Carlill Energy uses Flir i7 thermal imaging cameras to detect problems at solar power plants in Punjab, India. When a solar panel fails, the affected area usually emits heat. This is fortunate for Carlill Energy, as it enables the company to use thermal cameras to detect and identify problems with photovoltaic cells, junction boxes and grid connections at an early stage.
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Punjab has enormous solar energy potential. Carlill Energy Private Limited is a pioneer in the establishment of solar power plants in this Indian state. It has already installed a capacity of 1.5 MW. The latest plant was commissioned in February 2012 in the Muktsar district, in accordance with the guidelines of the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA). It enjoys an excellent public image and joins the numerous solar power plants in the state.
Early detection and inspection of diode packages
After a recent incident with a faulty diode box, Carlill Energy looked for a solution that would report anomalies. This would enable precautionary measures to be taken, and incidents involving diode boxes to be prevented. Extensive market research and a survey of industry professionals led to the decision to purchase a FLIR thermal imaging camera. Carlill Energy purchased a FLIR i7 from M/s Industrial Agencies, a FLIR distributor based in Chandigarh, India.
The distributor also provided training for Carlill Energy's maintenance team. During the training, three major hot spots were detected in junction boxes. According to the maintenance team, a failure of these boxes could have stopped power generation and tarnished the plant's public image.
High performance, 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 purchased this equipment last year, as soon as the plant was commissioned. "Carlill Energy uses the Flir i7 thermal camera to identify problems not only in diode housings, but also in photovoltaic cells and grid connections.
According to Mr. Satnam Singh, Maintenance Manager at Carlill Energy, the FLIR i7 thermal imaging camera will help him pinpoint 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, they enabled us to prevent costly breakdowns. "In addition, it will increase the company's overall return on investment for this plant.
Flir i7 thermal camera
The Flir i7 is the smallest, lightest and most economical thermal imaging camera on the market. It's incredibly easy to use and requires no experience. Simply point it at the target to produce high-quality images, giving you the thermal information you need immediately. 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 stored internally or externally, sent and analyzed. It weighs just 365 g and can be worn on a belt. Flir i-series thermal imaging cameras can withstand a 2-meter drop. They are splashproof to IP43.
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, ready for printing or emailing, to quickly get the green light for repairs.
Learn more: www.flir.com