Transgrid is set to begin employing drone technology for safer and more efficient inspections of transmission towers.
Drones will be used to inspect steel lattice towers and steel and concrete poles throughout Transgrid’s 13,000km transmission line network.
“Every year as part of our comprehensive maintenance program we inspect 6,500 towers and structures across the network. Previously that would involve workers physically climbing those structures to assess their condition,” Transgrid Executive General Manager of Network Marie Jordan said.
Jordan stated that advancements in technology enable drone-based inspections, reducing risks and improving efficiency in data collection and management of infrastructure.
“This program will help us digitise the information collected and create a better picture of the asset condition over time as we embark on our next phase of artificial intelligence and machine learning which will bring many new possibilities,” she added.
According to Transgrid, the decision was made after years of development and successful trials.
The network’s Maintenance Engineering and Asset Management teams carried out trials and field demonstrations to compare traditional climbing inspections with drone capability.
During the trials, a pilot operated the drone while a qualified line worker watched live footage on an on-site screen. The inspections were carried out similarly to climbing inspections, allowing for a direct comparison of the two methods.
According to the findings, drones are a potential option for workers climbing steel lattice structures and concrete or steel poles. Drone inspections were found to be up to 50% more efficient than traditional climbing inspections while also greatly enhancing worker safety.
“Because the drones can be deployed remotely, it means we can reduce the need to access private properties for asset inspections. By embracing technology, we can work smarter and deliver better outcomes for the community,” Jordan said.
