Project 35.001 – Overhead Transmission Inspection and Assessment

Inspection and Assessment Reference Book (The Yellow Book) Update: This reference book is intended to be an evolving resource designed to become a single living repository of information on the inspection and assessment of overhead transmission lines. In 2027, EPRI intends to make updates in the reference book related to use of unmanned aerial vehicles for inspection of overhead transmission systems as well as new and emerging inspection technologies.

Inspection Field Guides Update: EPRI’s field guides provide personnel access to in-service inspection guidance for dozens of transmission line components, with the convenience of remote access. As transmission line research advances, the knowledge related to inspection and assessment of various assets is identified and developed into a mobile field guide that provides a media-rich transfer of information that includes the asset condition and what actions to take. In 2027, EPRI intends to update the media content and update conditions assessment to reflect the most recent learnings and improve the accessibility and relevance of the guides.

Evaluate New and Emerging Inspection Technologies: This task focuses on inventorying and evaluating the efficacy, practicality, and application of new and emerging inspection technologies. EPRI plans to monitor new technologies on its Tech Radar website as well as evaluate the early fault detection (EFD) technology, which utilizes radio frequency sensors and advanced analysis to detect and locate failing assets.

Development of an Asset Reliability & Availability Model: This task focuses on the development an Asset Reliability and Availability Model for overhead transmission lines with a specific focus on the selection of appropriate maintenance regimes. Many utilities face the challenges of aging infrastructure and how best to handle the end of life of these assets. This model aims to use historic data as well as various other utility inputs to guide users to a selection of an appropriate maintenance practice per asset. In 2027, EPRI intends to investigate and start the development of such model.

Cohost an UAS Workshop: This task is aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of professionals involved in the inspection of overhead transmission, distribution, and substation systems using unmanned aerial systems. This workshop will provide participants with insights into best practices, emerging technologies, and methodologies for effective assessment and assets. By bringing together industry experts and utility representatives, the workshop will facilitate discussions on challenges faced in the field, share lessons learned from past experiences, and promote collaboration among utilities to improve overall safety and reliability in power delivery.

Provide Tools and Resources on The Transmission Resource Center: The following calculators, tools, result summaries, and references are planned to be available on the Inspection and Assessment Transmission Resource Center: