Ultrasound is becoming a must-have technology for electrical inspections because of how how well it complements traditional infrared inspections of electrical gear, as well as for safety. Ultrasound inspections can typically be done prior to opening energised electrical cabinets. The anomalies detected by ultrasound include corona, tracking, and arcing.
Ultrasound instrumentation can be used on almost any energised electrical equipment including metal-clad switchgear, transformers, substations, relays, and motor control centres. They can be used on low, medium, and high voltage systems.
Traditionally, inspection of energised electrical equipment has been performed by infrared cameras. However, in recent years, ultrasound instruments have been added to these inspections for various reasons, such as safety: an ultrasound inspection of electrical equipment can be performed without opening the cabinet or enclosure.
