WORLD’S FIRST ULTRASOUND PORT

Arcing, tracking and corona are sure signs of potential failure in electrical distribution systems and switchgear. An ultrasound gun can detect these early warnings easily but only if the sound quality is good enough to provide a viable reading. Furthermore, the data collection must be repeatable and reproducible for any condition based monitoring programme to reveal a trend and grade severity.

Thanks to a new introduction from IRISS this can now be easily achieved without compromising operator safety or productivity. The new IRISS VP12 is the world’s first ultrasound port that allows access to consistent quality data regardless of technician experience or enclosure rating.   It enables potentially hazardous and costly faults to be identified efficiently during routine inspections.

With a body diameter of 6.5cm, the IRISS VP12 provides a 1.2cm port. In ventilated switchgear, the port provides a standardized measurement point but in NEMA rated enclosures its effect is even more valuable. This new IRISS product supplies the only access where technicians, wearing appropriate PPE, can safely collect data on critical, energized equipment in accordance with safety mandates found within NFPA70E. 

Manufactured using non-conductive, UL94 switchgear-grade plastics and insulated to 30kV/mm, the IRISS VP12 is also versatile. It can be used either for ultrasound or for IR inspection. The standard kit includes an IR transmissive lens for optional and permanent use as an IR window for small targets or small IR camera lens apertures.

The alternative grill opening complies with IP2X standard for maximum hole size in switchgear to prevent accidental insertion of tools and technicians’ fingers. A lockable cover maintains IP65/NEMA 4 seal when closed and the overall unit is impact and flame resistant in line with IEEE standards.

Commenting on the new introduction Patrick Christie, IRISS EMEA Regional Sales Manager said: “From our own experience we know this product will greatly improve predictive maintenance efficiency and we are delighted to confirm that the IRISS VP12 has now also been approved by all the leading manufacturers of ultrasonic instruments – it’s a great endorsement.”