Infrared Thermography

Infrared thermography is a valuable predictive/preventative maintenance tool. Electrical and mechanical devices usually generate heat before they fail. For example, a bearing that is starting to fail will create more friction and heat.  Our infrared camera can detect excess heat before the failure happens resulting in less downtime and a safer environment for your employees. Infrared thermography is also very good at detecting hot joints in electical panels.  Hot joints are not visible to the naked eye but are picked up by an infrared camera.  Having electrical panels periodically checked with an infrared camera provides a measure of safety to your facility and lessens the chance of a hot joint creating a fire.  Infrared thermography is a great complement to the vibration/spectrum analysis services that Topeka Electric Motor has been providing for over ten years. See below for information about vibration/spectrum analysis.

Vibration/Spectrum Analysis

Vibration/spectrum analysis is an important tool in predictive/preventative maintenance programs. Topeka Electric Motor provides a unique perspective to this service.  We were diagnosing vibration problems long before modern vibration equipment was available.  We used sticks and stethoscopes to “listen” to vibration problems.  This was the “old school” way of doing vibration analysis.  Today, vibration/spectrum analysis uses sophisticated measuring equipment to measure imbalance. This is the “new school” way of conducting vibration/spectrum analysis.  Topeka Electric Motor combines “old school” know-how with “new school” technology to deliver a level of service that few service providers can match.  Freshly minted technicians may know how to operate new equipment and take readings, but they lack the extensive knowledge about motors and equipment being tested.  It is the extensive knowledge that sets us apart.  While we use the new equipment, we also check the motors and equipment the old fashion way with stethoscopes. 

One of the most common causes of rotating machine failure is unacceptable machine vibration. This is caused by imbalance, soft foot or a misaligned shaft. Vibration/spectrum analysis allows us to monitor and assess machinery while it is running. With regular monitoring, we can detect many potential problems before a machine fails. This can cut down on costly down time for your business. Other benefits include improved safety, improved quality, reduced rework, reduced spare parts inventory and increased productivity. Contact us to learn more about what vibration/spectrum analysis can do to benefit your business.