State Grid Wuxi Power Supply Company Performs High-Altitude Live-Line Maintenance Using Helicopter for the First Time

On the morning of November 3, along a high-voltage transmission line in Wuxi, a helicopter slowly ascended. Suspended beneath it was a power worker clad in special protective gear. Using an insulated rope, the worker was precisely and steadily hoisted to a position dozens of meters above the power line to repair a damaged section. Throughout the entire process, the power line remained fully energized, without causing any disruption to electricity supply for businesses and residents.

This operation marks the first time that State Grid Wuxi Power Supply Company has utilized a helicopter to complete a high-altitude power maintenance task. This method is not only efficient and safe but also signifies an innovative step forward in Wuxi's power grid maintenance technology.

In October of this year, maintenance personnel identified damage to an optical fiber cable on this transmission line. If left unaddressed, this damage could have compromised grid safety. Considering the high altitude and complex environment of the worksite, where traditional maintenance methods would be time-consuming and might require a power outage, technicians ultimately decided to use a helicopter to transport the worker directly to the high-altitude point. This allowed the repair to be completed without de-energizing the line.

On the day of the operation, personnel first measured on-site meteorological conditions such as wind speed and humidity to confirm they met safety standards. Once the helicopter arrived, it precisely positioned itself near the target transmission tower and hoisted the worker to the designated location. The worker then used professional materials to reinforce the damaged section of the cable in mid-air, successfully completing the repair.