Image A: Starting with the main disconnect on the right side of the image and moving left, we can easily see thermal anomalies associated with potential electrical issues. NFPA Standards have been updated knowing that these issues are commonplace in manufacturing facilities, and very few have a proper IR program.
Thermal imaging is highly effective for electrical maintenance due to the ability to detect and visualize temperature differences. Technicians can identify potential issues and anomalies that may not be visible otherwise through early heat detection for proactive maintenance and prevention of costly shutdowns, failures, or accidents.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recently released the updated 2023 70B Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance. Imaging technology has come a long way since the standard update in 2010.
With the lower cost of thermal imaging equipment and access to meaningful education in thermal imaging, you should recognize the need to implement this technology into your electrical maintenance program instead of just a camera-on-a-shelf program typically seen in maintenance programs today.
Program implementation can be overwhelming for any company, regardless of size.
- What camera do we buy?
- How do we get training on what to scan and when to scan it?
- Who will oversee predictive thermal imaging scans?
- How do we write a report to adhere to the new standard?
The most notable revision to the standard regarding the use of thermography is Section 7.4.1, updated from “recommended” to “shall be used.” Rather you contract your scheduled thermal imaging scans to an independent third party or follow the standard internally if a work-related injury or death results from an electrical issue, the new standard is enforceable by OSHA.
Section 8.4.1 of NFPA 70B focuses on the requirements for establishing an electrical preventive maintenance program by emphasizing the importance of implementing a structured and comprehensive approach to maintaining electrical equipment to prevent failures and fires, ensure safety, and maximize equipment reliability.
Having an Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) Coordinator, as per NFPA 70B, offers numerous benefits, including compliance with regulations, enhanced safety, improved equipment reliability, cost savings, increased efficiency, proper documentation, and access to expert knowledge. The advantages contribute to a more reliable and secure electrical infrastructure, reducing the risk of accidents, minimizing downtime, and optimizing organizational performance.
Image B: This image compares connection temperatures at the terminals for the facility’s main transformers. If you have issues here, there are certainly issues inside the facility. The transformer on the left has a temperature of 270.7o F and the transformer on the right was at 178.3o F, which is more than a 92o F difference and should be investigated immediately.
Predictive thermal imaging maintenance involves creating a systematic approach to maintaining, inspecting, and testing electrical equipment. NFPA 70B 4.3.1 emphasizes the importance of developing a maintenance schedule based on manufacturers’ recommendations, industry standards, and the specific requirements of the equipment in question. It also stresses the need to consider factors such as equipment criticality, environmental conditions, and historical data.
By adhering to NFPA 70B 4.3.1, organizations can establish a proactive maintenance strategy to ensure the electrical equipment remains reliable and functions optimally. The
future of electrical maintenance has arrived.
- Do you know the effectiveness of your thermal imaging electrical maintenance program?
- Do you know how often your predictive maintenance scans are documented?
n summary, when the EMP Coordinator implements thermal imaging as practical for electrical maintenance, it enables early fault detection, supports preventive maintenance, and
helps save costs. By harnessing the power of thermal imaging technology, maintenance teams can ensure the reliability, safety, and optimal performance of electrical systems.
If you want more information, please contact us, and let’s talk further about developing your program.