The length and complexity of high-voltage transmission line cables is continuously increasing and current visual inspection techniques are inadequate. New ultrasound technology will have a major positive impact on the power industry.
Although there is increasing pressure to place cables underground, the total percentage of such cables is very low and likely to remain so for the foreseeable future. The cables operate in severe conditions and are subject to degradation and defects due to factors including moisture, voltage stress and structural damage. Currently, inspection is done visually either by teams of personnel on foot or by helicopters, both of which are time consuming, dangerous and of limited effectiveness.
Further details: Advanced non-destructive monitoring of power cables