Procedures and the technology exist for conducting proper maintenance on power transmission and distribution lines. A proven product is available: Positron’s live-line porcelain and composite Insulator Testers which determines the health of high-voltage transmission insulators and records the condition of the insulators in a power utility’s network without disturbing the network, using the electric field method. This early warning enables remedial maintenance action to be taken on a timely and unrushed pre-scheduled fashion before failures occur that cause costly outages and dangerous conditions that can also ignite fires.

High-voltage transmission and distribution power lines are suspended from tower structures with insulators. The integrity of the high-voltage power line is dependent on the dielectric and mechanical integrity of the insulators. It is important that the integrity of these insulators be tested with a reliable and proven technology that detects leakages before failures occur. The electric field method developed by Positron, is the only method that is 100% reliable in detecting conductive defects. Most early defects are not detectible by methodologies that rely on corona discharge such as ultraviolet or infrared or acoustic technologies. These defects can lead to catastrophic failures. It is important to use a technology that is 100% reliable.

A lack of proper detection procedures and maintenance on power lines and in power stations results in substantial risk. It is gambling with human lives, extensive property and utility damage and the secondary damages, costs and loss of revenue resulting from power outages and downed lines.

Although there are “Acts of Nature” that are not avoidable, most outages and losses today are avoidable. In the past, the dangers were considered “normal”. Today, the technology exists to prevent most outages and damage. Failure to take the necessary precautions is an irresponsible act. It can also lead to expensive litigation, loss of insurability and damage to image.