VDI/VDE 2878 Blatt 2:2012-02

Today´s infrared measuring devices are easy and straightforward to use. Importantly, they can be applied to checking systems of energy transfer and energy distribution within industrial and manufacturing compounds, as well as within infrastructure systems. These checks are either carried out by especially trained and qualified maintenance department staff, or are outsourced to external service providers. The guideline gives an overview of the range, the basics and the procedures of this application. The heat radiating from the surfaces of the examined objects is measured and its distribution represented graphically. The analysis of heat distribution highlights problematic areas, such as bad electric connections and conductors strained by excessive currents. Measurements inside electrical cabinets allow for assessing the layout and assembly of active and passive components and their optimum interaction, which is important since unfavourable distances between components or insufficient air circulation may lead to overheating and cause failures.