Empire District to use infrared technology for annual transmission line inspection process

— Empire District will begin its annual aerial inspection of company transmission lines and substations on Monday, August 8. The inspection is expected to continue through August 19; however, the length of the program is dependent upon weather and wind conditions.

The aerial inspection process uses a low-flying helicopter to survey 1,280 miles of transmission lines throughout Empire's service territory. The survey focuses on identifying potential problems with transmission structures, hardware, conductors and vegetation. The process uses a high-resolution infrared imaging system to detect potential equipment issues that may go undetected in a typical visual inspection.

According to Brent Baker, vice president of customer service, transmission and engineering, "Annual aerial inspection is an important part of our routine maintenance program designed to ensure safe and reliable operation of the transmission system. The high-resolution infrared system will allow us to detect additional issues and further enhance the reliable delivery of energy to our customers."

For more information regarding Empire District Electric Co. or its transmission line inspection, visit www.empiredistrict.com.

Community on 08/03/2016