Thermovision Inspections To Be Conducted In Somerset, Union Counties

Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) is conducting thermovision inspections on 355 distribution circuits including in Somerset and Union counties.

The thermographic cameras will detect potential problems on wires and other electrical equipment that cannot be observed during regular visual inspections.

Infrared images of distribution lines exiting substations and fuses located on poles will be captured through the cameras and then the images are downloaded to a computer and reviewed, according to JCP&L.

Heat will appear on a color scale, with brighter or "hot spots" indicating areas that could need repairs. Overall, 2,100 line miles will be inspected as part of this process.

The thermovision inspections are conducted on all of JCP&L's circuits every four years. The inspections are part of JCP&L's previously announced plans to invest $387 million in 2016 to help enhance service and maintain a strong electrical system.

Along with Somerset and Union counties, JCP&L serves 1.1 million New Jersey customers in the counties of Burlington, Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Sussex and Warren.

(Image by FirstEnergy Corp.: Thermographic camera shows infrared image taken on JCP&L distribution lines. Thermographic cameras detect potential problems on wires and other electrical equipment that cannot be observed during regular visual inspections.)

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