Reduce risk and maintain compliance with our specialist risk management services.
We’re proud to be a leading provider of complete life cycle risk management solutions. From ensuring asset safety and legal compliance with our thorough engineering inspections to driving operational efficiency with our specialist non-destructive testing services, (and much more in between), we’re proud of the long-lasting partnerships we have formed with our customers over the last 160 years, based on the value of our solutions.
Thermographic Surveys
Reduce the risk of unexpected downtime with Thermographic Surveys.
Thermographic Surveys help uncover hidden faults within your equipment, so issues can be rectified before total asset failure – allowing your premises to continue operating efficiently. Issues such as bearing failures, shaft misalignment, insulation breakdowns or circuit overloads have the potential to disrupt your daily operations. It’s crucial to identify problems early, minimising the risk of unplanned downtime and safety hazards.
What is a Thermographic Survey?
Thermographic Surveys are a type of asset reliability inspection, which primarily assess electrical and mechanical equipment. They can also be applied to buildings, assets, and refractory and process applications.
There are two main types of Thermography:
- Active Thermography: Which uses an external heat source to create a temperature difference.
- Passive Thermography: Which uses the natural heat emitted by the object being inspected.
Using thermal imaging cameras, Thermographic Surveys identify potential hazards that may not be noticeable during a routine visual inspection. If left undetected, these hazards could be critical to your operations, causing issues such as gas leaks, overheating, faulty insulation, or blocked pipes – therefore it’s important to identify them as soon as possible.
Thermographic Surveys can identify abnormal temperature distribution to detect faults early. Most assets have a spike in temperature (hot or cold) before they fail, which is why infrared cameras are so effective as they can spot temperature changes immediately.
Discover hidden issues and ensure the reliability of your essential equipment.
Contact our Thermographic experts today Contact our Thermographic experts today Contact our Thermographic experts today
Reasons for possible defects in electrical systems
Equipment can have abnormally high temperatures for many reasons, including faulty insulation, overloaded sockets, loose connections, or legacy and outdated equipment. Gradual wear and tear over time can also increase the risk of higher temperatures and may lead to equipment failure. For example, distribution boards are commonly susceptible to overloaded electrical circuits – leading to a surge in temperature.
Without proper detection and diagnosis, equipment could continue to operate at high temperatures, leading to severe safety risks such as accidents and fires. Thermographic Surveys help to identify hazards early, so they can be repaired or replaced before they cause further risks and create unplanned downtime.
Our Thermographic Surveys for various applications
Electrical Surveys
Electrical Thermal Imaging Surveys are a non-invasive, highly effective method for detecting potential electrical hazards. These surveys use a thermal imaging camera, which measures the surface temperature of electrical components and rewiring. Anomalies could indicate potential electrical faults, such as: Poor connections: Loose or corroded connections generate heat due to increased resistance. Overloaded cables: When cables carry more current than they’re rated for, they can overheat, which can lead to insulation damage and potential arcing or fires. Faulty electrical equipment: Faulty electrical equipment, such as transformers or junction boxes, can generate excess heat due to internal breakdowns or malfunctions. Hidden hazards: Thermal imaging can also reveal hidden electrical hazards, such as overheating cables concealed behind walls or in enclosed spaces.
Contact BES Group’s Thermographic experts
Building Surveys
Thermographic Building Surveys use infrared cameras to assess the surface temperature distribution of a building and identify potential heat loss or gain areas. Within building Thermographic Surveys, we can: Identify heat loss and gain areas: Thermographic Surveys can pinpoint areas where heat is escaping or entering the building, providing actionable ventilation recommendations. Evaluate building envelope performance: Surveys can assess the effectiveness of the building envelope, so you can minimise energy consumption and optimise the indoor temperature. Identify air leaks and gaps: Thermal imaging can detect air leaks around windows, doors, and other building components, so you can improve air tightness.
