UK Thermal Imaging Query

[M-B-Electrical-Services]

Hi guys,

Just a quick one regarding thermal imaging really.

My business has had numerous requests to carry out thermal imaging assessments at various locations throughout the UK.
This is not something I am familiar with so have used the excuse of being unavailable due to workload in order that I might have some time to do some research on the subject.
Aside from the TI equipment being excessively expensive, I cannot seem to find any accredited courses that would fit the bill.

Do any of you know the best equipment to purchase which is not too expensive and are there any thoughts on training (or lack of)?

Thanks!

Mike.

 

[Cbelectrics]

Thermal imaging in context to doing what exactly?

 

[SparkyChick]

If the assessments are in the context of the fixed electrical installation, then really you're going to be looking for loose connections and potentially overloaded cables and equipment. They'll simply appear hot on the imaging.

A good example is loose protective device terminations in distribution boards... we've all seen the results of thermal issues caused by poor connections... thermal imaging in this context aims to prevent that from happening by detecting loose connections before they are an issue using the slight increase in temperature a failing connection will cause.

There have certainly been many instances where I would have liked a decent thermal imager on site. And yes they are expensive, but if there's no one else doing it you could potentially increase the prices you charge and cover the equipment costs.

 

[SparkySy]

I have one of these below, it is basic but has been very useful for distribution and contactor panels!
It has found some poor connections where the terminal has not been tightened up onto the bus bar.

Amprobe IRC-120 Thermal Camera | Amprobe

Designed for the professional, rugged, point-and-shoot functionality provides a visual heat map for quick identification of temperature related issues.

www.amprobe.com

 

[littlespark]

I’m seriously thinking of investing in a thermal image camera… even a little one that plugs into a smart phone.

Can be used to find cold spots on walls to help with damp and mould…. Hotspots in electrical works as explained above…

But also to confirm that something that is designed to heat up, is.


I know someone that has one fitted to a drone, and he sends it up wind turbines.