Drone Volt’s LineDrone, developed in partnership with Hydro-Québec, has received certification from EDF for inspecting high-voltage power lines. This French utility’s approval marks a key milestone for the drone’s deployment in maintaining energized transmission infrastructure.
The LineDrone features a protective cage and mechanical design enabling contact with lines from 120 to 315 kV, up to 2000 A, while resisting electromagnetic disturbances. Its motorized rolling system allows landing on overhead conductors 10 to 70 mm in diameter and travel exceeding 1 km at 0.6 m/s, with data positioning accuracy of +/- 1 cm. Equipped with an 8-motor redundant architecture, the 20 kg drone (max takeoff 22 kg) carries up to 2 kg payloads like the LineOhm sensor for non-intrusive measurements of electrical resistance, corrosion on ACSR conductors, and junction sleeves.
Certified for lines up to 735 kV, LineDrone performs advanced inspections detecting anomalies without de-energizing lines, eliminating network constraints and human risks associated with helicopters or manual methods. It supports grid optimization by providing precise data for uprating line capacity, bird strike protection via anti-collision devices, dynamic line rating sensor installation, and innovative coatings to reduce electrical losses.
With 12-minute flight time on 44.4 V 22,000 mAh batteries, dimensions of 135 x 135 x 93 cm, and communication systems immune to high-voltage fields, LineDrone addresses operational challenges in a market shifting from costly traditional approaches. Drone Volt confirms growing adoption among major operators.