Page 66 - Security Today, March 2019

Leveraging Thermal
Against Threats
Defending against external threats and asset failure at substations
BAy Fredrik Wallberg
rtificial intelligence continues to redefine the capabili- ties of physical security systems and shape customer demands. Today, users expect their security solutions to feature analytics that enable object recognition, target classification, facial detection along with many
other advanced functions. In other words, end users across the secu- rity industry are searching for systems that provide a return on invest- ment as well as business intelligence beyond security.
Electrical substations are a prime example. Housing mission- critical assets in remote locations where activity is mostly static, sub- station monitoring can be tedious. However, recent advancements in intrusion detection technologies and analytics software are helping substations to leverage thermal imaging cameras to improve both se- curity and operations. While many utility professionals are familiar with how thermal cameras can provide 24-hour perimeter monitoring for threat detection, there is also a key opportunity to deploy thermal for continuous condition monitoring for machinery. By leveraging thermal for security and maintenance, utilities deter intruders, pre- vent equipment failure, reduce unexpected downtime for customers,
64
0319 | SECURITY TODAY
and gain substantial savings.
Why Substations Are Deploying Thermal
When it comes to perimeter protection, there is a reason these high- end assets deploy premium thermal cameras. First, enterprise-grade thermal cameras deliver consistent performance even in harsh weath- er environments. Capturing the minute differences between heat sig- natures of objects, thermal cameras produce clear, sharp imagery in rain, shine or complete darkness. By deploying thermal cameras with long detection ranges, security directors receive an early warning of any approaching threat from several hundred meters away.
New multi-faceted cameras featuring both thermal sensors and optical cameras with built-in analytics are also attractive options for substations and system integrators alike because they simplify deployment. Traditional fence protection and buried cable sensor systems require extensive materials and labor. A standard, eight- foot-tall chain link fence for a 200 yard area can be upwards of $50,000. Add that to the costs for trenching, the cable system it- self, and the cameras needed to provide visual verification for any
PERIMETER SECURITY
Valery Lisin/Shutterstock.com