Thermal imagers in the energy distribution sector

Australia’s growing population and demand for energy resources means that any delays to maintenance and servicing can leave many houses and businesses without power.

This serves as a warning to the energy generation and distribution industry that these processes need to be brought up to speed, especially as customers expect these tasks be carried out in a timely manner.

As there is greater demand on the grid itself, the emphasis on inspections and checks is also heightened. If issues can be spotted before they become a larger problem – consumers and businesses are left happy.

One way that this can be achieved is through the use of thermal imaging cameras. Testo have a wide range of imagers available for use in the energy sector that can lift productivity and also increase safety.

High-resolution focus

One feature of thermal imagers lends itself to the complex nature of energy generation and distribution – long-range focus. Many top-of-the-line camcorders and cameras have the ability to produce excellent high-resolution imagers from a considerable distance away.

It is important to note that wear and fatigue issues along power lines or other energy infrastructure is often reflected in a change of temperature. This means irregularities or hotspots can be identified from a distance and preparations can be made to fix them.

Testo thermal imagers feature an optional telephoto lens which can measure objects 15m away down to 19mm in size. It is also possible to detect hotspots at a size of around 6mm.

By using a thermal imaging camera to detect problems, it can save professionals having to run lengthy tests or even risk shutting down the power system entirely – something which has to be avoided at all costs.

Keeping workers safe

Taking the risk out of an occupation is an objective that all businesses should strive for and what thermal imagers can offer. Eliminating the need for workers to scale dangerous platforms or approach high-voltage systems, employees can analyse temperature increases from a safe distance and without needing to touch the infrastructure.

If a problem is spotted through the thermal imaging camera, workers can then use the data collected to make the next decision. This means the workplace is safer and energy distribution is assured on a permanent basis.

For more information about thermal imagers and how they can be effectively utilised in the energy sector, contact Testo today for a comprehensive breakdown of available models.