Condition based risk assessment of electricity towers using high resolution images from a helicopter

This paper describes a high resolution image capture system developed by EA Technology for the purpose of performing detailed inspections of power line towers from a helicopter. The system aims to overcome many of the limitations associated with conventional inspection methods. It combines detailed photographic recording with the satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS) and moving map displays to produce a permanent record of the condition of each tower inspected. The advantages of detailed information capture and archiving/auditing, coupled with ease, speed and a non-intrusive inspection process are demonstrated. The paper concludes by showing how the captured tower condition information is used both to initiate essential maintenance, and also to form the basis of a Condition Based Risk Management (CBRM) regime developed by EA Technology. This helps to predict remaining asset life span and assists network operators in determining their optimum investment strategy.