Merck, Inc. Sees the Value in IR Imaging:

Merck’s Bio-Technology Manufacturing Complex is a cutting edge, carefully controlled facility. Batches of vaccine must process for pre-determined lengths of time and follow strict quality control guidelines. Because of their high market value, any error can cause a large dent in company revenue. In the past, the time-sensitive nature of pharmaceutical work meant that maintenance often went ignored. But with IR thermography, Merck has changed the way it operates.

Thermal imaging allows for a dynamic inspection, so that surveyors can see the equipment in action. A picture taken with an IR camera can indicate electrical problems without requiring equipment shutdown. Now, a predictive maintenance plan based on these principles helps Merck to determine when electrical and equipment faults cannot be ignored. They have been able to move from time-driven preventative maintenance to condition-based predictive maintenance. Only the equipment really requiring repairs receives it, but all electrical equipment is monitored.

Infrared is changing the way that Merck manufactures vaccines and medications. Both cost-effective and non-invasive, it has allowed workers to focus on doing their jobs, and not on maintenance and repairs. Furthermore, making adjustments with guidance from thermal scans resulted in a significant level of energy savings. Just one more unexpected IR benefit!

Jeremy Kacuba, Merck and Co., in Inframation 2003 Proceedings

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