The project specifically helps network operators gain confidence in to remove existing spacers and install type registered twin spacers on overhead lines. The robot will install the spacer at precise predetermined locations – ensuring spacers are installed at the correct locations at a precise 90º angle, improving the performance of the spacer dampers and reducing fatigue and wear on the conductor. FulcrumAir will develop specific robotic solutions to install and remove spacer dampers on new and existing OHTL assets. FulcrumAir have a global presence in this area, and already carry this work out in other countries and are willing to partner with National Grid to co-develop a tailored solution for the network within the UK. 

Benefits

The project will deliver substantial and multi-dimensional benefits aligned to National Grid’s safety, cost efficiency, and network performance objectives, leveraging FulcrumAir’s established global expertise in developing robotic power line tools for the global OHL industry.

Safety Improvements

Eliminates or significantly reduces the requirement for personnel to work at height and on energised or adjacent energised transmission lines
Minimises exposure to high-risk activities including conductor access, manual installation, and suspended platform operations
Reduces reliance on heavy plant, cranes, and access equipment in challenging terrain
Aligns with zero-harm objectives by transitioning high-risk manual activities to controlled robotic execution
Productivity and Programme Acceleration

Robotic installation enables faster, repeatable, and consistent execution compared to manual methods
Reduces installation time per spacer damper, enabling accelerated construction and maintenance programmes
Supports large-scale OHL upgrades required for energy transition (e.g. increased conductor bundling and capacity upgrades)
Allows work to be conducted in a wider range of environmental conditions, reducing weather-related delays, including ability to be operated at night time.
Cost Efficiency and Whole-Life Savings

Significant reduction in labour requirements, crew size and minimum training requirements (doesn’t need trained linesman to operate the equipment)
Lower mobilisation and logistics costs (reduced need for cranes, vehicles, and access systems)
Reduced outage durations leading to lower constraint costs and improved network availability
Potential to standardise processes, driving long-term operational efficiency across GB
Enhanced Network Reliability and Performance

Faster installation and maintenance reduces risk of prolonged outages
Enables proactive spacer maintenance and replacement programmes
Improves consistency and quality of installation, reducing long-term asset degradation
 

Environmental and Social Benefits

Reduced carbon footprint through lower use of heavy machinery and fewer site visits
Decreased land disturbance and improved access to environmentally sensitive locations
Reduced disruption to local communities due to smaller operational footprint
Strategic Benefit – Future Workforce and Capability

Supports transition to a modern, technology-enabled workforce
Reduces dependency on scarce specialist linesman skills
Introduces scalable robotic capability aligned with global best practice