Thermography is a technique that produces images of the heat distribution over a surface. Thermography, also called thermal imaging, detects areas of concentrated heating or heat leakage within electrical equipment. Thermography detects the infrared energy emitted by electrical circuits or components through which an electric current passes, such as wires, cables, transformers, contactors, electric motors, breakers, and more. This infrared energy is then converted into temperature readings. The higher the temperature of the equipment conducting an electric current, the higher the level of detected infrared energy.

Electrical systems can pose safety risks and it is important to ensure electrical equipment remains in good working order. Many company fires have been attributed to failures of aging electrical panels where abnormal heat sources may have been detectable via thermography. On a smaller scale, undetected electrical failures can lead to power outages or reduced efficiency of manufacturing equipment. However, these issues can be prevented or identified early through regular thermography inspections. As overheating is a common cause of electrical circuit problems, inspecting panels and electrical components like electric motors is advised to identify any heating sources that may require remediation. It is better to identify risks proactively than react to issues. Thermography is even recommended by insurers as part of preventative maintenance programs.

Thermography offers several key benefits for electrical equipment maintenance and safety. Infrared thermography allows organizations to proactively monitor equipment for potential issues, helping ensure continued safe and reliable operations. It enables preemptive repairs that avoid costly emergency situations from unexpected failures. Proactive maintenance through thermography also reduces fire risks, supporting lower insurance costs by conforming to insurer recommendations. Finally, thermography saves both time and energy for facilities teams by prioritizing corrective work identified in preventive maintenance planning.