You and IR, Part 6

Are you fully exploiting thermographic technology? In case you’re not aware, here is a partial list of uses:

• Monitor transformers. For dry types, check the vent. For oil-filled types, check the reservoir. For both, check the connections.
• See emerging breaker problems. Breaker testing is essential, but frequency is low because testing requires removing breakers from service. Fill the "condition knowledge gap" with thermographic testing.
• Motors. Problems with windings, bearings, vents, connections, and gear boxes show up on thermographic images.

A huge advantage of thermography is the speed at which you can do it. For example, scanning an entire panel at once with a thermographic camera takes much less time than individually testing breakers.