sUAS Tower Inspections
A typical UAS tower inspection is meticulously designed to enhance safety and ensure structural integrity. One of the primary advantages of using an Unmanned Aerial System is the significant reduction in the need for climbers to physically ascend the tower. This minimizes the inherent risks associated with high-altitude inspections, providing a safer alternative that safeguards personnel while still delivering comprehensive results. The UAS, equipped with high-definition cameras and advanced sensors, performs an extensive aerial survey of the tower’s structure.
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The inspection focuses on critical aspects of structural safety, including a thorough evaluation of the tower’s joints, bolts, and welds. Special attention is given to the guy wire anchors, which are essential for maintaining the tower’s stability. The UAS captures detailed images of these anchor surfaces to assess their condition, identifying any signs of corrosion, damage, or wear that could impact the tower’s performance. This level of detail ensures that any potential issues are detected early and addressed promptly.
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Incorporating thermal imaging into the inspection further enhances its efficacy. The UAS’s thermal camera detects temperature variations across the tower and its components, highlighting potential issues such as overheating or electrical faults that are not visible through standard visual inspection. This technology provides a deeper understanding of the tower’s condition by revealing underlying problems that might otherwise go unnoticed.
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The comprehensive data collected during the inspection is compiled into a detailed deliverable, which includes annotated images, video footage, and thermal images. This report offers a clear and actionable overview of the tower’s condition, enabling engineers and maintenance teams to make informed decisions about necessary repairs or adjustments. By reviewing this deliverable, decision-makers can prioritize maintenance tasks, ensure the tower's structural integrity, and maintain high standards of safety and performance.