Occasionally, squirrels can cause major problems in power distribution networks by either gnawing through cables or causing power outages by touching two conductors simultaneously. ADAS was awarded a contract by Central Networks to investigate solutions to the problem and was asked to involve students from a school in Derbyshire as part of the Engineering Education Scheme.
The students looked at possible deterrents; first investigating the effects of different colour paints without success. They then looked at ultrasonic deterrents and demonstrated how these devices could be produced.
The project gave the students valuable experience of a real-life issue and their work was included in the final presentation and report.
The project was generated by the Innovation Funding Incentive (IFI) scheme, which is a mechanism introduced by OFGEM to encourage distribution network operators to invest in appropriate research and development activities that focus on the technical aspects of network design, operation and maintenance.
For more information please contact Ray williams on 01235 438909 or email ray.williams@adas.co.uk