The economic case for RCM of overhead lines in the UK

This article describes the application of new inspection techniques, assess ment methodologies and life-cycle cost analyses aimed at improving the deci sion-making process for the replace/repair/rebuild option on overhead line networks. The approach is based on reliability-centred power line managemen t, pioneered in the USA.(1) RCM provides asset life extension whilst mainta ining availability and has been proven to result in very favourable cost-be nefit ratios when applied in the USA.(2) The methods and economics for appl ying RCM to UK practice through collaborative work between IPEC, EDM and NO RWEB ave described.