PLP AND FULCRUMAIR UNVEIL GROUNDBREAKING ROBOTIC SOLUTION FOR INSTALLING BIRD DIVERTERS ON OVERHEAD POWER LINES

CLEVELAND, Jan. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PLP and FulcrumAir have partnered to launch the world's most advanced automated robotic system for installing helically-shaped bird diverters on overhead power lines. The Mini LineFlytm is a revolutionary unmanned system that automatically and precisely installs PLP's BIRD-FLIGHTtm Diverters on overhead lines, helping to significantly reduce safety concerns for lineworkers while also exponentially increasing project efficiency.

"We are excited to collaborate with FulcrumAir to launch this newest addition to our expanding lineup of robotic installation solutions," said Ryan Ruhlman, President of PLP. "The Mini LineFly not only offers the most efficient method for installing bird diverters but, more significantly, contributes to enhancing the safety environment for utility workers around the world."

The Mini LineFly accurately places PLP BIRD-FLIGHT Diverters at predetermined intervals, maximizing the performance to help safeguard wildlife from accidental contact with power lines. This critical wildlife protection device reduces the probability of unintended bird collisions by enhancing line visibility, helping to protect diverse avian species and mitigate potential costly and problematic power outages.

The first implementation of robotically installed PLP BIRD-FLIGHT Diverters took place during the recent High Banks Wind Project in Kansas. Nearly 15,000 bird diverters were installed using robotics along the 75-mile 345 kV transmission line spanning Marshall, Republic, and Washington counties. The High Banks Wind Project delivers approximately 600 megawatts of dependable renewable energy to customers in the American Midwest.

"We are extremely pleased with how the Mini LineFly performed during this demanding project," said Patrick Arnell, President & CEO of FulcrumAir. "Our mission is to develop and operate equipment that assists electric utilities with the industry's ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages, the increased need for safer work sites, and overall project efficiency requirements."

Alongside the Mini LineFly, PLP and FulcrumAir also recently introduced the CSR-18tm Robot, a state-of-the-art robotic installation system designed for PLP CUSHION-GRIP® Twin Spacers. Both cutting-edge robotic solutions are fully operational worldwide, with multiple projects initiated globally.

ABOUT PLP

PLP protects the world's most critical connections by creating stronger and more reliable networks. The company's precision-engineered solutions are trusted by energy and communications providers worldwide to perform better and last longer. With locations in over 20 countries, PLP works as a united global corporation, delivering high-quality products and unparalleled service to customers around the world.

ABOUT FULCRUMAIR

Founded in 2016 and having invested over 60,000 hours into design and engineering to date, FulcrumAir is a leader in developing robotic solutions for the powerline industry. FulcrumAir's portfolio of UAVs and aerial robotics are specifically designed to address critical challenges facing electric utilities by robotically performing line construction tasks such as installing line spacers and bird flight diverters. Additional robotic solutions are currently under development.

SOURCE Preformed Line Products