Power Transmission Line Inspections – Increase reliability of distribution networks
The challenges
If a power transmission line overheats and fails, it can be devastating to the utility. A widespread outage might disrupt power to thousands of customers, and the cost to repair or replace equipment is expensive. An overheating transformer might be evidence of an improper machinery condition, progressive deterioration of the electrical isolation or machinery elements, or bad operating parameters, such as current, voltage, and temperature. With so many possible sources of the problem, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause.
Your Solution
Temperature is a key element in ensuring the working status of distribution transformers. Regular temperature monitoring using advanced diagnostic thermal imaging cameras can help you catch impending failures before they occur. By using FLIR handheld thermal cameras, you can easily inspect and monitor the temperature distribution on the outside surface of each transformer. It will show you what the naked eye cannot see – hot spots that indicate overheating parts – so you know where to investigate further.
The high-performance FLIR T540 is an ideal solution to help you find hidden signs of electrical resistance and mechanical wear, so you can begin repairs immediately. The FLIR T540 features options with a 24° or 45° lens, which will give you a larger field of view when you have limited space in front of your transformers. This thermal camera can measure temperatures up to 1500°C and it provides 464 x 348 thermal resolution for superior image quality and clarity.
Advantages
- No need to take the electrical installation out of service since it can be used during normal operating conditions.
- It is a non-contact and a non-destructive test method, used from a safe distance.
- It gives a visual picture of the condition of the installation and its components.
- The results are available in real-time and there is little, or no processing needed.
- IR cameras are relatively easy to use.
- It can detect conditions and defects before they become serious problems.
- Large electrical cabinets and whole electrical installations can be quickly scanned.
- The exact location of the potential problematic point can be easily determined.
The Outcome
Repairing or replacing a transformer is expensive. A thermal camera pays for itself when you consider the money saved by having the ability to fix a problem before it results in a shutdown. Through regular thermal inspections, you can rapidly detect and locate overheating areas on the surface of a transformer or hot spots on electrical connections. Once you determine that something is overheating you can investigate further, such as with ultrasonic, vibration, or oil analysis. The benefits of catching hot spots early include extending the life of otherwise well-functioning equipment; prevention of equipment failures that could lead to widespread outages, reduction of costs through maintenance as opposed to replacement of damaged equipment, and improved safety by reducing the risk of fires or explosions that may result from failures.
Learn more:
https://youtu.be/bgstofOkpHo- FLIR T Series preview