This project will develop non-destructive conductor assessment to analyse the condition of ACSR and AAAC OHL conductors.

Objectives

The objectives and measure for each stage of the project are outlined below:

Stage 1 – Technology Review and Concept Selection

Prepare initial ‘breadboard’ design of AAAC detector head
Measure: Confirmation of design calculations with working practical set-up

Produce the final Conan concept in accordance with the agreed technical and user requirements
Measure: Final concept chosen in line with all requirements in Functional design specification (FDS)

Stage 2 – Detailed Design

Finalise detailed electrical and mechanical design for Conan and for AAAC detector head
Measure: Function-specific dimensions and electrical input/interface confirmed

Stage 3 – Prototype Fabrication and Functionality Testing

Develop a working AAAC detector head prototype
Measure: Demonstrable capability to measure cross sectional loss or surface pitting on a typical AAAC conductor

Produce Conan prototype(s) that are appropriate for bench and lab-based functionality testing
Measure: One or more physical prototypes of components or assemblies to be produced as required by test plan

Stage 4 – Performance and Practical Testing

Complete laboratory and workshop-based performance tests on Conan device
Measure: The tests pass the performance requirements stated in the pre-populated and agreed matrix and design plan

Complete practical tests
Measure: The tests pass the performance requirements stated in the pre-populated and agreed matrix and design plan

Stage 5 - Network Trials

Trial the performance of device on an appropriate real network environment
Measure: Reviewed against a pre-populated and agreed performance requirements matrix and test plan

Stage 6 - Preparation for commercialisation

Communicate knowledge describing the engineering and science behind the developed techniques
Measure:  A technical report presenting findings and results.

Produce standardised maintenance and training procedure
Measure:  Production of a maintenance manual and training documentation and delivery package

Perform work on UKCA and CE mark approval – compile technical file
Measure: Have declaration for UKCA and CE marking for the Conan device