Scope Overview

The client engaged Innovair to deliver a precise and repeatable lightning protection assessment across their turbines in South Ayrshire. The objective was to confirm continuity from receptor to ground, identify any faults and pair these results with detailed visual data of blades, hubs and towers to support safe operation and long term maintenance planning.

The Challenge

Achieving reliable insight into lightning protection system performance presents several operational challenges, including:

• Manual access increasing safety risks and extending downtime
• Restricted reach limiting confidence in full receptor and conductor assessment
• Variable test outcomes reducing consistency and long term trend analysis

The Solution

Innovair delivered the lightning protection testing in partnership with SupAirVision, using the Volta system to conduct drone based continuity measurements on each blade and tower. This approach removed the need for rope teams and enabled accurate, high frequency data capture while turbines remained offline for minimal periods.

Key features included:

• Checks the continuity of the lightning path of receptors & tower structure using a drone-deployed copper knit probe connected to a ground station, creating a closed circuit.

• 3 protocols (Classic, Gap Nacelle & Shunt). Accommodates a wide range of turbine configurations, enabling inspections in 30-60min depending on the chosen protocol.

• FPV guided flight capable of operating in laminar wind speeds up to 12m/s, inspecting each blade LPS system individually.

The Results

• Continuity confirmed across the majority of receptors, with isolated faults identified for targeted maintenance.

• Up to ten turbines inspected per day, significantly reducing downtime.

• High quality reporting combining imagery, measurement data and system assessments into one digital record.

Want more information

Download the full case study to see how Innovair and SupAirVision deliver safer, more efficient LPS inspection through drone based methods.