In a remarkable feat of engineering, maintenance teams in northwest China successfully completed a live-line operation on the country's largest 750-kilovolt ultra-high-voltage power transmission loop yesterday, April 29. This critical infrastructure, encircling the Tarim Basin in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, powers development around the vast Taklimakan Desert.
During a routine inspection, personnel identified a potential defect that could have led to equipment failure. To address it without disrupting power supply—a crucial consideration for regional industries and communities—they deployed an innovative combination of technology. Drones were used for precise aerial assessment and positioning, while a portable electric lifting device, colloquially known as the 'flying man,' transported engineers directly to the worksite at high altitude.
The entire repair was executed and the defect eliminated within just one hour, showcasing a significant leap in efficiency and safety for maintaining essential energy arteries. This 'skywalking' approach minimizes downtime and operational risks, ensuring stable electricity transmission across a challenging desert landscape.
For global observers of Asia's infrastructure boom, this event highlights the advanced technical capabilities being applied to sustain and modernize the region's energy grids. It underscores the importance of reliable power for economic growth in frontier areas like Xinjiang, offering insights for business professionals and investors monitoring Asia's sustainable development and technological innovation.
Reference(s):
'Skywalking' with drones: How engineers maintain China's largest 750 kV live-line
cgtn.com
