Which test is performed to identify loose connections in electrical systems?

The heat scanning test is utilized to identify loose connections in electrical systems by detecting areas of excess heat that result from poor electrical contact. When connections are loose, electrical resistance increases at the point of contact, causing elevated temperatures that can be effectively identified through thermal imaging or scanning. This method allows technicians to pinpoint issues without disassembling connections or interrupting power. Properly functioning connections will not produce significant heat, making discrepancies easy to spot during a heat scanning test.

In contrast, other tests serve different purposes: the voltage drop test measures the voltage loss along a circuit under load, helping to diagnose issues with conductors but not specifically focused on connection integrity. The insulation resistance test assesses the dielectric strength and integrity of insulating materials, ensuring that there are no leaks or failures within the insulation. The continuity test checks whether an electrical path is complete, confirming whether a circuit is open or closed, but it does not provide information about connection stability or the potential heat generated by loose connections.