Research & Development

The rapid advancement of robotics is making inroads to the power delivery industry. While remote robotic maintenance of transmission lines is in its infancy, the potential for growth is unbounded. Initial testing has been undertaken up to 230 kV on wireless communication systems interfacing with FRP robotic manipulators. These controls are equipped with HAPTIC feedback response to provide remote operators with work zone control as well as a visual monitoring system. Bringing the academic side of R&D to the work place application is one of TKO Consulting’s specialties.

Long arc energy is a challenging aspect of determining worker safety in relation to FR rated clothing and protective devices. Transmission live line methods place workers in close proximity to potential fault or flashover exposure involving long arc energies. Testing has been done to relate HV arc flash to exposure limits. 

There is a wide body of knowledge associated with contamination flashover of FRP tools. Ongoing research  involves investigating ways of mitigating these effects on tool performance relative to various climatic conditions.