Infrared Electrical Scan: What to Expect

Also known as electrical thermal imaging, infrared electrical scanning is an increasingly popular technology for ensuring electrical safety. This non-invasive diagnostic tool detects issues in electrical systems before they become critical problems. It offers a proactive approach to maintenance that can save time, money and potentially prevent hazardous situations.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about infrared electrical scanning, and how it can help to keep your facilities and staff safe from harm.

How does infrared electrical scanning work?

At its core, infrared electrical scanning uses thermal imaging cameras to detect heat patterns emitted by electrical systems. These cameras capture infrared radiation, which is invisible to the naked eye, and convert it into visual images that highlight temperature variations.

Electrical components operating normally have a specific thermal signature, while anomalies such as hotspots, indicate potential issues. These are typically dangers such as overloaded circuits, loose connections or failing components. While these are usually undetectable without infrared scanning, they can potentially cause electrical fires or shocks.

The process: what to expect

Pre-inspection preparation

Before the scan, it’s important to ensure all electrical systems are operational and under normal load conditions. This helps provide an accurate picture of how the system behaves in typical day-to-day use. A technician may need to access various parts of your building to scan electrical panels, distribution boards and other critical components.

Scanning

A qualified technician conducts the scan using a handheld thermal imaging camera. While you could do the scan yourself by renting a camera, we recommend using a qualified technician. The process is non-intrusive and can often be completed without interrupting the regular operations of your place of work. The technician systematically scans all relevant electrical components, including circuit breakers, transformers and switchgear. The thermal imaging camera will then reveal any abnormal heat patterns.

Analysis

Crucially, a technician can analyse the thermal images. They look for irregularities in the heat patterns, such as hotspots that could indicate potential problems. This analysis helps identify issues like:

• Overloaded circuits – Excessive current flow can cause components to overheat.
• Loose connections – Poor connections can increase resistance and heat.
• Worn components – Ageing parts may fail under load, generating abnormal heat.
• Imbalance loads – Uneven distribution of electrical load can cause certain areas to overheat.

Reporting

After the scan and analysis, a technician will compile a detailed report. This report typically includes:

• Thermal images – Visual evidence of any detected issues.
• Descriptions of findings – Written explanations of any problems identified.
• Recommendations – Detailed suggestions for rectifying issues, such as tightening connections, balancing loads or replacing faulty components.

Follow-up

Based on the report, you can take informed steps to address any problems. Make sure to schedule a follow-up scan soon after so you can monitor the condition of electrical systems and check that remedial work has been effective.

What are the benefits of infrared electrical scanning?

The advantages of incorporating infrared electrical scans into your maintenance routine are substantial:

• Early detection – Scanning helps to identify issues before they cause costly repairs and downtime.
• Safety – It reduces the risk of electrical fires and failures and improves the overall safety of your premises.
• Efficiency – Ensuring that electrical systems operate optimally can improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs.
• Compliance – In the UK, adhering to electrical safety regulations is crucial. Infrared scanning helps your workplace to comply with important standards and regulations.

Stay compliant and safe with Volta Compliance

Infrared electrical scanning is hugely valuable for maintaining the safety and compliance of any facility. It’s important to remember that this is not just a one-time solution, but something you need to monitor frequently. Regular thermal imaging scans will help detect potential issues and prevent them from becoming more serious problems.

At Volta Compliance, we offer thermal imaging as either a stand-alone service or as part of a comprehensive ongoing maintenance package. By choosing our services, you can ensure that your workplace remains safe, efficient and compliant with all relevant regulations.

For availability and pricing, contact us today to get your quote. You can email [email protected] or call 0113 436 0402.