An open circuit is a common electrical failure that can impact the operation of industrial systems and equipment. This issue occurs when an electrical component, such as a wire or connection, is interrupted and no longer allows the flow of electric current. Open circuits can be challenging to visually detect, but their consequences can be significant, including disruptions in operation, device malfunction, and safety risks.

Infrared thermography emerges as a valuable tool for identifying open circuits. When a circuit is open, an abnormal heat accumulation can occur at the site of the interruption. This temperature difference is detectable through thermal imaging cameras, which provide a visual image of thermal variations. By inspecting electrical systems using infrared thermography, technicians can easily identify hotspots or areas where an abnormal temperature increase is occurring due to an open circuit.

A practical example of detecting open circuits with infrared thermography is inspecting electrical panels. In these panels, open circuits can occur due to lose connections, damaged wires, or faulty components. A technician equipped with an infrared camera can explore the panel and efficiently identify areas where an abnormal temperature increase is happening due to open circuits.