Using Infrared Techniques for the Condition Assessment of Isolated Phase Bus Duct

The normal application of isolated phase bus duct is to make the connection between large generators and its associated generator step up transformer. The bus also is used to make connections to auxiliary, reserve auxiliary, potential, and excitation transformers, the purposes of which, are used for metering, relaying, and auxiliary power. The bus is a vital link in maintaining the integrity of a generation facility. Isolated phase bus is perhaps the most ignored or forgotten piece of equipment in a generation plant. The maintenance of the bus assembly must be done on a regular basis. Infrared technology is the best tool to identify significant problems with the isolated phase bus. This paper will discuss the differences between continuous and noncontinuous bus duct, as well as a perspective from an operational sense, what the infrared thermographer can expect to see.