Our Utility Pole Inspection Capabilities
At the center of our cutting-edge inspection technologies and service for wooden utility poles is our fundamental Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) methodology. This methodology offers a superior approach to testing wood pole integrity compared to traditional hammer sound and bore methods. By utilizing a tiny and minimally invasive needle designed for live tree inspections, our pole inspections effectively minimize the need for partial excavation to evaluate wood conditions below the ground.
Non-Destructive Inspection
No destructive boring samples that impact structural integrity of wood pole, consistent, & repeatable inspections.
Reduced Need for Excavation
Wood below the ground-line can be inspected without need for excavation, helping to avoid costs.
Comprehensive & Customizable Analysis
Analysis of factors such as strength, decay, and circumference. Customizable with ability to add thermography, and other services.
Actionable Reports
Digital dataset designed to work seamlessly with existing processes. Conditions ranked by priority to streamline your maintenance workplan and budget.
TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION
Clearsight NDI Tool & Tool Bit
Our NDI tool digitally captures data recorded on each pole inspection test. Our tool bit is 1/10” backfills itself, so we’re able to achieve measurements below the ground-line with a hole a fraction of the size of traditional boring bits.
Our NDI ground-line wood pole inspections measure:
- Remaining wood pole strength
- Shell thickness
- Internal decay/voids
- External decay
TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION
Aerial Overhead Line Inspections
An inspection of overhead electrical lines using visual images captured by UAS and analyzed by engineers. Results are organized in a prioritized risk assessment report.
- Drone vantage points
- Centralized, prioritized data
- LiDAR & infrared capabilities
TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION
Secure Customer Portal Dashboard
Our customer portal provides easy and secure online access to actionable data from each inspection.
- Condition priorities ranked
- Recall past inspections quickly
- Digital datasets for each pole
What is the Process for Utility Pole Inspections?
The process for utility pole inspections varies based on local regulations and customer requirements. However, inspections generally follow the following steps:
Regulatory Compliance Checks – Verify compliance with relevant local, state, and federal regulations governing utility pole inspections.
Planning & Scheduling – Draft an inspection plan and coordinate with the client utility or electric cooperative to minimize any disruptions to the community or to service.
Safety Precautions – Develop a comprehensive safety plan and implement safety protocols to protect inspection personnel and the public during the inspection process.
Visual Inspection & Data Collection – Using drone technology, collect detailed information about each utility pole to identify any signs of damage, decay, or structural issues. The data collected may include the utility pole’s location, height, condition, and any attachments or equipment mounted on the utility pole.
Structural Testing – Using non-destructive inspection tools, evaluate the integrity of the pole. Our tools help us measure factors like pole lean, rot, tension, and resistance.
Documentation & Data Processing – Document all findings, including photographs, measurements, and any issues discovered during the inspection.
Actionable Insights & Reporting – Provide recommendations for repairs, maintenance, or replacements based on the inspection findings in a detailed report.
Our team of utility inspection experts utilize machine learning and artificial intelligence to process large amounts of inspection data quickly and securely. All findings are reviewed by our team of experts, prioritized based on the severity of the issues and potential risks, and delivered to the customer so these matters can be addressed promptly.
Optimize Your Utility Pole Maintenance for Maximum Efficiency
Unlike traditional sound and boring methods, our consistent and replicable wood pole inspection process significantly decreases the occurrence of human error, while capturing essential data required for quantitative analysis of shell thickness, external decay, internal voids, internal wood decay, and heart rot.
Traditional Inspections
- Physical destruction of the pole
- Significant excavation costs
- Limited analysis of pole health
- Reports are not easily integrated
Our Inspections
- No destructive boring samples that impact structural integrity of wood pole
- More accurate pole health assessment for proactive pole maintenance
- Comprehensive analysis with actionable reports -integrating seamlessly with existing processes
Our Methodology
Our end-to-end integration in the energy business gives our team of experts a balanced perspective and unique insights to help electric cooperatives, municipalities and utilities maintain critical infrastructure. We leverage software to deliver a wide range of inspection solutions for transmission and distribution assets.
Non-Destructive Utility Pole Inspections FAQs
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How often are wooden power poles replaced?
Wooden power poles that are maintained and treated properly can last over 75 years. However, the lifespan of these poles can vary significantly based on factors such as the environment, storm intensity and frequency, maintenance practices, and wood type. Wood poles that are not maintained or treated properly typically see a significantly shorter lifespan of about 40 years. -
Why do utility poles fail?
Wood utility pole failure typically refers to a pole that has collapsed or can no longer be used to support power lines. Wood utility poles most often fail due to overloading, advanced rot, animal or insect infestation, vehicular collision, or storm impact such as ice and wind. -
How do I know if my utility pole is bad?
Problems with wood utility poles can occasionally be identified by visual inspection, including externally decaying wood, serious signs of structural defects, and pole leaning. Most often, wood utility poles need to be professionally inspected as frequent structural problems occur internal to the pole, at the pole top, or below the ground line. -
How deep should a hole be dug to inspect a pole for rot below ground level?
For wood pole rot, traditional wood pole inspections require a full, manual excavation of the pole to a minimum depth of 18 inches. The entire pole must be exposed to appropriately examine for wood rot. Modern inspections minimize the need for excavations by utilizing non-destructive inspection technologies. In either approach, rotting poles require lifespan evaluation and, if they are still structurally sound, decayed wood is removed and preservative pastes are applied.
Realize the Benefits of Complete, Reliable and Information-Rich Inspections for Wood Poles
When our wood pole ground line inspections are coupled with aerial drone inspections, electric cooperatives, municipal and investor-owned utilities uncover deeper and more complete insights for their comprehensive wood pole inspection and maintenance program. Our drones and sensors capture essential data on the integrity of pole-tops and overhead components through a visual inspection with an optional infrared add-on service.
Contact a Clearsight expert today to learn how to obtain the analysis and powerful insights needed to make accurate, proactive maintenance decisions.
