Handheld instruments S
PI Inspections provides their customers with top-notch utility system and infrastructure inspections, relying on their extensive experience in the field and advanced inspection technology. The team uses UAVs, FLIR thermal cameras, and other high-tech equipment to deliver qualified inspection services and independent verification of construction standards and monitoring of power systems. Recently, the team at SPI Inspections test-ran
the new FLIR Si124 acoustic imaging camera. Built with 124 microphones, the Si124 produces a precise acoustic image that visually displays ultrasonic information in real time on top of a digital camera picture. This allows the user to visually pinpoint the source of the sound. The founders of SPI Inspections have more
than 100 years of combined experience working with utility systems, from building power lines to inspecting substations. “We’ve been around the block a few times,” says Elton Hunter, field manager at SPI. “Our background is basically power, from where it’s made in the generating facility to where the meter is—either the meter on your home or the meter on your business.” “We've really assisted our customers,” adds Hunter.
“Our goal is to make their systems work better, safer, and be more reliable.” The team at SPI Inspections found the FLIR Si124 to be an invaluable asset in detecting partial discharge, a sign of approaching or imminent failure in power infrastructure.
The Tools of InspecTIon
The journey of electricity from power plant to lightbulb in your home presents plenty of opportunities for failure if infrastructure is not properly
The FLIR Si124 is a lightweight, one-handed solution that can identify issues up to 10 times faster than with traditional methods.
maintained. SPI uses their extensive experience to recognise when an element needs maintenance, aided by advanced technology. “We bring a lot of technological tools to the trade,” says Hunter. Among the tools in their arsenal is the FLIR
GF77 gas detection camera, which allows them to spot sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) leaks in electrical installations as well as detect hot spots. The GF77 is a multi-use camera that can detect a range of gases just by changing out the lens. When equipped with an HR Lens, the camera can visualise sulfur hexafluoride, while an LR Lens allows the camera to see methane, ethylene, ammonia, and other gas emissions. The camera is also calibrated for temperature, so it functions as a standard thermography camera use to reveal a wide range of utility issues. Having relied on FLIR gas detection cameras for
previous inspections, the SPI team was excited to get their hands on the Si124 and see what it could do. Though acoustic imaging cameras are often used to locate pressurised leaks in compressed air systems, the Si124 is also a very effective tool for detecting partial discharge from high-voltage systems. Partial discharge - caused by a breakdown in
Almost invisible electrical utility issues are quickly detected with the Si124.
electrical insulation - can be detected when the air around the breakdown becomes ionized, creating a phenomenon called “corona.” Corona can be quickly detected by acoustic imaging, identified by a “meatball” of sound in the image. “For us, that’s invaluable,” says Hunter. The team had previously been using ultraviolet technology to detect corona and were pleased to find that the Si124 achieved about the same result
Keeping the lights on
26 May 2021 Instrumentation Monthly
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