Mechanical Surveys
Mechanical Thermal Imaging Surveys utilise infrared cameras to capture images of surface temperature distribution on mechanical equipment.
These surveys are particularly useful for identifying potential mechanical faults, such as:
- Bearing failures: It can identify areas of excessive heat, indicating friction or rubbing between the bearing surfaces.
- Misalignment: It can locate misalignment by identifying areas of uneven temperature distribution, which could indicate friction and vibration.
- Damaged belts: It can detect worn or mismatched belts by identifying areas of excessive heat generation, which could indicate friction or rubbing between the belt and pulleys.
How our Thermographic Surveys can benefit you:
Thermographic Surveys detect issues that may be difficult to see, which can help you ensure your equipment and assets are in good working order and operating safely. Thermographic building surveys are also useful for maintaining compliance with Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM) certifications, making sure your building meets regulations and environmental performance standards.
Early detection of issues
Thermographic Surveys can detect potential hazards, such as electrical fires, gas leaks, and structural defects early, helping you prevent accidents.
Electrical efficiency
Electrical thermographic surveys can identify areas of heat loss, allowing you to make greater energy savings and reduce costs.
Quick and accurate
Our surveys can be conducted quickly and easily without prior inspection or preparations.
Minimal downtime
Your assets and equipment stay fully operational while we conduct our surveys.
Non-invasive
Our surveys are non-invasive and won’t damage your assets or equipment.
Detailed report
You’ll receive a detailed Thermographic Survey report with actionable steps, which is available for you to access online whenever you need it.
Early detection of issues
Thermographic Surveys can detect potential hazards, such as electrical fires, gas leaks, and structural defects early, helping you prevent accidents.
Electrical efficiency
Electrical thermographic surveys can identify areas of heat loss, allowing you to make greater energy savings and reduce costs.
Quick and accurate
Our surveys can be conducted quickly and easily without prior inspection or preparations.
Minimal downtime
Your assets and equipment stay fully operational while we conduct our surveys.
Non-invasive
Our surveys are non-invasive and won’t damage your assets or equipment.
Detailed report
You’ll receive a detailed Thermographic Survey report with actionable steps, which is available for you to access online whenever you need it.
Our Thermographic Survey process
Pre-planning
During our initial review, our expert team will endure a thorough assessment of your equipment and plant, to compile a comprehensive diagnosis and solution of underlying issues.
Our comprehensive analysis covers:
- Initial Consultation: We will tailor the survey based on your assets, concerns, and goals within a detailed discussion.
- Asset selection: Based on your specific needs and the type of equipment being inspected, we assign the appropriate thermal imaging camera for the survey.
- Organisation and site preparation: To ensure minimal disruption, we will schedule the survey timing carefully and provide guidance on any necessary preparations, such as clearing obstructions or adjusting lighting.
Survey implementation
During the survey, we take various data points to create a detailed report which includes:
- Asset inspection: Using the thermal imaging camera our qualified engineers will scan electrical panels, boards, switches, connections, and other components.
- Temperature inquiry: The camera converts infrared radiation into visual images, highlighting areas with abnormal heat signatures.
- Load correction factor: We utilise a unique formula that considers equipment load and ambient temperature, allowing for accurate assessment of permitted heat limits for each component.
- Data findings and explanation: Our team will highlight any anomalies observed, explaining the potential implications and what the next steps will be.
Examination and reporting
Once the survey is completed, we will thoroughly analyse the data and provide you with a detailed insight into your asset diagnostics.
This information will then be used to help create a tailored action plan:
- Image and data interpretation: We will analyse the thermal images and identify potential hazards, areas of heat loss, and other key findings.
- Report generation: Our comprehensive report can be accessed online and contains the thermal images, measurements, identified anomalies, and recommendations for remedial action.
- Evaluation and action plan: Our team will review the report findings in detail with you, to provide a clear understanding of the issues and a comprehensive action plan to address them.
Hear what our customers have to say
We care about the journey we take our customers on, but it’s not our word you should be taking, see what our customers think of the service we provided!
