Rom-Control provides Thermographic Services
Infrared thermography is the process of using a thermal imager to detect heat radiation coming from an object or system, converting it to a temperature map image so that the temperature distribution can be shown graphically. Analysis of this image provides valuable information regarding the condition of the system itself and can include the overall facility associated with the system. Used in many industries to significantly reduce energy loss, Rom-Control are requested to use this analysis tool as a preventative maintenance technique for the early detection of future control system breakdowns.
Interpreting the Thermal Image
Infrared thermography analysis is the interpretation of temperature differentials. It is not only just science but also an art which means that it requires experience and skill to interpret it correctly. In the hands of an experienced and fully trained technician, a thermal image can provide a wealth of information about the condition of the equipment including identification of current and future faults before they occur, cause of a potential fault, and can provide issues in associated machinery. Performed correctly, interpretation of the thermal image will ensure minimal energy for production, significantly improve overall efficiency, productivity, and safety in your facility.
Why use Thermography?
Infrared thermography is non-destructive and requires no physical contact with the inspected object. There is no interruption to production or the operation staff and the passive thermal imagers emit no visual or radiation distractions.
Thermography is used as part of predictive and diagnostic maintenance procedures by many industries as it helps to provide substantial performance improvements, as well as substantial cost savings.
Importance of Infrared Thermography Inspections
Electrical infrastructure should be regularly maintained and tested to ensure compliance with safety guidelines. Failures with electrical systems can cause major breakdowns, loss of earnings, and significant cost to repair.
From a fire risk perspective alone, the statistics from the NFPA “Fires in US Industrial or Manufacturing Properties” have shown;
- Between 2011 and 2015, municipal fire departments in the U.S. responded to an estimated average of 37,910 fires at industrial or manufacturing properties each year, with annual losses from these fires estimated at 16 civilian deaths, 273 civilian injures, and $1.2 billion in direct property damage.
- Electrical distribution and lighting equipment was the leading cause of structure fires in industrial properties, accounting for 24% of the total, while heating was the leading cause of structure fires in manufacturing facilities, accounting for 15% of the total.
- Vehicle fires accounted for an estimated average of 9% of industrial and manufacturing property fires) each year, with losses estimated at 6 civilian deaths, 17 civilian injuries and $125 million in direct property damage each year.
From a production point of view, electrical systems can have sudden faults and failures without warning. Although not visible to the human eye many equipment failures is often preceded by operating under increased temperature for a considerable period before failing completely. If this gradual increase in temperature is detected early then the problem could be corrected before a catastrophic failure occurs.
Even more serious issue is that such failures can result in workers to be exposed to bare live electrical points, making them susceptible to an electric shock which may result in severe injury or even death. Detection of high-resistance connections and repairing them early reduces the likelihood of damage to the electrical wires and related components.
There has never been a better time to capitalize on the benefits of instituting an infrared inspection program for your control system.
Rom Control has several years of experience performing thermography on electronic and electrical systems in commercial, industrial, manufacturing facilities in Australia. If you require expert advice regarding any aspect of thermography for your electrical, electronic and control systems please contact Michael at Rom Control or phoning us on 1300 766 287.
We have the right solution for you.