Davey Tree : Asset Management Portfolio : Corn Belt Energy: GPS Data Collection and Pole Testing


Corn Belt Energy: GPS Data Collection and Pole Testing

Davey Resource Group (DRG) is inspecting and testing poles and creating digital maps to help Corn Belt Energy Corporation improve its system and provide quality customer service in its southern district.

DRG began collecting data in June 2005 using UtilityCenter® software. The information was used to create a geographic information system (GIS) of Corn Belt’s electric distribution system with a digital map and full equipment inventory. This is done with global positioning system (GPS) units and pen-tablet computers. DRG also is conducting pole testing and inspection services, including sonic, bore, and hammer testings and visual inspections for loose or broken equipment. DRG personnel identify dangerous poles that need immediate attention and inform Corn Belt about needed repairs.

The information will help Corn Belt with spatial information about its system, improve its outage management, and integrate with an automated meter reading (AMR) system. It also will supply valuable information about the condition of equipment.

The district’s coverage area surrounds Bloomington, Ill., including parts of Tazewell, Woodford, McLean, DeWitt, Macon, and Logan counties. Corn Belt has 27 substations that supply electric service to nearly 24,400 customers in the southern district. Its electric distribution system has about 55,000 poles of overhead line around the cities of Bloomington and Normal.

For more information, contact Dave Terry at (636) 448-2018, or call (800) 828-8312.