“
BES Group has demonstrated exceptional service, earning our commendation. We extend our appreciation for the meticulous vibration analysis conducted and the invaluable on-board work and advice provided by Simon. Through their prompt and dedicated efforts, our ship is poised to sail tomorrow, providing essential assurance to the Vessels Owner. Simon’s responsiveness at short notice is particularly noteworthy, and we express our sincere gratitude for the commitment to excellence displayed by the entire BES Group team.
”
Michael Wilkinson
Vessel Manager
“
The BES inspectors are way more technically competent and diligent compared to other providers. BES definitely stands out due to their strong technical competence and strong back office support.
”
Customer
Project Operations Manager
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Some of the other international players don’t even have nationwide coverage. BES was able to offer us local resources across the country for our complex operations, there is no other provider that could give us that.
”
Customer
Project Manager
Thermography Survey FAQs
Is a Thermography Survey and Thermal Imaging the same?
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Thermographic Surveys refer to the entire assessment process of inspecting electrical components and assets to detect abnormal temperatures. The survey also involves a detailed report with findings and actionable guidance. Thermal imaging is a technique used as part of the Thermographic Survey. It’s the process of capturing images that display temperature variations.
How often should you conduct a Thermography Survey?
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The frequency of Thermographic Surveys depends the type of equipment or asset, and how often it is used. Generally, Thermographic Surveys should be carried out in between the period of formal inspections to identify potential issues. For example, every 1-3 years for buildings and at least once a year for electrical systems. In higher-risk environments such as areas that carry ATEX ratings, surveys may be required more frequently.
Is a Thermography Survey a legal requirement?
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Despite Thermographic Survey’s not being regarded as a legal requirement in the UK, the global organisation National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) mandates that a Thermographic Inspection is conducted every 12 months, across all electrical equipment under standard 70B. Although, the NPFA do not hold legal power in the UK to enforce this. However, the HSE could choose to cite this along with the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 in a claim if required.
What does BREEAM stand for?
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BREEAM stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology. It sets the standards for building and works ratings. Maintaining compliance with BREEAM is important for ensuring your building meets regulations and environmental performance standards.
Our credentials
View all our accreditationsAmerican Bureau of Shipping
British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd.
Alcumus ISO 9001
BES Group Testing Ltd. - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Ltd. - XEIAD - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Mimic Ltd.
Alcumus ISOQAR
British Engineering Services Limited - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - BES Group Electrical Ltd.
Alcumus ISO 14001
BES Group Testing Ltd. - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Ltd. - XEIAD
Alcumus ISOQAR 45001
Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Ltd. - XEIAD - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd.
RISQS
XEIAD Ltd - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Strainstall Ltd - Inspired Access Ltd - Inspire Structures Ltd
Avetta
British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - BES Group Electrical Ltd.
Achilles
British Engineering Services Limited
BINDT
British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd.
MOBIUS Institute
British Engineering Services Group Asset Reliability Ltd.
American Bureau of Shipping
British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd.
Alcumus ISO 9001
BES Group Testing Ltd. - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Ltd. - XEIAD - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Mimic Ltd.
Alcumus ISOQAR
British Engineering Services Limited - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - BES Group Electrical Ltd.
Alcumus ISO 14001
BES Group Testing Ltd. - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Ltd. - XEIAD
Alcumus ISOQAR 45001
Notus Heavy Lift Solutions Ltd. - XEIAD - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd.
RISQS
XEIAD Ltd - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd - British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Strainstall Ltd - Inspired Access Ltd - Inspire Structures Ltd
Avetta
British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd. - BES Group Electrical Ltd.
Achilles
British Engineering Services Limited
BINDT
British Engineering Services Asset Reliability Ltd.
MOBIUS Institute
British Engineering Services Group Asset Reliability Ltd.
Discover our related services
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Thermographic Surveys
Ultrasonic Condition Monitoring
Our sectors
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