Data Center Enhances Reliability with IRISS CAP-CT Series Infrared Windows

January 3, 2024

In this article:

A national retailer's data center enhanced electrical reliability by implementing IRISS CAP-CT-12 infrared windows, enabling safer and more frequent inspections of critical switchgear. This proactive upgrade reduced downtime risks, improved safety, and positioned the facility for industry-leading maintenance efficiency.

Executive Summary

A leading national discount clothing and home goods retailer’s data center faced challenges in maintaining electrical reliability due to limited infrared (IR) inspection capabilities of their critical 2000 Amp, 480 Volt Main Switchgear. Partnering with Intercept PDM, LLC, the data center implemented IRISS CAP-CT-12 IR windows, enabling more frequent and safer inspections. This proactive approach led to enhanced electrical reliability and operational efficiency.

Challenge

The retailer’s data center, responsible for supporting essential operations, aimed to improve its power usage effectiveness (PUE) and reduce energy losses, particularly since electrical distribution system losses accounted for 12% of total energy consumption. Unscheduled downtime posed significant risks, with potential costs exceeding $8,000 per minute, alongside reputational damage. The existing setup limited the ability to perform frequent and safe IR inspections of the critical 2000 Amp, 480 Volt Main Switchgear, hindering the identification of potential electrical issues before they escalated.

Solution

To address these challenges, the data center collaborated with Intercept PDM, LLC, an IRISS channel partner. After assessing the facility’s needs, they selected and installed IRISS 12-inch rectangular CAP-CT-12 IR windows on the rear sections of the main switchgear. These windows offer a large viewing area and flexible installation, allowing comprehensive inspection of critical wire terminations. The installation process was straightforward, utilizing provided cutout templates and tools, and was completed in under three hours.

Outcome

With the IRISS IR windows installed, the data center significantly increased the frequency of its IR inspections. Inspections can now be conducted without special personal protective equipment (PPE), maintaining equipment in a closed and guarded condition, thereby enhancing safety. This integration into a broader Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) program has positioned the data center to achieve industry-leading levels of electrical reliability.

Key Takeaways

Enhanced Inspection Frequency: The implementation of IRISS CAP-CT-12 IR windows facilitated more frequent and efficient IR inspections.
Improved Safety: Inspections are now carried out without the need for special PPE, keeping equipment in a closed and guarded state.
Increased Reliability: The data center is on track to achieve higher electrical reliability through proactive maintenance strategies.

Discover how IRISS solutions can enhance your facility’s maintenance efficiency and electrical reliability. Contact us today to learn more.

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