Which of the following describes a cause of electrical failure identified in thermal imaging?

In the context of thermal imaging used for identifying electrical failures, imbalanced branch loads and excessive current are significant causes of problems. Thermal imaging works by detecting temperature variations; when electrical components operate under imbalanced loads, specific circuits can become overloaded. This imbalance can lead to excessive current flowing through certain wires or components, which generates heat. If the current exceeds the designed capacity of the circuit, it can create hotspots detectable by thermal imaging, indicating potential failure points or risks for overheating, which could result in failure or even fire hazards.

This focus on excessive current and imbalanced loads highlights the importance of maintaining electrical systems that are properly balanced to ensure safety and efficiency. Other factors, such as voltage spikes or faulty insulation, while important considerations in electrical safety, predominantly relate to different types of electrical failures that may not be specifically indicated by thermal imaging.