What Is Electrical Thermal Imaging?

For example, one connection that appears warmer than comparable connections deserves attention, but the surveyor still needs to consider their respective loads. The image should lead to a reasoned recommendation rather than an automatic instruction to replace the equipment.

Fluke explains that thermal cameras cannot see through electrical cabinets or solid metal bus trays. Access, viewing position and the surfaces visible to the camera determine what can be examined. Reflections and surface properties affect interpretation. An inaccessible component should be recorded as outside the inspection, rather than quietly treated as satisfactory.

A useful report identifies each surveyed asset and includes the thermal image, a corresponding ordinary photograph where useful, operating conditions, observations and recommended action. It should distinguish urgent concerns from planned investigation and record equipment that could not be assessed.

Allocate each recommendation to an owner and retain the investigation result. If a connection is repaired, a later comparison under suitable operating conditions can help assess whether the unusual heating has been resolved. Keep the repair record alongside the original finding so future reviewers understand the history.