Going Within…Thermally!

Remember in Star Wars, when Yoda told Luke to go within to understand what is truly going on. I as well,
mention to my students to go within on all thermal anomalies. Here’s an example:

Obtaining a temperature that accurately depicts the severity of a thermal anomaly can mean the difference
of classifying the anomaly as a minor problem and/or an emergency! The problem is, we measure the first
molecular layer of our target objects. Yet, in most cases the problem is being created within.

The thermal image above clearly shows a problem on the left phase. The temperature indicated, 55°C.
Now, this is indeed a problem, but for the size of the cable and temperature rating, it does not mean it is a
serious problem. Considering the rated temperature of the cable and connector, this would be classified as
an intermediate problem. But, yep… there is the but… The temperature being taken is not on the cable or
connector, but on the outside cover. The concern being, the problem might be worse than indicated on the
outside cover.

The cover was removed, as shown below, and the temperature increased to over 195°C. This component
was immediately put into the repair schedule.

I’.

It pays to do a little extra work when attempting to classify thermal anomalies.

As Yoda says…go within!

InfraRon
www.infraredinstitute.com
For more information call or email us at: marketing@infraredinstitute.com
Tel: 63 2 219 5837 ; 63 9291979055/ 63 9953639357