Project IVI proofs safe and efficient substation automation

Spanish utility Red Eléctrica, in collaboration with Elewit, Redeia’s technological platform, Robotnik, BCB and Orange, have concluded the pilot project Visual Inspections in Installations (IVI), which finds that cameras in conjunction with automated vehicles can automate substation inspections without compromising safety or efficiency.

Aiming to enhance the reliability and functionality of critical infrastructure assets like power lines, pylons and data transmission optical fibres, project IVI worked to improve the visual inspection process of substation regardless of the fraction of the electromagnetic spectrum in which partial discharges are located (ultraviolet spectrum).

It also included visual inspections of assets to determine degrees of wear and other potential defects, as well as the detection of SF6 and hot spots (infrared spectrum).

Key findings from the IVI project’s feasibility studies include:

• Cameras in conjunction with a mobile Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) proved capable of automating inspection processes in electrical substations, yielding efficiency gains without compromising safety or operations.

• While 5G technology was initially identified as an ideal communication protocol, it was determined that 4G could also effectively support the project’s technology components, ensuring project efficiency. Therefore, this protocol has been adapted at the substation for these inspections which guarantees the efficiency of the project.

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Project IVI

To explore these potential efficiencies in asset maintenance, project IVI employed a sensor system and communication protocol designed to support the flow of generated information. This information would then be evaluated by technicians aided by artificial intelligence-based algorithms.

The Morvedre electricity substation in Valencia was selected as the testing ground for the IVI project.

The substation was equipped with sensors for SF6 leak detection, along with cameras sensitive to the entire electromagnetic spectrum, including the visible, infrared, and ultraviolet ranges.

These cameras were installed on fixed poles and an AGV, programmed to navigate the substation autonomously, collecting information in a controlled manner.

The data collected during these inspections was transmitted and analysed using 5G technology, chosen for its low latency and high bandwidth capabilities, making it suitable for the project’s needs.

Implemented under the framework of the National 5G Plan, project IVI has been concluded with project ASUMO announced by Elewit as its successor.

Announced earlier in 2023 and developed by Elewit and Red Eléctrica alongside partners, project ASUMO combines additional technologies, including AI and digital twins, to enhance data collection.

Red Eléctrica, a company under the Redeia umbrella, oversees over 45,000km of high-voltage lines and more than 6,000 substations.