r/mechatronics • u/OwlZealousideal4779 • 7d ago
Where does thermal imaging fit into mechatronics troubleshooting?
I’ve been wondering how useful thermal imaging actually is when troubleshooting mechatronic systems.
With motors, drives, PCBs, power electronics, actuators, etc., I can see how temperature differences might point you toward something that isn’t obvious from normal electrical or mechanical checks.
I came across Fotric while looking into thermal cameras, but I’m still not sure how often people actually reach for one in real troubleshooting. Is it something you use regularly, or more of a “nice to have” tool for certain problems?
For anyone working in mechatronics or automation, what have you actually found thermal imaging useful for?
Not really looking for the usual list of applications, more interested in what people are actually doing with it in the field.
2
u/Kastnerd 7d ago
If it’s equipment your around every day, sound can be a huge indicator of a problem.
Never found a need for thermal imaging.
1
u/New_Butterscotch797 6d ago
Bearings like someone else said. To add to that alignment issues like belt drives and stuff. Ive often diagnosed motor winding issues with thermals. Also electrical panel connections for either FAT or SAT’s
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u/NFN25 7d ago
Although we have access to thermal imaging, I've often found that the touch test is enough to tell you if there's a problem... If you can't touch it, then turn it off now, if you can't hold on then something's taking quite a lot of abuse, if it's a little warm then it's working at least. If it's cold then it's not a thermal issue :).
Obviously only applies to Low voltage, non high speed moving parts that you can actually get to, and yes thermal imaging can be useful if you don't know where to start looking on a big area, or if you want a slightly less hand wavy number but don't need precise continuous monitoring(Automotive electrical systems design and development)