Seeing the Invisible: The Power of Infrared Scans in Industrial Facilities
Introduction
When it comes to maintaining industrial facilities, some of the most dangerous problems are the ones you can’t see. Infrared scans, often referred to as thermographic inspections, are like X-ray vision for your equipment, revealing hidden issues before they turn into costly failures. From detecting hot spots in electrical components to identifying insulation deficiencies, infrared scans can be a game-changer for your facility’s safety and efficiency. Let’s explore the power of infrared scans and how they can save you time, money, and headaches.
What Infrared Scans Detect: Catching Problems Before They Heat Up
Infrared scans use thermal imaging to detect heat anomalies in your equipment and systems. These anomalies often indicate underlying problems such as electrical faults, overloaded circuits, or failing components. For example, a loose connection in an electrical panel may not be visible to the naked eye, but it can generate heat that, if left unchecked, could lead to equipment failure or even a fire.
In fact, a study by the Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI) found that facilities using infrared scanning as part of their preventive maintenance programs reduced their equipment failures by 75%, leading to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
Financial Impact: Heating Up Your Savings
Addressing issues detected by infrared scans can lead to substantial savings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), infrared scanning can reduce maintenance costs by 25-30% and lower energy consumption by up to 10%. For example, a major automotive manufacturer in the Midwest implemented a rigorous infrared scanning program, which helped them identify and resolve issues that could have led to over $250,000 in potential damages and downtime.
Case Study: A Hot Solution for a Cold Storage Facility
One well-documented case involves Americold, a leading cold storage provider. Americold utilized infrared scanning to identify multiple electrical issues in their facilities, including overloaded circuits and deteriorating insulation. After making the necessary repairs, they saw a significant reduction in energy costs and virtually eliminated unexpected equipment failures, contributing to their overall operational efficiency and cost savings.
Conclusion: Keep Your Cool with Infrared Scans
Infrared scans are an essential tool for maintaining industrial facilities, allowing you to see problems before they become costly failures. By incorporating regular thermographic inspections into your maintenance routine, you can improve safety, reduce downtime, and save on energy costs.
At Cardinal Power, our team is staffed with certified Level 1 Thermographers who are experts in detecting and diagnosing issues using advanced infrared technology. We’d be happy to conduct an infrared scan of your facility to help you uncover hidden problems and optimize your operations. So why wait until things heat up? Keep your facility running smoothly with the power of infrared technology and the expertise of Cardinal Power.