Application of advanced condition assessment and asset management techniques on steel tower overhead line electricity networks

Through example, this paper discusses how a clear “Line of Sight” has been established throughout an asset management process for overhead line steel towers. Several condition assessment methods are presented, each with an emphasis on collecting consistent, accurate condition information suitable to gain maximum benefit from Condition Based Risk Management, itself a process which allows companies to use current asset information to justify and optimise future intervention expenditure. The example presented here demonstrates how the processes have been integrated within Northern Powergrid, a major UK Distribution Network Operator, as key components within their adopted inspection and refurbishment strategy for overhead lines.