Infrared Detection of Hot Spots in Energized Electrical Equipment

An important aspect of plant operation is preventive maintenance of electrical apparatus. Local thermal overloads or bad electrical connections often appear as localized hot spots in energized electrical equipment. A survey of the use of infrared detection systems for location of such hot spots is presented. A tutorial introduction to infrared detection and imaging systems is given with emphasis on the requirements imposed by this particular application. Following this, a survey of commercially available systems suitable for remote detection of hot spots is presented. Finally, the highlights of new developments in infrared technology are discussed.