A Review on UAV-Based Insulator Cleaning Technology

– The deposition of dust, pollution, and other debris on electrical insulators severely affects the performance and reliability of power transmission systems. Conventional insulator cleaning technologies rely on manual cleaning or expensive helicopter-based technologies, both of which are hazardous and operationally inefficient. The current study demonstrates the design and development of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) specifically designed for insulator cleaning purposes. The UAV proposed here incorporates a high-pressure, lightweight water spraying mechanism and a stabilized flight control system to provide accurate cleaning without harming the insulators or the surrounding infrastructure. Extensive analysis was performed on UAV frame structure, propulsion system, payload integration, and flight dynamics. Field trials confirmed efficient cleaning performance, improved manoeuvrability, and enhanced operational safety. This solution provides a cheaper, scalable, and safer solution.