State Grid Dingxi Power Supply Company: Addressing hidden hazards to ensure safe and stable power grid operation

The State Grid Dingxi Power Supply Company successfully employed the equipotential live-working method recently to rectify overheating issues with the 330 kilovolt Lin-Gong Line 1 and Lin-Gong Line 2 clamps, thereby ensuring the safe and stable operation of the regional power grid during the summer peak period. Concurrently, the intelligent monitoring device known as the "Ice-Watching Elf" was installed live, achieving the dual benefits of "accomplishing two tasks in one operation".

It is reported that during specialized infrared temperature measurement inspections, the transmission line operation and maintenance personnel of the company identified heating issues in some clamps on the 330 kV Lingong Lines 1 and 2. Serving as a crucial backbone for regional power supply, any disruption to this line through traditional outage maintenance methods would significantly impact the reliability of the main grid's power supply. To guarantee uninterrupted power supply during the peak summer demand period, the company promptly organized on-site inspections and conducted thorough evaluations for potential solutions, ultimately deciding to adopt the technically demanding equipotential live-line working method.

On the day designated for the task, seasoned live-working personnel from the company, clad in comprehensive protective suits, employed the "Little Flyer" electric lifting device to cautiously advance toward the live 330 kV conductor via an insulating rope. As they neared the conductor, accompanied by a "sizzling" discharge sound, the personnel swiftly executed the potential transfer, seamlessly transitioning into an equipotential state. Upon inspection, it was revealed that oxidation at the junction of the current-dividing plate had led to an increase in contact resistance. In response, the live-working personnel promptly short-circuited the plate, meticulously polished the contact surface, applied conductive paste, and retightened the bolts, thereby effectively decreasing the contact resistance and completely rectifying the equipment defect.

To maximize the benefits of this live-line maintenance opportunity, the company's transmission line workers, after successfully addressing the potential overheating issue with the wire clamps, proceeded to install the "Ice Watcher Elf" intelligent monitoring device on the conductor in a standardized manner. This device can autonomously harness power from the conductor's current, offering real-time image transmission and precise monitoring of ice thickness, thereby establishing a solid foundation for comprehensive prevention and control of ice accumulation risks on transmission lines during winter.

The successful execution of this equipotential live working operation has mitigated the significant disruptions caused by traditional planned power outages. It has directly and efficiently addressed potential equipment hazards, fully demonstrating the pivotal role of new technology applications in ensuring the reliable operation of the power grid. This endeavor embodies the value proposition that "uninterrupted power supply is the ultimate service." Additionally, the concurrent installation of the "Ice Monitoring Elf" will provide robust support for enhancing the intelligent disaster prevention capabilities of the power lines, fortifying the defenses for the safe and stable operation of the Dingxi power grid.