Solar Aerial Inspections
Aerial thermal imaging for inspection of photo-voltaic modules is one of our core competencies. Infrared imaging detects defective panel cells, connection points and complete arrays that form individual electrical phases. Damage from environmental heating/cooling, lighting strikes, and moisture intrusion can seriously affect the integrity of solar systems. Our inspections validate new installations and facilitate maximum operational output from existing infrastructure. Regularly scheduled inspections and automated reporting maintain solar panel efficiency and operation.
The data in our reports include GPS tagged identifiers allowing precise positional recording of array defects or local hot spots. Our UASs are piloted by FAA Commercially Licensed Pilots, each with at least 10 years of experience flying both manned and unmanned aircraft for the United States Air Force. Our video feed can be securely streamed to computers, tablets or smartphones in real-time which enables our customers to participate in the inspection process.
The data in our reports include GPS tagged identifiers allowing precise positional recording of array defects or local hot spots. Our UASs are piloted by FAA Commercially Licensed Pilots, each with at least 10 years of experience flying both manned and unmanned aircraft for the United States Air Force. Our video feed can be securely streamed to computers, tablets or smartphones in real-time which enables our customers to participate in the inspection process.
High Voltage Towers
Over time mechanical components supporting high voltage lines fatigue, and electrical isolators crack and break down. Costly helicopters overfly the lines and personnel climb the towers to perform necessary inspections. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, remove the human element from this dangerous environment – allowing operators to get detailed images of this equipment at a safe distance, and at a fraction of the cost. To safely perform effective inspections, we utilize a drone that provides crystal clear photos and video of a K68 bolt from 100’ away with enough clarity for an inspector to see 4 exposed threads on the bolt.
So, why should you fly 100’ away from the tower? The power lines may be transmitting at potentials as high as 765 kV! Flying in close proximity could subject any aircraft to “Flashover.” As a lightning bolt arcs from clouds to the ground, electricity in power lines is compelled to “arc” to any proximate object having a different electrical potential (such as the many components of a small UAV). The result, in addition to the loss of the aircraft, is a power outage. The drone we utilize offers unrivaled positional accuracy and flight control among small UAVs. It will reliably maintain its position in the air, even in sustained winds up to 65kph. Whether you’re planning preventative maintenance, analyzing structural integrity or assessing damage to critical components, you won’t get a closer or clearer image without putting personnel at risk. With a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV you can achieve vantage points not even possible by a technician climbing a tower.
So, why should you fly 100’ away from the tower? The power lines may be transmitting at potentials as high as 765 kV! Flying in close proximity could subject any aircraft to “Flashover.” As a lightning bolt arcs from clouds to the ground, electricity in power lines is compelled to “arc” to any proximate object having a different electrical potential (such as the many components of a small UAV). The result, in addition to the loss of the aircraft, is a power outage. The drone we utilize offers unrivaled positional accuracy and flight control among small UAVs. It will reliably maintain its position in the air, even in sustained winds up to 65kph. Whether you’re planning preventative maintenance, analyzing structural integrity or assessing damage to critical components, you won’t get a closer or clearer image without putting personnel at risk. With a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV you can achieve vantage points not even possible by a technician climbing a tower.