Project Conan (T2)

Completed

Other Power and Storage Technologies(Electricity transmission and distribution)

Applied Research and Development

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
SPEN - SP Transmission Plc

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 April 2022

31 December 2022

ENA months

£365,000

Power

Scotland

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, SPEN - SP Transmission Plc

Project Contact, SP Energy Networks

This project will address the problem by developing the first device which reliably and efficiently provides non-destructive conductor assessment information suitable for predictive condition-based intervention. It will also develop concepts or methods for measurement of AAAC condition and develop the first body of scientific information to provide a reliable basis for interpreting the condition of ACSR or AAAC results, upon which to make consistent, traceable condition-based decisions.As part of this project, EST will utilise the learnings from disassembling, understanding, renewing and servicing the Cormon equipment to further accelerate the development of a new device, Conan. This device utilises electromagnetic induction and eddy current detection techniques alongside a state-of-the-art central control system, that can accept multiple inputs from varied sensor types, to assess the condition of conductors.The development of the new Conan device aims to:Have real time results and high operational reliability and efficiency which will enable a new testing practice where high volumes of testing are possible. This also allows users to interrogate and investigate data in real timeBe scientifically tested and proven interpretation of the results and their meaning, thus providing a never before possible level of certainty on conductor conditionHave high accuracy results from multiple sensor types including cameras (visible, IR and UV wavelength as suggested options)Be compatible to integrate sensors or control requirements as plug in additions which future proofs for any amendments or new requirementsHave the ability to measure AAAC conductorsHave the capability of being supported and deployed by drone or helicopterEnable deployment and operation of devices under energised conditionsThe main outputs from the project will be:New device with the capability to accurately and efficiently assess conductor conditions, ready for commercialisationNew scientific method for making conductor replacement decisions, which will be supported by documentation.Device that is compatible with the working prototype of AAAC detector head. The project will be delivered in 6 stages outlined below:Stage 1 - Technology review and concept selectionReview, development and optimisation of sensing systemFinalise functional design specificationGenerate and select conceptual designProduce DFMEA (Design failure mode and effect analysis) to review project riskStage 2 - Detailed designComplete electrical and mechanical design for AAAC detector headFinalise wiring diagram for new systemComplete manufacturing drawings for new system.Create technical file for future UKCA and CE markingStage 3 - Prototype fabrication and functionality testingManufacture system subassemblies.Complete software programmingBench testing of subassemblies.Assemble tested subassemblies in to completed prototypeStage 4 Performance & practical testingPractical testing and prototype amendmentsStage 5 - Network TrialsNetwork trial designExecution of network trialsFinal prototype amendmentsStage 6 - Preparation for commercialisationTechnical report of scientific findingsCompile technical documentation for UKCA and CE marking and declaration in placeTraining and maintenance documentation The objectives and measure for each stage of the project are outlined below:Stage 1 – Technology Review and Concept SelectionPrepare initial breadboard design of AAAC detector headMeasure: Confirmation of design calculations with working practical set-upProduce the final Conan concept in accordance with the agreed technical and user requirementsMeasure: Final concept chosen in line with all requirements in Functional design specification (FDS)Stage 2 – Detailed DesignFinalise detailed electrical and mechanical design for Conan and for AAAC detector headMeasure: Function-specific dimensions and electrical input/interface confirmedStage 3 – Prototype Fabrication and Functionality TestingDevelop a working AAAC detector head prototypeMeasure: Demonstrable capability to measure cross sectional loss or surface pitting on a typical AAAC conductorProduce Conan prototype(s) that are appropriate for bench and lab-based functionality testingMeasure: One or more physical prototypes of components or assemblies to be produced as required by test planStage 4 – Performance and Practical TestingComplete laboratory and workshop-based performance tests on Conan deviceMeasure: The tests pass the performance requirements stated in the pre-populated and agreed matrix and design planComplete practical testsMeasure: The tests pass the performance requirements stated in the pre-populated and agreed matrix and design planStage 5 - Network TrialsTrial the performance of device on an appropriate real network environmentMeasure: Reviewed against a pre-populated and agreed performance requirements matrix and test planStage 6 - Preparation for commercialisationCommunicate knowledge describing the engineering and science behind the developed techniquesMeasure: A technical report presenting findings and results.Produce standardised maintenance and training procedureMeasure: Production of a maintenance manual and training documentation and delivery packagePerform work on UKCA and CE mark approval – compile technical fileMeasure: Have declaration for UKCA and CE marking for the Conan device

This project will develop non-destructive conductor assessment to analyse the condition of ACSR and AAAC OHL conductors.

14/10/22