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Infrared Consulting Services thermography inspection

Covers and Panels: Should They Really Be Taken Off?

One of the main challenges thermographers face during infrared electrical inspection procedures is having to remove protective covers and panels housing the equipment. While these panels are necessary from a work safety perspective, they can cause problems during a thermography inspection.

Infrared technology works more effectively when there is a clear line of sight to the equipment. When thermographers have to take the time to remove panels and covers, it takes them longer to complete the inspection, which costs businesses more money. But how necessary is it really to remove the panels? Read on to find out the importance.

Find The Source of the Problem

Thermographers can get decent images when they bypass the process of removing covers and panels. Essentially, they can see if there is a potential issue or temperature difference, but it’s virtually impossible to determine the source of the issue. Once the panel is removed for the thermographic imaging equipment, you will get a clearer picture of the underlying issue. This allows for more targeted repairs at the actual source of the problem rather than guessing at what may be causing the issue.

Cost Savings of Keeping Covers and Panels On

The longer an infrared electrical inspection takes, the more money a business will have to spend on the survey. This is one of the reasons why companies tell the thermographers to leave the covers and panels on and do the best job they can in order to save money. While this is a good short-term money-saving technique, it can obviously lead to much larger issues in the long-term.

Since thermographic imaging technology has to be clear of obstructions to be completely effective, thermographers can’t do their jobs to the best of their ability when they are limited. When companies choose to take shortcuts by not removing covers and panels, they are actually putting the business at greater risk of electrical fires and equipment malfunctions later on.

Precision and Accuracy is Critical With IR Testing

Every thermographic image taken by a thermographer tells a story about a particular piece of equipment. Without a clear view of the equipment, thermographers have to guess at what is happening in a certain situation. The main solution is to remove the covers and panels to ensure there are no obstructions so clear thermal imaging can be taken.

Another alternative businesses are choosing is to install infrared windows. These windows allow thermographers to do the most effective job without having to take the time to remove panels and covers. Companies will have to spend some money upfront to install the infrared windows, but the windows will pay for themselves over time after several inspections take place.

Infrared Consulting Services knows exactly how to be most efficient and effective when it comes to a thermography inspection. To learn more about how infrared technology works, or to book your inspection appointment, be sure to contact us.

IRTest infrared inspection services

How and Why to Utilize Infrared Technology With Your Construction Project

Infrared technology isn’t a new technology by any means, but it is fairly new to the construction industry. Detecting gas leaks, moisture leaks, mold and structural integrity are all ways infrared thermography can be beneficial for construction. Every company has safety procedures and protocols to follow, but it’s nearly impossible to detect every minor issue. That’s where the help of infrared cameras comes in. Not only will a company save their own man-hours, but they will also help increase productivity and prevent a potential disaster from occurring.

Uses For Infrared Technology in Construction

Infrared inspection services can detect problems before they occur. The technology can look at machines, electrical components, faulty materials and even the actual foundation of the project once it’s set. When the infrared cameras detect a potential problem, it’s better to fix the issue right then rather than waiting until a larger problem occurs. Since one issue could lead to bigger problems with construction, infrared technology has saved some projects.

Prevent Maintenance and Potential Disasters

With an infrared electrical inspection, you can more easily identify an issue before it becomes a costly repair. This could range from the machinery being used to the actual wiring of the building being constructed. As far as the machinery goes, there’s nothing worse than working on a big project and having a machine break down. Infrared inspections can sometimes prevent that from happening if conducted in a timely manner.

Re-Evaluate Procedures and Protocols

When you undergo infrared thermography inspections, you may be surprised at the results. The inspections can help companies identify problems that may be systemic rather than just an isolated issue. Of course, you won’t be able to tell the difference unless you conduct multiple inspections consistently.

When you have these inspections completed, you can more easily re-evaluate your procedures and protocols and target the issue more directly. You may need to focus on the preparation of the machinery and other equipment before you even get started. Preventing breakdowns and keeping the production moving are the two things infrared inspection services provide to help keep your business booming.

Whether you’ve considered hiring a professional to do infrared testing with your construction project or not, be sure to get in touch with us to learn about your options. Many companies are surprised at the results of the testing, but are appreciative since they generally identify issues before they become problematic and costly.

Locate potential problems with electrical thermography.

The Unseen Problems Your Infrared Electrical Inspection May Find

While heat is a good thing in the cold winter months, it may not always be positive for your business. For instance, improper wiring can cause electrical circuits to overheat, possibly causing a fire. Getting an infrared electrical inspection using electrical thermography can provide the information you need to  ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who works in your building.

Identify problem spots early with an infrared electrical inspection.

Infrared electrical inspection can identify problem spots early.

Bad Wiring

The problem with bad wiring is it isn’t always made evident by inconsistent lighting or electronic operations. Conducting a thermal imaging survey of your electrical systems can help identify problem areas so your electrician can resolve the issue before you experience major loss.

Roof Moisture

Roof moisture surveys are used by building and facility managers around the world in order to locate moisture trapped in the roofing assemblies of their properties, plants and factories. Infrared detection can be used on almost all types of low slope roofs. With this technology, imagers can detect differences in heat on the roof and easily pinpoint any uneven heat dissipation and retained moisture. This excess moisture could lead to future problems for your building’s roof, including collapse. If it’s time for your regular inspection, infrared testing can be performed identify wet insulation areas.

A thermal imaging survey is a great way to find hidden problems before they show themselves. By the time these issues become evident to the naked eye, serious damage has often occurred, which requires more expensive repairs. Whether you save your business from a fire due to bad wiring, curtail high gas or electric bills or prevent water damage, the cost of one of these inspections is well worth it to ensure your building is protected from damage.

If you’re looking for a company to perform electrical thermography in your place of business, contact us. We take pride in providing the assistance you need to identify hidden issues before they become expensive.