aps
APS Takes to the Skies: Drone Inspections Revolutionize Line Maintenance
On February 24, Arizona Public Service (APS) utilized drone technology for an inspection of power lines at the Turkey Creek Trail East Parking Lot. This initiative aimed to assess damage and manage vegetation growth in the area.
The drones employed by APS are equipped with high-definition and infrared cameras, enabling the inspection team to identify issues like wear and tear, vandalism, and encroaching vegetation. The inclusion of GPS technology aids in tracking the inspection routes. The infrared capabilities are particularly valuable; they help detect hot spots that could indicate potential equipment failure, offering a proactive approach to maintenance.
“A hot spot indicates a high resistance connection. Normally, electricity generates minimal heat, but a high resistance connection can lead to overheating, which signals impending failure,” explained Jaryd Burt, a preventative maintenance technician at APS. Detecting such issues early allows for planned outages and repairs, enhancing reliability.
For each drone inspection, a team member operates the drone while another person monitors airspace for safety. Compliance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines mandates that a clear line of sight with the drone must be maintained at all times. Under optimal conditions, visibility can extend up to a mile, though environmental factors sometimes limit this range.
Burt elaborated on the preparation process, “We typically select a staging area and plan to inspect two-mile sections of power lines in both directions.” This methodical approach ensures thorough inspections while minimizing downtime.
APS has around 15 certified drone pilots managing a fleet of approximately 20 drones, with specialized teams focusing on predictive maintenance. Each drone has a flight duration of roughly 22 minutes, allowing for the examination of 20 to 30 poles per charge.
Annual inspections of distribution lines in fire mitigation zones, including the Village of Oak Creek, occur between January 1 and May 1. APS aims to complete all necessary repairs by May 31, meeting regulatory deadlines for reporting to federal oversight bodies.
Post-deadline inspections shift to non-fire mitigation areas, with a cycle that typically ranges from five to ten years based on voltage levels. APS leverages an AI program to evaluate environmental risk factors such as humidity and ground moisture, enhancing wildfire risk assessments.
In addition, APS is adopting algorithms for smoke detection, having already implemented systems in locations like Oak Creek Canyon and Jerome, with plans to expand coverage in the Verde Valley. These innovations reflect APS’s commitment to safety and community protection in the face of environmental challenges.
