Overview
Birdseye’s Voliro T drone integrated with a Dry Film Thickness (DFT) gauge revolutionized the inspection of 380 kV transmission towers. It assessed the thickness of protective coatings, which is critical for ensuring structural integrity and long-term performance.
These towers are constantly exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Adequate coating thickness acts as a barrier against moisture and corrosive elements. Voliro T has now made it possible to integrate DFT measurements into routine inspections, enhancing tower protection and reliability.
Challenges
- Safety Risks in Manual Inspections: Traditional inspections involve climbing tall structures, increasing the risk of falls and worker injury.
- Maximized Operational Downtime: Power lines had to be shut down for safety during manual inspections, disrupting service and revenue flow.
- Time-Consuming Processes: Manual inspections are labor-intensive and reduce the number of towers that can be inspected daily.
Solutions Delivered by Birdseye
- Accelerated Safety and Efficiency: Voliro T with DFT gauges collects data without human entry, enhancing safety and reducing risk.
- Increased Inspection Efficiency: A single operator can inspect up to 10 towers per day, reducing time and labor costs.
- Minimized Downtime: Inspections can be conducted while the power lines remain active, avoiding service interruptions.
Outcome Summary
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Safety | No human climbing needed; inspections done remotely by drone. |
| Efficiency | Up to 10 towers inspected daily by a single operator. |
| Downtime | Zero interruption to power lines during inspections. |
| Data Accuracy | Real-time, reliable coating thickness data captured for asset planning. |
Conclusion
The integration of Dry Film Thickness (DFT) measurement with Birdseye’s Voliro T drone has set a new benchmark for critical infrastructure inspection. It ensures safe, fast, and cost-efficient monitoring of coating integrity, even under demanding environmental conditions. With the ability to inspect up to 10 towers daily, this approach enhances planning accuracy, reduces risks, and protects long-term asset performance.
