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FAQs about Infrared Electrical Surveys

– How does an Infrared Electrical System work?
– What electrical equipment should be covered in an inspection?
– Do electrical panels need to be opened?
– How to prepare for an Infrared Electrical Survey?
– What safety requirements apply to Infrared Electrical System Surveys?
– What standards apply to Infrared Electrical System Surveys?
– What should your report include?
– Why should you use Jersey Infrared Consultants?

How does an Infrared Electrical System Survey work?

Infrared thermography is a form of non-contact, non-destructive testing used to detect and document thermal patterns and associated temperatures of electrical system components. Our high resolution infrared imaging radiometers detect infrared energy emitted from an object and convert it into an image which is displayed on a monitor screen.

When a component with an unusual temperature is located, the temperature of the problem area is recorded along with the thermal image. The thermogram, control photograph and problem information are compiled into a report that is available in hardcopy and digital formats.
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What electrical equipment should be covered in an inspection?

When planning your Infrared Electrical System Survey, it is important to consider all the electrical equipment in your facility. An incident in a small lighting panel may affect the ability to use a portion of your facility or for office staff to function. Click here for a Suggested List of Electrical Equipment.
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Do electrical panels need to be opened?

Infrared imagers detect thermal patterns on the surface of an object; a direct line of sight is required for all infrared imagers. If an Infrared Electrical System Survey is performed with panel covers in place and a thermal anomaly is detected, it will not be possible to know exactly which component of the electrical equipment has the highest temperature. Also, the temperature of the problem component must be high enough to heat the panel. By removing panel covers, individual components can be inspected and problems detected earlier. If the situation prevents the opening of covers, IR Windows can be installed.
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How do I prepare for an Infrared Electrical Survey?

Proper preparation for an upcoming Infrared Electrical System Survey can help keep costs to a minimum and provide better data. Be sure qualified manpower is available (beware of vacation and training assignments); have keys and access codes for all secured areas; and notify tenants or key personnel as appropriate.

The order in which equipment is surveyed, otherwise known as Routes, should take into account the logistics of moving from location to location and any changes in load demands occurring during the day. A list from a previous Infrared Electrical Survey can be used as a guide.
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What safety requirements apply to Infrared Electrical System Surveys?

Infrared Thermographers will need to be aware of and comply with numerous safety requirements. These may include OSHA and Site Specific Regulations, in addition to the National Fire Protection Association document, NFPA 70E.

NFPA 70E specifically addresses thermography as a task.  Table 130.7(C)(9) Hazard Risk Category Classifications provides Hazard/Risk categories ranging from 0 to 3 depending upon the type of equipment being inspected.

All Jersey Infrared Consultants personnel are equipped with the proper PPE equipment. For details or to discuss your facility’s specific concerns, please contact us.
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What standards apply to Infrared Electrical System Surveys?

Standards that apply to Infrared Electrical System Surveys are authored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA), and Infraspection Institute. They cover topics including procedures, applications, certification of personnel, equipment use and performance standards, and safety. Following these standards will help ensure quality results from your Infrared Electrical System Survey. A list of standards followed by Jersey Infrared Consultants can be found at Standards.
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What should your report include?

Reports should be clear, easy-to-understand, and available in written and/or digital formats. The report will include the following sections:

• Introduction covers the procedures followed and provides information to assist understanding the report including priority assessment for problems.

• Thermographers Comments will discuss the areas surveyed, number of problems identified and special notation of any serious problems.

• Database provides a detailed list of all equipment surveyed, including location, type of equipment, identification, status at the time of the survey, and notation of problems along with their severity.

• Problems should be documented with a Thermogram, control photograph with an indication of the problem area, and a description that includes the following information:

  • Equipment name and location
  • Ambient temperature (°C and/or °F)Black and white thermogram of possible loose connectionControl photo of equipment shown in thermograpmsColor thermogram of possible loose connection
  • Temperature rise over similar equipment (°C and/or °F)
  • Ammeter readings (where appropriate)
  • Detailed comments concerning the problem

• Avoided Cost Analysis, based on insurance industry statistics, provides documentation of the potential cost savings associated with your specific survey.
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Why should you use Jersey Infrared Consultants?

The high standards we set for service and reliability have earned us a reputation for excellence. All Infrared Electrical System Surveys are performed by Infraspection Institute Certified Infrared Thermographers® using state-of-the-art equipment with direct traceability to the National Institute of Standards and Technology. All thermographers wear the appropriate PPE clothing.

Jersey Infrared Consultants’ safety compliance, background check, and drug screening programs are a part of our commitment to providing an unequaled level of client care and quality service.  Our reports are clear, easy-to-understand, and comprehensive. They are delivered in a timely fashion in both written and electronic formats.

Our staff regularly conducts training classes, publishes technical articles, and participates in continuing education, enabling us to remain THE firm to hire for your Infrared Electrical System Survey.