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                MET Group are Global Leaders in Busbar Inspections, Ensuring Compliance & Reliability

"MET Group Embraces Technology to Overcome Challenges Where Others See Barriers"

Busbar inspection and maintenance are often neglected, yet they are vital for ensuring the smooth operation of critical systems. We provide comprehensive inspection and maintenance services for all existing busbar systems.

Our team utilises fully calibrated equipment for inspecting, servicing, and conducting electrical tests and diagnostics to address busbar performance issues. Many of our clients have experienced significant cost savings through this preventative service, which has enabled the identification and resolution of major faults before they lead to catastrophic failures in existing installations.

Busbars are essential components of electrical distribution systems, serving as a common connection point for multiple circuits. Regular testing and maintenance of busbars are crucial for maintaining the reliability and safety of the electrical system. Here are the key aspects of busbar testing and maintenance: –

Regular inspection of your busbar and tap-offs will ensure that critical power remains uninterrupted.

Only 11% of busbar runs and tap-off switches are tested based on the data we collect to ensure they are in a safe and reliable condition.

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  1. Visual Inspection:

    • Perform a visual inspection of the busbars to check for signs of physical damage, corrosion, loose connections, or overheating.

    • Ensure that the busbar supports and insulators are in good condition.

  2. Tightness of Connections:

    • Check the tightness of all connections, including busbar-to-busbar connections and connections to other electrical components.

    • Loose connections can lead to increased resistance, heating, and potential failure

  3. Thermographic Imaging:

    • Use thermal imaging to identify any abnormal temperature patterns on the busbars. Hot spots may indicate loose connections, imbalances in current distribution, or other issues.

    • Address any anomalies detected during thermal imaging to prevent overheating and potential failures.

  4. Insulation Resistance Test:

    • Perform an insulation resistance test to assess the insulation integrity of the busbars. This test helps identify any insulation breakdown or contamination.

    • Regular insulation resistance testing is crucial to prevent electrical leakage and ensure the safety of the system.

  5. Contact Resistance Test:

    • Conduct a contact resistance test to ensure that the electrical contacts at the busbar joints have low resistance. High contact resistance can lead to increased heat generation and inefficiencies.

    • Clean and tighten connections as needed to maintain low contact resistance.

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  1. Ultrasonic Inspection:

    • Detection of Internal Defects, Thickness Measurement, Crack Detection, loose joints.

    • Ultrasonic testing is effective in identifying cracks on the surface or within the material of the busbar. Early detection of cracks is crucial for preventing.

  2. Dielectric Strength Test:

    • Perform a dielectric strength test to check the insulation properties of the busbars under high voltage conditions.

    • This test helps ensure that the insulation can withstand the specified voltage stress without breakdown.

  3. Mechanical Inspection:

    • Check the mechanical condition of busbar supports, isolators, and any moving parts. Lubricate components as necessary to maintain proper operation.

    • Verify that the busbar system can be operated safely and smoothly.

  4. Protective Coating Inspection:

    • Inspect any protective coatings on the busbars for signs of wear or damage. Protective coatings help prevent corrosion and ensure the longevity of the busbars.

    • Repair or replace coatings as needed.

  5. Corrosion Protection:

    • Implement corrosion protection measures, especially in environments prone to corrosion. This may include the application of corrosion-resistant coatings or the use of corrosion inhibitors.

  6. Documentation and Recordkeeping:

    • Maintain accurate records of busbar inspections, tests, and maintenance activities. Documentation helps track the history of the busbars and supports future troubleshooting.

Consistent and proactive testing and maintenance of busbars are crucial for avoiding unexpected downtime, ensuring system reliability, and improving the overall safety of the electrical distribution system. Always adhere to safety protocols and manufacturer guidelines during testing and maintenance tasks.

Busbar problems are often incorrectly identified as harmonic currents caused by non-linear loads. According to MET Group's field data, the primary causes of busbar and tap-off switch failures include aging, loosening connections over time, and poorly installed new systems. Without an inspection process due to limitations and inadequate maintenance schedules, you not only risk non-compliance but also face the potential for critical failures.

Porton Down Busbar 7 Report.jpg
Porton Down Busbar 7 Report.jpg
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