In order to comply with DSEAR and ATEX requirements employers have an obligation to avoid the ignition of explosive atmospheres. This obligation includes routine verification of in-service equipment operating within the designated T-Class and involves hundreds if not thousands of point measurements of mechanical and electrical equipment as part of the verification process.

IR thermography can accomplish this goal simply and easily by providing real time imagery of both electrical and mechanical equipment while live and
on-load in a normal operating condition providing instant indication of problem areas for further investigation, efficiently over large areas.

Until recently IR cameras were not available as ATEX Certified equipment
and hence lengthy hot-work permits along with gas-detection equipment were required for brief periods of operation within the Explosive Atmosphere, making the adoption of this technology unattractive.

Recently so-called ExCAMs (Fig.1) have been developed to allow continuous, portable operation within the Explosive Atmosphere without the need for permits or supplementary safety equipment. Onboard features indicate potential problem areas such as bearings, pumps, motors and electrical equipment as operating with a surface temperature above that designated by the operator as maximum for that area (Fig.2).

Using IR thermography within an Explosive Atmosphere heralds a new era for both predictive maintenance and safety, helping employers to comply with legal requirements while increasing productivity. 

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Hawk IR International is based in Cleveland, UK. www.hawk-ir.com