Drones are faster, safer, and provide precise data from multiple angles. Using drones, you could average about 20-30mins per tower, and we found that the increase in efficiency can be significant. Like in the case of SEC, we saw an 80% increase in inspection efficiency. Organizations looking to upgrade their inspection process and improve their grid reliability can achieve their goals by starting their own drone operations program.
When it comes to drone-based powerline inspection, the drones are frequently exposed to Electromagnetic Interference, can be challenging. However, regardless of whether it is required by law or not, organizations should consider getting their team trained by professionals to conduct inspections. Getting trained is a cost-effective investment that saves you time and effort by eliminating rookie mistakes and workplace mishaps. In addition, you drastically improve your mission success rate and efficiency by equipping your team with the skills and knowledge they need to prosper.
TRANSCO (Abu Dhabi Transmission & Despatch Company) is one of the leading power distribution companies in the UAE with over 9000 km of overhead lines. They have a strong commitment to improving worker safety and improving their performance. Drones can help do both- improve safety and performance. FEDS- Drone Powered Solutions conducted training for TRANSCO’s team, effectively making them the first power and utilities company in UAE to have their own drone operations team.
The drone of choice for powerline inspections is the M-300 RTK. While inspecting power lines, you generally need visual data (RBG) and thermal data. These two combined give you a pretty comprehensive insight into the health of your grid. While with most drones, you would have to fly two separate flights to collect the required data, the M-300 paired with the Zenmuse H20T can collect all the data in a 20-30 min flight. Another feature that makes the M-300 ideal for drone-based powerline inspection is the increased resistance to EMI. So what you have is a safe, reliable, and efficient drone platform to fulfill all your inspection needs.
Drones can be integrated into every step of the process, from planning to execution to analysis. Integrating drones streamlines your operations and helps your teams function more efficiently as a cohesive unit. In addition, drone data gives you superior control over the entire operation, providing relevant data to the appropriate parties while providing a comprehensive overview.
Apart from being trained with the M-300 RTK, the TRANSCO team tested DJI’s Phantom 4 RTK as well.
Beyond just as a means to comply with any local drone laws and regulations, receiving training from a professional organization can be beneficial in multiple ways. You gain industry knowledge along with best practices, tips, and tricks. If you’re interested in starting your own drone program or training, please reach out to us.
