Infrared Window FAQs

– What is an IR Window?
– How do IR Windows Work?
– Are Ports and Grill Different from IR Windows?
– What are the Different Types of IR Windows?
– What Equipment is Suited for IR Windows?
– Where Should IR Windows be Placed?
– Who Should Install IR Windows?
– How Can Jersey Infrared Consultants Help?

What is an IR Window?

There are many FAQs when discussing Infrared Windows, starting with what an IR Window actually is. An infrared window is an engineered optic designed to permit infrared inspections of electrical components located within switchgear enclosures. Infrared windows consist of a metal or plastic frame that supports an infrared transmissive optic. Infrared windows usually have a protective cover to protect the optic when they are not in use. Depending upon the window, optics may be made from crystal or polymer material.
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How do IR Windows Work?

Because thermal imagers cannot see through solid materials, switchgear panel covers must be opened or removed to afford line-of-sight access to subject components. In most cases, panel cover removal and replacement is the most labor intensive aspect of an infrared inspection. Installed at strategic locations on switchgear enclosures, IR windows permit infrared inspections to be conducted without having to open or remove panel covers, thereby saving time and money and improving safety.
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Are Ports and Grill Different from IR Windows?

Although many refer to ports and grills as ‘windows’, there are key differences. An infrared port consists of a metal or plastic frame that has a single, small diameter opening (< 0.5 inches) to permit viewing of components located within switchgear enclosures. Due to their small diameter opening, ports usually require the use of special wide angle or ‘fisheye’ lenses with a thermal imager designed to accept such lenses.

Grills are similar to ports; however, they are usually larger in overall diameter and contain a metal plate containing multiple small diameter openings. Unlike windows, ports and grills are not constructed with infrared transmissive optics and may also serve as listening points for passive ultrasound instruments.
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What are the Different Types of IR Windows?

IR windows can be generally grouped by the material used for their optics – crystal or polymer. The choice of material is influenced by many factors including, but not limited to: application, environment, and cost. IR windows constructed with crystal are commonly used in applications with high ambient temperatures or extreme environmental issues. Polymer windows are well-suited for a broad range of applications, are less fragile than crystal windows, and less expensive. Polymer windows can also be manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes that are not possible with crystal.
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What Equipment is Suited for IR Windows?

Ideally, all electrical enclosures containing components that present hazards due to electric shock or arc flash should be fitted with IR windows provided that they are sufficiently deep to permit thermal imaging of the components contained therein. Typical equipment includes, but is not limited to: high, medium, and low voltage switchgear cabinets, air switch cubicles, medium voltage motor controllers, and dry-type transformer enclosures.
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Where Should IR Windows be Placed?

Proper placement of infrared windows is a critical consideration that goes beyond visual aesthetics of the final installation. To maximize effectiveness, window placement must take into account several factors including location of components within enclosures, internal obstacles such as arc barriers, and required field of view. Working with a professional installer or thermographer who is familiar with the subject electrical devices will often yield the best results for window placement.
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Who Should Install IR Windows?

Because infrared window installations require modifying electrical enclosures, qualified electricians who understand proper window placement are often the best choice. When uncertain of correct window placement, electricians may opt to work with an experienced thermographer to help with window siting.
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How Can Jersey Infrared Consultants Help?

With over 30 years experience in thermal imaging, Jersey Infrared Consultants are uniquely qualified to answer your questions related to infrared windows. We offer the widest selection of infrared windows and ports and can provide custom window solutions for any application. Jersey Infrared Consultants can also provide the expertise necessary to ensure the safe and successful installation of your IR windows.
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