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Carlill Energy uses Flir i7 thermal imaging cameras to detect solar power plant problems in Punjab, India. When a solar panel fails, the area is usually emitting heat. This is an opportunity for Carlill Energy, as this company can use thermal imaging cameras to detect and identify early problems of photovoltaic cells, junction boxes and network connections.
With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Punjab has enormous solar energy potential. Carlill Energy Private Limited is a pioneer for the installation of solar power plants in this state of India. It has already installed a capacity of 1.5 MW. The last plant was commissioned in February 2012 in Muktsar district, in accordance with guidelines from the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA). It enjoys an excellent public image and is in addition to the many solar power plants in the state.
Early detection and inspection of diode boxes
After a recent incident with a faulty diode case, Carlill Energy looked for a solution that reports anomalies. Such a report was intended to provide precautionary measures and prevent incidents related to diode boxes. Extensive market research and a survey of industry professionals led to the decision to acquire a FLIR thermal imaging camera. Carlill Energy obtained a FLIR i7 from M/s Industrial Agencies, a FLIR distributor based in Chandigarh, India.
The distributor also trained Carlill Energy's maintenance team. During the formation, three important hot spots were detected in junction boxes. According to the maintenance team, a failure of these boxes could have stopped the generation of electricity and damaged the public image of the plant.
High performance, a wide range of applications
The management team at M/s Carlill Energy is enthusiastic about the performance of the Flir i7 camera: "We should have bought this equipment last year, as soon as the plant went into service." Carlill Energy uses the Flir i7 thermal imaging camera to identify problems with diode housing, as well as photovoltaic cells and distribution network connections.
According to Satnam Singh, maintenance manager at Carlill Energy, the FLIR i7 thermal imaging camera will help it identify problem areas and thus ensure continuity of power generation. "The company was able to fully cover the cost of acquiring the camera. By detecting problems in critical equipment, it has allowed us to prevent costly failures. In addition, it will increase the company's overall return on investment for this plant.
Flir i7 thermal imaging camera
The Flir i7 is the smallest, lightest and most economical thermal imaging camera on the market. It is incredibly easy to use and requires no experience. Simply point it at the target to produce high-quality images, which immediately provide you with the thermal information you need. Designed for novice users, this camera is extremely easy to understand and use.
The Flir i7 instantly produces JPEG thermal images with all the necessary temperature data. These images can be recorded internally or externally, sent and analyzed. It weighs just 365 g and can be worn at the waist. Flir series i thermal imaging cameras withstand a 2-metre drop. They are water-resistant and have an IP43 protection index.
Analysis and reporting software included
Carlill Energy also chose Flir Tools software, designed to quickly import, edit and analyze images, and integrate them into professional, compelling PDF inspection reports that are ready to be printed or emailed, in order to quickly get the green light for repairs.
Find out more: www.flir.com
