What is an IR window? Basically it is a crystal lens that allows broadband infrared waves to pass through it (as well as visible light). The lens does not however allow electrical current to pass through. This enables the thermographer to take IR and visible images of live and energized electrical equipment.

To the right you will see an image of a technician using a Flir IR window. One familiar with these types of procedures will notice that this inspection does not require any PPE (personal protective equipment). This is the main idea behind an IR window and its greatest advantage for the user. Typically inspections of large electrical cabinets cannot be done while energized; and if they are done, it must be by a team of at least 3 technicians and requires a great deal of safety gear. These inspections can take up to an hour per panel by this method. Once a hole in the door has been punched (with standard punch gear) and an IR window installed, however, this process can be performed by a single technician in around 5 minutes. That’s a savings of 55 minutes per panel. Now, any party responsible for a large number of electrical inspections in an industrial setting will immediately recognize the tremendous ROI in both time and wages for installing  Flir IR windows on their cabinets.

That’s all this time…