The plant needs to be operational during the inspection. Fully loaded is the optimum for an infrared scan. A poor electrical connection generates heat that can cause power loss at the connection. The higher the current flow, the more power will be dissipated.
Most damage occurs when the electrical connection actually fails. The arc that is caused when the connections separate will melt most metals. A connection that would have cost Rs . 200 in parts and labor to repair before failure could cost the owner in excess of Rs. 500,000 if it goes to failure.
You are paying extra in your electrical bill for all hot connections. The electrical meter does not care where the power is going,
Thermography can be used to monitor the condition of plant machinery and electrical systems. Thermography has been very effective in studying electrical systems.