Helicopter
Programmed Inspections
Aeropower’s methodical inspection provides assets owners with the detail they require to manage their assets. Whether for defect identification or condition assessment, an aerial methodical inspection is efficient and cost effective.
The helicopter provides a flexible mobile observation platform for performing a methodical inspection, enabling the lineworker to operate in close proximity to the line / structure and to identify defects as small as displaced split pins or cracked insulators.
Aeropower uses qualified Inspectors to inspect and assess the assets in real time by flying in close proximity to the structure and its components, hovering at pre-selected locations to enable the accurate identification of defects and/or the assessment of component condition.
With a focus on providing succinct, timely and actionable data, defects are photographed and prioritised / classified in the air. This enables the timely reporting of high priority defects as well as the capture of additional photographs to provide context and to support defect rectification planning. Where required, photographs of towers or nominated components can be taken for ‘record purposes’.
Aeropower’s proprietary software, AMS (Asset Management Solution) is used to plan, execute and analyse the inspection. AMS provides the inspection crew with asset location data, existing defect information, hazards and no-fly zone data.
Aeropower methodical inspections are conducted in accordance with industry guidelines (ENA NENS 08-2006 Aerial Surveillance of Overhead Electricity Networks), customer requirements and Civil Aviation Regulations.
Pre-commissioning Inspections
Aeropower’s methodical inspection methodology can be used to cost effectively inspect newly constructed assets as part of the hand-over and pre-commissioning process. An aerial inspection enables the timely identification and rectification of defects prior to the asset being commissioned.
UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) / RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aerial System)
Whilst the helicopter remains one of the most efficient and effective means of undertaking a detailed inspection of powerline assets, there are some locations where it is not possible or practical to operate a helicopter at low levels due to proximity to built-up areas, livestock, airports and other restricted areas. In such locations, Aeropower can complete the methodical inspection using a UAV/RPAS (unmanned aerial vehicle / remotely piloted aerial system).
During a UAV/RPAS inspection, the UAV is flown in close proximity to the line, stopping at pre-selected locations to take photographs of key inspection points. The UAV is flown by an experienced pilot, with the inspector directing the flight by viewing progress on a video screen. Photographs and defect information are recorded in Aeropower’s AMS software following the flight for analysis and reporting.
Aeropower uses high-end UAVs capable of a payload suitable for carrying the required cameras and for safe operations in the high EMF (electromagnetic field) environment.