EPRI Tests Confirm Drone Technology Could Accelerate Outage Restoration

May 1, 2012
The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has completed tests determining that unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, can be used effectively to assess

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has completed tests determining that unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, can be used effectively to assess storm damage on utility distribution systems.

Conducted at the New Mexico State University Flight Test Center, the tests involved navigating several aircraft technologies and using high-resolution video cameras to transmit images of power lines from a height of 5,000 ft to 7,000 ft (1,524 m to 2,134 m). The tests determined that such images can be used by electric utilities to assess damage and pinpoint its location following a storm.

In the wake of a storm, damage assessment is frequently a choke point in power restoration due largely to obstacles, such as downed trees blocking roads or icy conditions that make it extremely difficult for utility crews to get to and report on distribution line damage.

“Our research clearly shows that drones may provide utilities a tool that could reduce outage-restoration time,” said Matthew Olearczyk, senior program manager for distribution research at EPRI. “Using live steaming video information, utility system operators would be able to dramatically improve damage assessment.”

With more accurate and timely information, system operators can better dispatch crews, establish repair priorities, and communicate timely and accurate information to customers. Researchers assessed several drone technologies, looking at aircraft performance, control systems and payloads. The tests indicated that unmanned airborne technologies equipped with sensors, cameras and GPS could be deployed faster, allowing utilities to evaluate large areas more quickly than ground-based crews, then develop a repair strategy and mobilize crews quickly and effectively.

EPRI also will be evaluating drones and remote-sensing technologies for inspection and assessment of overhead transmission lines. As part of this research, functional requirements will be identified for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) inspection and market surveys will identify available UAV inspection technologies, services and their costs.

For more information, visit www.epri.com.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of T&D World, create an account today!