For the past three decades, MIDWEST has provided Infrared Scanning (aka Thermographic Scanning) services, the single most powerful tool in the electrical maintenance field.
By scanning for hot spots and abnormal heating patterns, we are able to locate and repair defects before they lead to equipment failure, personal injury, or unscheduled power outages.
To state it technically, our Thermographers are trained to locate a potential problem by detecting the relative heat differential in current carrying equipment and then render a judgment as to what that data means.
From locating roof leaks, building heat loss, flaws in induction heating equipment to checking steam traps, Infrared Scanning has many uses. At the exotic end of the spectrum, MIDWEST has even used infrared to scan race car tires and injured legs of horses.
In conjunction with Infrared Scanning, MIDWEST has the capability to repair defective equipment and to perform additional engineering services such as load analysis, harmonic analysis, voltage drop analysis, and forensic analysis of damaged equipment.
At the end of the day, there simply is no substitute for this highly effective maintenance tool.
Click on question marks below to get answers to these frequently-asked questions.
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How long does it take to Infrared Scan my facility?
Since the camera scans in real time, the scanning of equipment moves along at a fairly good clip. A particular device is scanned in seconds rather than minutes. More time is required when electrical panels need to be opened or covers removed. Most Infrared Scanning projects take one day.
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When is it best to perform an Infrared Scan of a facility?
Potential problems show up best while electrical equipment is operating under full load.
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How will I be able to know which devices show potential problems and may need corrective action?
A full infrared report is submitted to the customer after the infrared scan is completed. The report contains visible light and infrared pictures of potential problems along with a narrative description of equipment locations, analysis of the problems detected and recommendations for corrective action.
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Can some problems be fixed on the spot while other equipment is still being scanned?
Yes. For example, in some cases involving lighting panel breakers, if the problem is due to a loose connection of the wire to the breaker, it is not unusual to be able to tighten the connection on the spot. Tightening the connection screw even a quarter turn can often be enough to resolve the problem. But be careful! Use proper protective clothing! Do not repair equipment while energized.
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How will I know, after taking corrective action, whether or not the problem has been resolved?
A rescan of the problem, after corrective action has been taken, will confirm the effectiveness of the fix.
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