Thermal Survey

Thermal cameras are used to identify temperature differences in power sources which may need to be corrected or at least investigated further. Heat spots found from surveys can be caused by heat build and/or overload in circuits or equipment. Thermal surveys can also discover other issues that can reduce the life expectancy of electronic equipment or at worst, fire.

The survey helps identify issues that may lead to fires breaking out which in turn protects occupants from any harm. If the survey is unchecked or remedial work is not undertaken, the temperature can increase and cause damage to the power source which may lead to a fire.

Our engineers will give an honest and accurate reading and communicate the current situation of the power source and any future corrective work which needs to take place to preserve safe conditions.

Laws & Regulations

Electricity at Work Regulations Act 1989, Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and BS 7671 (IEE Wiring Regulations 17th Edition as amended) suggest that electrical infrastructure be regularly maintained and tested to ensure compliance with safety guidelines.

Benefits

• Performing a thermographic inspection will highlight problems with electrical infrastructure under load during the testing process as these areas will manifest as anomalous temperatures shown in the live image on the thermal imaging camera.

• We have engineers spread across the UK and five offices to ensure we are responsive to customer needs

Added Value

• A detailed report being produced by a trained professional demonstrates that reasonable steps have been taken to ensure your electrical infrastructure is of reasonable integrity. Additionally, it may satisfy your insurance company requirements for the fire prevention in electrical systems related scenarios.
• Our engineers are flexible with their work schedule and are able to work evenings and weekends to meet your schedules and to cause minimal disruption.

Tasks/Stages Involved

The thermal camera is applied to open switchyards, electrical panels, distribution boards, switches, tap offs, bus bars, and other electrical items.  Our inspections utilise load correction electrical formula that helps to assess electrical components.

Questions & Answers

What is infrared?

Infrared or infrared thermography (IR) is the science of infrared imaging. Thermographic cameras sense radiation in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum. Since infrared radiation is produced by all items based on their temperatures, thermography allows you to see the environment with or without visible illumination. The amount of radiation produced by an item rises with temperature; consequently, thermography allows you to see differences in temperature.

Why undertake a thermal survey?

Thermography is a technology that has been around for a long time, it has found many uses particularly with prearranged or preventative maintenance.

Thermography is at its best when the surveyed article is functioning under normal conditions which in turn negates the requirement to have a disruptive environment leading to inconvenience to the staff and others in the building.

When is it best used?

The best use of thermography is to offer a provisional non-disruptive examination of the electrical and mechanical installation. The Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE) endorse routine inspections to the electrical installation between the periodic examinations.

Can the thermal survey only be undertaken at night?

The thermal survey can take place any time of the day even though you may think that the external heat of the sun may affect the thermal camera.

How do I know if there is an issue with the thermal survey?

The thermal camera will reveal red spots if there is a severe problem which means that the appliance is overheating which could lead to a fire. On the other hand, if darker colours are identified, it means that the appliance is working correctly.

Will this service disrupt the running of my business?

This is possible; however, it depends on which services are carried out during the visit and the condition of the electrical circuits and appliances that are being serviced. For example, a faulty wire that is being repaired may require the electrics being turned off. Our engineers are aware that businesses need to run as normal, therefore they will try and prevent disruption wherever they can.