Electrical thermography in a data centre is an infrared survey of energised switchgear, UPS systems, PDUs and busbars, carried out while the site is running under normal load. The equipment stays in service. A qualified electrician opens panels where access is needed, and the thermographer records temperatures and images of every connection that can be reached safely.
What is inspected
- Main and secondary switchgear and breakers
- UPS cabinets and their input and output connections
- Power distribution units (PDUs) and distribution sections
- Busbars, tap-offs and joints
- Generator and transformer connections where accessible
Why load matters
A loose or high-resistance connection only heats up when current flows through it. A survey on a lightly loaded system can miss a fault that would show clearly at normal load. For that reason the report should state the load on each phase at the time of the survey, next to the temperature.
An example from a recent data centre survey
On a data-centre distribution unit with a rated current of 250 A, we recorded 217 A on each of the three phases with the panel cover off. The hottest point measured 96.0°C against an ambient temperature of 25.0°C, which is 71°C above ambient. The finding was rated critical in the survey record. We report what was measured and where. The cause is for the electrician to establish once the circuit is isolated.
What the report should show
- A thermal image and an ordinary photograph of the same item
- Measured temperature, ambient temperature and the difference in °C
- Load on each phase and the equipment rating
- A severity rating with the standard it follows
- The item location, so the finding can be found again
FAQ
Does the data centre need to shut down for a thermography survey?
No. The survey needs the equipment energised and under load. Panels are opened by a qualified electrician where access is needed.
How often should a data centre be surveyed?
Many operators survey once a year, and again after major electrical work. Your insurer, maintenance schedule or site standard may set the interval.
What does thermography not tell you?
It shows heat at the surface that the camera can see. It does not diagnose the cause. It points the electrician to the connection that needs attention.
To discuss a survey, contact sales@thermalimaging.ae.