High-flying solution: FirstEnergy employs helicopters to upgrade power lines
FirstEnergy Corp's subsidiary, American Transmission Systems, Inc. (ATSI), has deployed helicopter crews to upgrade power lines in Ohio. ATSI employs a "live line maintenance technique" that enables crews to work on energized power lines.
The helicopter crews can access the lines quickly and efficiently, performing tasks that would otherwise require a power line shutdown. This approach minimizes power outages for customers and reduces the duration of work on the lines.
The technique is also helpful in reaching inaccessible areas that are hard to access using conventional methods. The helicopter crews undergo training to work safely and efficiently on live power lines and use specialized equipment to protect themselves from electrical hazards.
According to FirstEnergy, the use of helicopter crews has been successful, and they plan to continue employing the technique to upgrade power lines throughout Ohio. This innovative approach helps utility companies upgrade their power infrastructure efficiently while minimizing disruptions for customers.
Source:
FirstEnergy Corp. (2022, March 20). FirstEnergy Installs New High-Voltage Wires in Northwest Ohio. FirstEnergy Corp. https://www.firstenergycorp.com/newsroom/news_articles/firstenergy-installs-new-high-voltage-wires-in-northwest-ohio-to.html#:~:text=AKRON%2C%20Ohio%2C%20March%2020%2C,area%20are%20out%20of%20service