Substation Reliability Tip #08

Remote Sampling and IR Windows

Avoiding or reducing exposure to dangerous conditions around energized equipment is often well within reach. A prime example is remote sampling and IR windows, which provide increased safety, efficiency, and convenience. 

Opening a cabinet transformer door to pull a liquid sample creates an inherent safety risk that requires de-energizing your equipment or using bulky amounts of PPE—unless you use remote sampling. Remote sampling provides external liquid sampling access via a safe and secure enclosure installed on the outside of a cabinet transformer. No open door. No risk of electrical shock or arc flashes. Plus, with the cabinet door closed, transformers stay energized—keeping operations uninterrupted and technicians safe from electrical hazards.

Even non-contact inspection methods, such as infrared thermography, pose risks for technicians. Electrical shocks and arc flashes can happen when transformer doors or breaker and switchgear panels are opened, and injuries sustained from the burns and the percussive injuries that occur as a result can be life-changing—even deadly. IR inspection windows eliminate the need for thermographers to open energized equipment, significantly reducing the risk to personnel.