Transmission-line joints, compression sleeves and dead-end clamps carry both electrical current and long-term mechanical loads.
Some internal problems may not be visible from the outside. A fitting can appear normal while the conductor inside may have abnormal positioning, inconsistent compression, broken strands, gaps or foreign material.
If the fitting cannot be dismantled, how can its internal condition be checked?
Digital X-ray imaging provides a direct way to look inside.
Inspect the internal structure without dismantling the fitting
During an inspection, the X-ray source and digital detector are positioned on opposite sides of the fitting. X-rays pass through the object, and the detector produces an image of its internal structure.
Depending on the material, thickness and inspection angle, the image can help operators evaluate:
- The position and direction of the conductor inside the fitting;
- Alignment and continuity of internal components;
- Visible strand damage, displacement or significant gaps;
- Foreign material or abnormal density areas;
- Differences between similar fittings or between inspections performed at different times.
The original image can also be saved, measured, annotated and compared, creating a traceable record for future maintenance decisions.
How is PX3-HV deployed on a transmission line?
TRACELINE™ PX3-HV combines the PX3 digital X-ray imaging system with one of two line-deployment options.
Fixed Suspension Fixture
Designed for targeted inspection at a known joint or fitting. The fixture keeps the X-ray source and detector securely positioned on opposite sides of the inspection object.
After one inspection is completed, the system can be moved to the next selected location.
Remote Mobile Inspection Robot
Designed for projects requiring inspection at multiple points along the conductor.
The robot travels between inspection locations under remote control, reducing repeated lifting, installation and repositioning work.
The fixed fixture and mobile robot are separate deployment options. The appropriate configuration can be selected according to the line structure, number of inspection points and site conditions.
How is the system controlled at height?
PX3-HV is intended for inspection after the line has been de-energized, verified and properly grounded.
Once the equipment has been installed and aligned, the operator controls the exposure and receives the images through remote wireless communication. There is no need to run a long control cable from the ground to the equipment installed on the line.
Depending on the terrain, working distance and line-of-sight conditions, an optional directional communication system can extend the remote-control and image-transmission distance to approximately 1.5 kilometres.
Battery-powered operation also reduces the need for external power connections during deployment.
Where can digital X-ray inspection add value?
PX3-HV can support:
- Quality inspection of newly installed compression fittings;
- Internal-condition assessment of in-service joints and clamps;
- Further structural investigation of abnormal hot spots;
- Image comparison before and after maintenance;
- Development of reference images and inspection records.
Digital X-ray imaging does not replace every power-line inspection method. Image quality and defect visibility depend on the fitting material, thickness, structure, inspection angle, X-ray source and detector configuration.
The images should therefore be evaluated by trained personnel together with visual, thermal and other relevant inspection results.
TRACELINE™ PX3-HV can be configured for de-energized inspection work on 110 kV, 220 kV and 500 kV overhead transmission lines, using an appropriate X-ray source, digital detector and deployment fixture.
A problem that cannot be seen from the outside may still exist inside the fitting.
Digital X-ray imaging helps maintenance teams inspect internal structures without dismantling the connection—providing images that can be reviewed, saved and compared over time.
PX3-HV is designed for de-energized and grounded line inspection. It is not intended for live-line operation.
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