What are IR Windows used for?

Even though many people have heard about infrared windows and most especially those that are directly concerned with maintaining electrical systems, there is still a lack of working cognizance of them from so many people. That is probably the reason as to why the IR windows have been underused by several facilities. For us to have an understanding of their working, we need to first be aware of what they are in the first place.

What is an IR Window?

Simply put, an infrared window is an engineered optic that has been designed to allow infrared examinations of electrical parts that are located within switchgear barriers. It comprises of either a metallic or plastic frame that has the capability of supporting an infrared transmission optic.

Types of Infrared Windows

1. Viewing panes – A viewing pane is an IR window with a lens that has been enclosed in the covering. The lens here acts as a wall between the interior and exterior environment that prevents the thermographer from being exposed to energised parts.
2. Inspection grills – Inspection grills are IR windows that contain a mesh rather than a solid optic. Grills are normally used in mechanical applications or in the event that operators desire to accomplish infrared and ultrasound scrutiny from the same point of access.

How Do IR Windows Work?

The infrared window acts as a point of data collection that is installed in the electrical switchgear’s metal cover. The window often comprises a backing ring, a lens and a front ring with a concealer that helps keep the opening safe. This composition results to the lens being in a safe housing and forming an enclosure between the internal and external environments.

Factors to Consider When Selecting the IR Window to Install

Before you select an infrared window to install there are certain factors that you need to put into consideration such as:

• The visual field that is available.
• The compatibility of the camera lens.
• The environment that is intended and the components that are going to be inspected.
• Safety considerations.

Where to Install the Infrared Window

Before you install the window you need to take into account factors such as the location of the parts that are inside the enclosure, whether there are any internal hindrances and the visual field that is required so as to ensure that you maximise its effectiveness. However, it is highly advisable that you work with a professional installer in order for you to yield excellent results.

What are IR Windows Used For?

Infrared windows are used as a safer and more efficient industry standard means of facilitating the infrared electrical scrutiny process.

Benefits of IR Windows

• Saving cost and increasing efficiency – Studies reveal that infrared windows eliminate about 90% of the time involved with inspections. This, therefore, means that you will not require several trained staff to open and close the panels anymore.
• Data and Risk management – IR windows provide a more orderly data collection approach. Additionally, they reduce the elevated risk behaviours that are associated with open panel examinations.
• Safety – With infrared windows, you do not have to keep on removing the panels. This drastically reduces the risks of electrocution and arc flash incidents.

It is no secret at all that there are several safety risks associated with energised electrical equipment. As such, there is a need for one to be able to carry out infrared inspections without having to worry about safety risks. Fortunately, enough, infrared windows provide a safer way for one to carry out electrical scrutiny without having to worry about their safety being compromised.