Thermal imaging with thermal cameras by Teledyne Flir, such as the Flir E95, represents a valid help in electrical inspections in the oil and gas industry in order to prevent distribution system failure and break-down.
When electrical connections and components break down unexpectedly, the result may be unplanned downtime, costly repairs, and production loss. There’s also an increased risk of fire due to electrical short-circuits or cable burning. That’s why it’s important to perform routine checks to ensure that the electrical distribution system is in proper working order, including inspection of busbars, circuit breakers, fuses and switchboards. Electrical distribution boards are typically housed inside cabinet enclosures, making them difficult to inspect for impending failures.
Through regular thermal inspections, maintenance professionals can quickly detect and locate temperature issues (hot spots) on electrical components and equipment. Loose connections, bad contact, fuse issues, unbalanced loads, and stressed earth leakage can be discovered using a thermal imager, and thus improving safety by reducing risk of electrical fire; avoiding unexpected breakdowns; reducing risk of unplanned electrical outages; and organizing planned repairs and preventive maintenance.