Frequently asked questions

Clear answers before the drone leaves the ground.

Understand what thermographic inspection can reveal, which conditions matter and what information is needed to plan a useful inspection.

Illustrative placeholder showing frequently asked questions about drone thermography inspections
Engineering-led inspection
Technical guidance

Useful information without overstating capability.

The correct inspection method depends on the asset, conditions and the decision the client needs to make. These answers are general and are refined during project planning.

Need to discuss a specific asset?

Speak with ThermoSky about the site, operating condition and required deliverables.

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01

What is drone-based thermographic inspection?

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It is an aerial inspection method that uses an infrared thermal camera carried by a drone to record surface-temperature patterns. Thermal imagery is normally reviewed together with high-resolution visible imagery, site information and operating context.

02

Can solar panels remain operational during the inspection?

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Usually, operating conditions are needed because meaningful electrical loading helps create temperature differences that can be assessed. The required operating condition and any site restrictions are confirmed during planning.

03

What solar PV concerns may be identified?

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Possible observations include module hotspots, cell or substring patterns, bypass-diode-related signatures, junction-box heating, connection concerns, shading or soiling effects and visible module condition issues. The achievable findings depend on system design, environmental conditions and image quality.

04

Can every thermal anomaly be treated as a confirmed defect?

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No. A thermal anomaly is an observation. Weather, reflection, angle, loading, emissivity, shading, soiling and system configuration may affect the image. Electrical testing or close physical inspection may be needed to confirm the cause.

05

How long does an inspection take?

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Duration depends on asset size, layout, access, weather, flight restrictions, required image detail and reporting scope. ThermoSky will estimate the field and reporting time after reviewing the project information.

06

What weather conditions are required?

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Thermographic data is normally collected under stable and suitable environmental conditions. Solar inspections require meaningful irradiance and should avoid unsuitable wind, rapid cloud changes or recent conditions that distort temperature patterns. Final timing is confirmed for each site.

07

What information is included in the report?

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Depending on the agreed scope, the report may include an executive summary, inspection conditions and limitations, thermal and visible images, asset or location references, temperature observations, priority categories and recommended follow-up actions.

08

Can ThermoSky inspect rooftop and ground-mounted solar systems?

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Yes. The inspection method is adapted to roof access, array geometry, plant size, nearby obstacles, asset records and the required level of module identification.

09

Can ThermoSky inspect transmission and distribution lines?

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ThermoSky can define thermal and visual inspection scopes for line assets, subject to voltage level, access, terrain, operating condition, safe clearances, airspace requirements and equipment capability.

10

Is shutdown of the electrical system required?

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Not necessarily. Thermal inspections often require the equipment to be operating under relevant load. However, site safety rules, the inspection objective and any need for close verification determine whether coordination or a shutdown is required.

11

Does ThermoSky provide ultraviolet corona inspection or LiDAR?

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These capabilities should not be assumed. ThermoSky will state the available sensors and methods in the quotation. Specialised inspections are included only when the required equipment and competence are specifically confirmed.

12

Which parts of Sri Lanka are covered?

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ThermoSky is based in Colombo and can consider projects across Sri Lanka. Mobilisation, access and travel requirements are reviewed as part of the quotation.

13

What should I provide for a quotation?

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Provide the asset type, site location, installed PV capacity or line length, approximate asset quantity, layout or route information, known concerns, preferred timing and required deliverables. Drawings and photographs are helpful.

14

How can I request a quotation?

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Use the website enquiry form, email info@thermosky.lk, call +94 77 69 101 29 or send a WhatsApp message. ThermoSky will review the available information and request any details needed to define the scope.

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Still have a technical question?

Send the asset details and your inspection objective. ThermoSky will explain the practical method, limitations and information required.