CLEVELAND, Jan. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PLP and
FulcrumAir have partnered to launch the world's most advanced
automated robotic system for installing helically-shaped bird
diverters on overhead power lines. The Mini LineFly™ is a
revolutionary unmanned system that automatically and precisely
installs PLP's BIRD-FLIGHT™ Diverters on overhead lines, helping to
significantly reduce safety concerns for lineworkers while also
exponentially increasing project efficiency.
"We are excited to collaborate with FulcrumAir to launch this
newest addition to our expanding lineup of robotic installation
solutions," said Ryan
Ruhlman, President of PLP. "The Mini LineFly not only
offers the most efficient method for installing bird diverters but,
more significantly, contributes to enhancing the safety environment
for utility workers around the world."
The Mini LineFly accurately places PLP BIRD-FLIGHT Diverters at
predetermined intervals, maximizing the performance to help
safeguard wildlife from accidental contact with power lines. This
critical wildlife protection device reduces the probability of
unintended bird collisions by enhancing line visibility, helping to
protect diverse avian species and mitigate potential costly and
problematic power outages.
The first implementation of robotically installed PLP
BIRD-FLIGHT Diverters took place during the recent High Banks Wind
Project in Kansas. Nearly 15,000
bird diverters were installed using robotics along the 75-mile 345
kV transmission line spanning Marshall, Republic, and Washington counties. The High Banks Wind
Project delivers approximately 600 megawatts of dependable
renewable energy to customers in the American Midwest.
"We are extremely pleased with how the Mini LineFly performed
during this demanding project," said Patrick Arnell, President & CEO of
FulcrumAir. "Our mission is to develop and operate equipment
that assists electric utilities with the industry's ongoing
challenges, including staffing shortages, the increased need for
safer work sites, and overall project efficiency requirements."
Alongside the Mini LineFly, PLP and FulcrumAir also recently
introduced the CSR-18™ Robot, a state-of-the-art robotic
installation system designed for PLP CUSHION-GRIP® Twin Spacers.
Both cutting-edge robotic solutions are fully operational
worldwide, with multiple projects initiated globally.
ABOUT PLP
PLP protects the world's most critical connections by creating
stronger and more reliable networks. The company's
precision-engineered solutions are trusted by energy and
communications providers worldwide to perform better and last
longer. With locations in over 20 countries, PLP works as a united
global corporation, delivering high-quality products and
unparalleled service to customers around the world.
ABOUT FULCRUMAIR
Founded in 2016 and having invested over 60,000 hours into
design and engineering to date, FulcrumAir is a leader in
developing robotic solutions for the powerline industry.
FulcrumAir's portfolio of UAVs and aerial robotics are specifically
designed to address critical challenges facing electric utilities
by robotically performing line construction tasks such as
installing line spacers and bird flight diverters. Additional
robotic solutions are currently under development.
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SOURCE Preformed Line Products