The State Grid Shanghai Jiading Power Supply Company has introduced X-ray flaw detection technology for the first time during the acceptance process of the Xingrong 110-kilovolt transmission line project. The advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) method aims to ensure precision inspection and strengthen the safety and reliability of overhead transmission lines.
The project specifically focused on NY-400/35BG compression-type tension clamps. Unlike bolt-type clamps, internal defects such as cracks, inclusions, burrs, and pores cannot be visually identified but can compromise safety, leading to overheating or fractures.
"X-ray" flaw detection technology is a non-destructive testing method for internal defects in materials. The principle is that when X-rays penetrate metal materials, the materials have different absorption and scattering effects on the X-rays, creating images of varying darkness on the film," explained an official.
During inspections, operators positioned the X-ray machine on conductors, recording detailed internal images of the tension clamps, akin to performing a "CT scan". Real-time images were transmitted to a monitoring computer, where experts analyzed data to identify hidden defects such as cracks, off-center cores, or wire strand damage. This advanced approach effectively prevents safety accidents caused by internal flaws and ensures rigorous quality checks during project acceptance.
In addition to X-ray inspections, drones were deployed to conduct comprehensive examinations of facilities, including steel pipe pole foundations, bolt fastening, conductors, insulator strings, grounding wires, and other fixtures. Drones captured high-resolution images and videos of hard-to-access components, transmitting data in real-time to on-site laptops for expert analysis and comparison. This multi-faceted inspection strategy has significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of the acceptance process.
The company stated its plans to expand research and testing on advanced inspection technologies like X-ray flaw detection, exploring new application scenarios and integrating three-dimensional acceptance models to enhance the safety of transmission lines and promote the high-quality development of the distribution network.
This innovative initiative underlines the State Grid Shanghai Jiading Power Supply Company’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge NDT methods to ensure operational safety and reliability. By combining precision tools like X-ray technology and drones, the company is setting new standards in power infrastructure inspection and maintenance.
Reference: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202412/17/WS6760e31ea310f1265a1d3530.html
