Issue link: https://fhpublishing.uberflip.com/i/1057016
SITE VISIT W PD has been operating helicopters as a com- pany since SWEB (South West Electricity Board) used their first helicop- ter back in 1963. It's a history that the company is clearly proud of as there are several photos on display that showcase the advancements in technology and different types of helicopters that have graced the Unit. WPD currently has a fleet of five H135 helicopters which are used for more than line patrolling. This is a point that Robin Tutcher, WPD's Helicopter Unit manager, is keen to point out. Tutcher, who is the Civil Aviation Author - ity (CAA) approved accountable manager, is clearly passionate about the Unit. The machines are used effectively in con- struction, delivering poles and even heavier loads such as generators to inaccessible areas. All WPD helicopters have external liŽ capability of up to 750kg, depending on fuel requirements. Work includes liŽing and plant - ing poles, liŽing transformers and stringing conductors. Tutcher said: "The helicopters are used for proactive and reactive patrols of WPD's overhead network. Additionally, they can also be utilised for underslung load work, moving people or equipment and high definition film- ing or photography." Routine visual line patrol makes up 70 per cent of the Unit's work. The helicopter flies just above and to one side of the line. Trained observers, using OS maps with overlays show - ing power lines and installations, report on 55 kinds of defects and various location risks - ranging from deterioration to damage caused by storms. If the condition is urgent, details are immediately telephoned to WPD's electric - ity network control centre. "Currently the defects are identified by an authorised overhead network inspector known as an observer but the Unit does have access to thermal cameras and other helicop- ter mounted equipment to assist with defect identification," comments Tutcher. All routine work is plotted onto and stored in a computer system. NETWORK / 20 / DECEMBER 2018 / JANUARY 2019 Flying the line Western Power Distribution (WPD) is the only network operator that has its own fleet of helicopters used to detect potential faults on the overhead electricity network. The unit is based at Bristol Airport and Network editor Alec Peachey was invited to take a look around. WPD owns and operates a fleet of five H135 helicopters.