iRed Ltd October 2013 Case Study

How a Thermal Imaging Survey Averted a Disaster for a

Major Supermarket Chain

Not too long ago we were asked to undertake electrical thermographic surveys for a
major supermarket chain. These surveys consisted of inspecting the electrical
distribution boards and equipment that keep the stores operational. To conduct a
survey the Thermographer used a thermal imaging camera to inspect the electrical
equipment for any anomalous temperature readings that can be associated with faulty
connections, damaged fuses or overloaded circuits.

The first few electrical inspections found nothing at fault or anything that required an
immediate repair, however it wasn’t until the Thermographer stepped into the switch
room of one particular store, that they felt something was immediately wrong. The
ambient temperature of the switch room was warmer than
expected, so upon a scan of the room with the thermal
imaging camera, the Thermographer could see the following
(image to the right):

What you can see in the thermal image (using the ironbow
colour palette) is the main electrical LV panel. The main switch
(circled) in the image appears to be warmer than the rest of its
surroundings and environment, so further investigation was
required. After gaining access, the Thermographer took the
following image, which displays a significant temperature
anomaly with the main electricity income cable:

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iRed Ltd October 2013 Case Study

This is a major fault with the cable and has a large potential to develop into a fire hazard
and cause power loss throughout the store – and this particular store had no form of
back up power.

The photo to the right is what you

would be able to see to the naked
eye, which does not indicate that
the cable is at fault so would most
likely only be discovered upon
failure.

The discovery of this faulty cable

was immediately brought to the
facility manager’s attention, who
then subsequently arranged for a
total shutdown of power at the next
available opportunity, to further
inspect and then repair the problem.

After the shutdown and repair had taken

place, we were able to see the extent to
which the cable was damaged (see photo to
left).

If this cable had failed, not only was there a

risk that it could cause a fire, but could also
have resulted in loss of products and no
sales for the store whilst the power was
down.

Disaster averted! All because of a

straightforward and efficient thermal
imaging survey carried out by qualified and
experienced Thermographer. The moral of
the story? Predictive maintenance can save
potentially huge losses and easily avoidable
down time.

If you would like any more information on

how thermal imaging can help you, visit:
www.iredltd.co.uk

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iRed Ltd October 2013 Case Study

About iRed

iRed is a team of industry leading Thermography Consultants providing thermographic

inspections, specialist investigations, approved training and advice globally. We deliver a
diverse range of non-destructive thermal imaging services and additional turnkey
solutions tailored to meet the exacting needs of your business.

Contact Information

iRed Ltd t: 0 (+44) 1243 370 296

Unit 7, The Old Flour Mill f: 0 (+44) 2392 984 576
Queen Street
e: enquiries@iredltd.co.uk
Emsworth
Hampshire w: www.iredltd.co.uk
PO10 7BT
United Kingdom

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