Infrared Inspection

Infrared (IR) Inspection is a diagnostic tool that can be used to help identify conditions that cause outages and equipment damage.   IR testing is based on the fact that a good structural bond is a good thermal bond.  In other words, loose connections cause heat.  Because nearly all electrical components get hot before failure, IR inspections are a safe and cost-effective way for utilities to understand the operating condition of assets and implement or compliment a predictive maintenance strategy. 

 A properly executed IR inspection program can help utilities achieve safety and reliability goals by:

• Aiding in the prevention of power interruptions and unscheduled outages
• Helping to protect expensive equipment
• Providing cost-effective maintenance
• Enhancing critical circuit inspections
• Reducing potential safety hazards

Using high-resolution IR camera technology, Osmose technicians can quickly and accurately scan power lines and associated equipment.  One of our Level III Thermographers will provide detailed, customized reports with digital images that identify hotspots which will assist utilities in eliminating or minimizing potential infrastructure problems that exist.  Additionally, Osmose can provide the inspection data in a number of other formats that can be used to feed various target systems of utilities.

Common electrical components inspected with IR imaging include:

Osmose utilizes high resolution P-Series cameras and reporting software from FLIR Systems for imaging, analysis and reporting of thermal anomalies.  We specialize in the inspection of overhead (OH) and underground (UG) distribution, transmission and substation systems for utility customers.

For more information on IR inspections, please contact Michael Dodge at 716-319-3594 or mdodge@osmose.com.