PREDICTIVE MAINTENANCE OF LOW-VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS BY INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY

Abstract

Predictive maintenance continuously compares the trend of the values ​​of the most important functional parameters (electrical, thermal, mechanical) of an investigated equipment with their accepted limits (prescribed by the equipment manufacturer or imposed by the technological process). It mainly aims to anticipate, analyze, and even correct (if possible) the malfunctions before they manifest. This paper illustrated the performance of thermal imaging inspection by investigating the thermal stress of a power transformer substation that supplies both domestic and commercial consumers. The thermographic study targeted both the transformer together with its accessories, as well as its power panel located on its low voltage side. Additionally, the thermal stress of the power factor compensation battery was also analyzed. The results of the examination revealed the operation in nominal thermal parameters of the transformer, but also led to the identification of a weak connection of a fuse in the protection panel (on the low voltage side). The main characteristics of the infrared cameras are critically examined to properly establish their limits and performances. Thus, the adequate usage of the infrared camera and their associated software applications are also revealed underlining the major advantages and usefulness of the thermographic inspection.