Design and Fabrication of Low-Cost Thermal Imaging Device Prototype to Detect Heat Energy Loss in Electrical Equipment

Abstract

Ability to detect heat energy loss from electrical equipment can be proven crucial to avoid overheating and unexpected fire incident. The thermal remote camera was invented to prevent power outages or electrical machinery failures. Thermal imaging cameras are device which converts thermal energy (heat) into infrared spectrum to inspect a specific object or scene. Imagery that reflects the spatial variability of temperature differences in a scene observed by a thermal camera are called thermal images. Due to the complexity of the device, it can be cost and not a solution sought for. This research presents the designing and fabrication of low-cost thermal imaging cameras that plays major role in detecting heat energy losses in various applications. This prototype of thermal imaging cameras is tested to monitor and diagnose the heat health, especially in electrical installations and components in non-contact mode. Based on the test result presented, the prototype able to detect heat energy spectrum up to 80°C. The 8x8 thermal array able to calculate average temperature of the tested items.