Investigation on Equipment Failure Mode and Causes Using Infra-Red Thermovision Camera Images for High Voltage Electrical Connection

Abstract

High voltage (HV) electrical connection hot spot scanning and monitoring is important to ensure the availability, continuity and reliability of electrical supply. The aim of this research work is to investigate HV electrical connection apparatus using infra-red thermovision camera. A database of hot spot images from infra-red thermovision scanning is needed to perform an analysis to ascertain the mode and causes of the hot spot. Eight numbers of Tenaga NasionalBerhad’s (TNB) main intakes (PMU) with different location, environment type, and load were selected to get various data to be formed a hot spot database. The database consist of HV electrical apparatus scanning image using infra-red thermovision camera to investigate the hot spot temperature reading, location and bay in dedicated PMU. The data collected from year 2010 until 2013 were analyzed to ascertain the failure modes of the HV electrical connection apparatus according to TNB condition monitoring unit standards. All objectives were achieved by performing the database, equipment failure mode and causes were ascertained are related to the load (MW) and bad workmanship during erection process. Connection apparatus with high hot spot reading were investigated, repaired or taken out from services if damage, and replaced. Solutions were proposed on the damage electrical HV electrical connection apparatus depends on the source of the problem.