Transforming asset inspections with latest Condition Monitoring innovation project
Following an 18-month project, a new innovative method of monitoring the health of electricity transmission assets has been developed by SSEN Transmission, in collaboration with i4 Asset Management (i4AM).
During this proof-of-concept initiative – which was funded by Ofgem’s Network Innovation Allowance (NIA) – a prototype system was developed and trialled, using data collection, asset geo-tagging and a guided routine checklist on an app to enhance infrastructure inspection processes.
Substations host a range of complex components and insight into the health of those assets is needed to identify any future upgrade or replacement work required. This innovative project has introduced the use of a handheld device with a visual script checklist that guides operatives to capture the correct images at precise locations on site, ensuring repeatable, thorough and structured inspections.
The data collected is geo-tagged and feeds directly into a centralised dashboard that can be shared between sites, helping to track changes to asset conditions. As our network continues to grow to deliver on energy security and clean power targets, this project can enable a larger volume of quality data to be collected at our substations, which could support efficient decision-making and optimised asset maintenance programmes.
Thorough testing of the prototype device has taken place at two operational sites, with feedback from users directly influencing further refinements. Once finalised, our Condition Monitoring, Operations and Innovation teams gathered at the Moray Training Centre with i4AM for three days of hands-on training - starting with a thermal imaging course, building on existing knowledge, and app testing.
The innovative project is one of many ways we’re exploring to monitor our assets. There’s potential to build on the knowledge gained with this proof-of-concept project too, including integration of advanced technologies such as computer vision.
Ryan Flett, Innovation Delivery Project Manager said:
"This innovative project is a great example of how collaboration can help harness and build on existing industry knowledge. Working with i4AM, we’ve been able to trial new ways to modernise our asset condition monitoring programme and upskill our employees in the process. The proof-of-concept project highlights SSEN Transmission’s commitment to identifying value-adding innovations to improve our existing and future network.”
Carl Johnstone, Director at i4AM said:
“It was a pleasure to work alongside SSEN Transmission’s innovation and asset management teams, along with onsite engineers, to bring new technology to asset inspections. This project really showed how efficiently we can capture and share valuable knowledge, making a real difference for everyone involved.”