Tower and Substation Analysis

Tower Analysis

Network Mapping provides survey and engineering support for transmission line towers using our terrestrial laser scanner.

• Tower distortion - The scanners ability to scan directly upwards allows measurements to be taken at the top of structures even when working room on the ground is limited. We can then report the angle of lean and displacement of the centroid at the top of a tower in relation to the centroid at the base. We can also cut sections through the tower at set intervals to measure the diagonals and report on any lozenging of the tower.

• As-built survey - to create a 3D photographic model of the tower.

• Thermal survey - to determine points of high resistance, circuit breakers etc.

• Antenna placement - including line of sight survey and checks of structural integrity following antenna placement.

• Tower movement - over time can be monitored by scanning the area once every 3 to 6 months, and comparing the datasets.

• Ground movement - In areas of suspected ground movement we can also survey the ground to produce a high resolution DTM (Digital Terrain Model) of the ground around each of the towers, usually a 50 m radius.

A complex mesh will be made from the ground data on each visit.

Network Mapping can produce a photomontage of an area, showing the view before and after placement of a mast. This can be used to assist in the planning application process and visual impact assessment.

The view from a mast or tower can be captured with the terrestrial laser scanner, and stitched together to create a complete 3D, 360° panorama of the surrounding area.

Substation Analysis

Network Mapping provides a range of services for use in sub-station design and maintenance.

• Downlead line entry survey - accurate measurements, such as radial clearances between electrified components and measurements for replacement components.

• As-built survey - to create accurate CAD models of a substation for future design work.

• Thermal survey - to determine points of high resistance, circuit breakers etc.

• Ground Penetrating Radar - to detect underground services in the vicinity of a substation.

• Topographic survey - for subsidence detection and CAD design.