Thermal Imaging

Infrared cameras, also called thermal imagers, are useful for troubleshooting motor problems as well as for monitoring motor condition for preventative maintenance in power generation, manufacturing, and commercial plants. Infrared images reveal a motor’s heat signature and that can tell you a lot about its condition. Indeed, the condition of motors can play an important role in keeping plants up and running and keeping operating costs down.

When you are working with low electrical loads, the indications of a problem may be subtle. Thus, a minimum of 40% of design load is recommended (National Fire Protection Association NFPA 70B), and the higher the load, the better. When inspecting in low load situations, be sure to note all possible problems, even if they reflect only a small temperature difference. As a load increases, the temperature will increase too and if a problem exists, expect greater temperature differences at higher loads.