Temperature analysis of switch for changing loads using infrared thermography

Abstract

Temperature measurement with the help of Infrared thermography is often used for predictive maintenance programs to compute the severity of a problem. One of the most important factors in assessing any electrical system or equipment's condition is its temperature. However, the temperature measurement alone is not sufficient but needs a proper profiling for correct diagnosis or analysis. The amount of load current and the time for which the current passes through the conductor can have an extreme effect on the temperature of the equipment or its component. Taking into account and emphasizing on the additional data during the diagnosis is very necessary for obtaining fruitful results. The main aim of this paper is to demonstrate the relationship between load, time and temperature of a component, which is, in this case, a normal one-way switch. Thermographic images were captured at certain time intervals by using an infrared camera. Relationships were developed for the switch, and it is found that these are based mainly on the convective as well as radiative heat losses through the switch. Heating curves are obtained at different load for particular time periods.