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Electrical switchgear is the backbone of any industrial setting. A well-functioning switchgear ensures that there’s less downtime because of electrical fault. A switchgear has passive and active components - and together these components protect the electrical system in case of an electrical fault occurs. To ensure that your switchgear is doing its job properly, regular maintenance is necessary. Our experts at RR Switchgear, a leading switchgear manufacturer, will share with you insights on infrared inspection --- that helps to identify stressed elements of the electrical switchgear before they break down or cause a fire:

What is the purpose of infrared inspection? Infrared inspection or thermal imaging is done to identify loose bus connections. This gives you the opportunity to identify and solve the problem before it causes any serious problem or damage. Unexpected breakdowns in electrical supply result in unnecessary downtime that can not just be inconvenient but also costly. The infrared inspection helps in valuable risk assessment. It helps identify the following problems:

• Loose or corroded electrical connections
• electrical imbalance and overloads
• Hot spots
• Overloaded cables
• Overloaded fuses or breakers
• Imminent motor or conveyor bearing failure
• Motor windings overheating
• Overheating in distribution equipment
• Phase load imbalance
• Insulation breakdown
• Thermal loss
• Damp ingress

How does infrared imaging work? An infrared camera is used for looking at the energized systems and providing a thermal image that identifies a potential problem. Using this method one can measure the temperature differences between potentially troubling areas and a reference area. The inspection provides comprehensive reports detailing deficient areas with images and recommended actions. The infrared imaging can be used for both medium-voltage and low-voltage switchgear as part of predictive maintenance. Thermal imaging for switchgears should be done on an annual basis.

What are the benefits of infrared inspection? Infrared inspection is quite useful and here are some of its benefits:

• Reduces the risk of an electrical fire
• Reducing chances of an unplanned electrical outage
• Identify problematic areas for planned maintenance
• Reduces risk of equipment failure
• Checks if everything is properly installed and not damaged
• Cost-effective way to avoid downtime

If you are looking for switchgear for your industrial facility, explore our models, here. Our switchgears are designed to provide optimum protection to the overall electrical system.