SSEN Transmission’s Blackhillock HVDC switching station in Keith, Scotland has deployed a new autonomous robot, known as EXTRM MK4.1, to help check electrical equipment.
The robot developed by Ross Robotics is used in electricity high-voltage converter stations to help monitor and inspect electrical components, identify faults or future maintenance requirements. It was introduced following a successful two-week trial at SSEN Transmission’s Noss Head switching station in Wick in 2023.
The robot is built to withstand the extreme high-voltage electricity systems and is fitted with a series of cameras and sensors including advanced visual imaging, thermal imaging and acoustic imaging to find abnormalities which enable valuable data to be collected. The data is collated for asset operators to make informed decisions in relation to any future maintenance.
The robot has four all-terrain wheels and weighs around 25 kg. It returns to its charging port in the hall after finishing a pre-programmed route of the building.
The project is part of SSEN Transmission’s Network Innovation Allowance AIM High project, which aims to find innovative ways to help ensure the transmission network in the north of Scotland continues to operate safely and efficiently.
“Engineers cannot enter the halls when they are energized, and any innovation which can help us mitigate against unplanned outages, efficiently monitor our equipment in real-time while is a huge advantage to the north of Scotland transmission network,” said Tania Shaw, SSEN Transmission Innovation Project Manager.
