Examples of typical
overheating spots on powerlines

Above-normal operating temperatures of utility power delivery components may result from equipment damage or malfunction, and may be a sign of approaching failure.

At present, infrared (IR) thermography is the primary non-destructive method used by utilities to identify overheating and potential failures in transmission line system components. By observing and analyzing the thermal signature of an operating component, the thermographer is able to provide valuable information about the continued operability of that component.

FlyCom's airborne infrared inspection service provides electric utilities with an efficient, high-quality method of identifying and interpreting thermal faults on power delivery equipment.

Using the latest equipment, our team of trained thermographers is able to detect overheating and assist in prioritizing repair and replacement schedules.

Results can assist in reducing outages, limiting replacement costs, improving service reliability, and avoiding downtime.

For optimal preventive and predictive maintenance, especially in the area of high-end power line inspection, FlyCom has modified its Helicopters to integrate different 5-axis specialized stabilizing systems to ensure vibration-free and steady video-recording during airborne powerline inspections. Depending on the technologies used, these stabilizing gimbals are equipped with 3 different technological systems at one time.

Onboard the helicopter, a professional high-end system ensures superb image quality and high precision measurement accuracy.

Our airborne inspection services include the data analysis as well as complete and extensive documentation in print and in electronic form.

FIELDS OF APPLICATION

All power delivery components can be inspected with the IR-Thermography technology:

Transmission Lines: Components include phase conductors, conductor splices, termination hardware, and ceramic and non-ceramic insulators, etc.

Distribution Lines: Components include pole tops and hardware, switches and transformers, compression fittings and insulators, etc.

Substations: Components include capacitors and fuses, switches and buses, insulators, termination hardware and transformers, etc.