Electromagnetic Environment Around Overhead Parallel Extra-High-Voltage Transmission Lines for UAS During Powerline Inspection

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are increasingly replacing expensive crewed helicopters for powerline inspections. However, UAS can be affected by electromagnetic interference, especially when operating close to energized high-voltage infrastructure. This interference can result in safety hazards, such as collisions, equipment losses, casualties, or injuries. Despite these risks, no research has been conducted to investigate the electromagnetic fields around parallel powerlines and how they affect UAS safety missions. This paper aims to describe the magnetic fields of parallel extra-high-voltage (EHV) transmission lines in the U.S. power grid. The electromagnetic fields generated by two parallel extra-high-voltage powerlines were modeled and simulated using the Quickfield software based on the 2D finite element method. Three sets of transmission lines were investigated: 345 kV,500kV, and 765 kV. The results were compared with the fields generated by a single line. The results indicate that the magnetic fields are affected by the distance between the two parallel powerlines. Specifically, the presence of the second line reduced the field generated by the first line, except for the 345 kV when the UAS is circularly inspecting the powerline.