Australian energy utilities are faced with the incredible challenge of having to manage networks that exist in conditions as varied as dry, arid desert to windy, wet coastal regions.
Each region has very different implications for network infrastructure and requires varied responses. This is true not only for network assets themselves, but also the environment that surrounds them.
After another long, hot summer, it’s clear that vegetation management has to be at the top of the agenda as network owners work to prevent situations where the devastation of bushfires can occur.
The winter does not provide a reprieve, as strong winds bring down trees and pose another risk to powerlines.
Vegetation management in the energy sector is a highly specialised skill and companies in Australia and New Zealand have reported increased difficulties in attracting and retaining talent. With utility arborists being in such short supply, there is an increasing trend towards outsourcing and growth in the number of niche service providers.
Vegetation management around powerlines could be considered even more risky than normal powerline work.
Arborists have to deal with the unpredictable combination of trees (often in difficult weather conditions) and moving power lines. Altec has been supplying equipment into this market for almost 90 years and has purpose built, insulated equipment that helps get the job done.
Altec’s units are built to withstand tough conditions and are a favourite amongst arborists due to their robust nature. Vegetation management clients often request Altec units to be mounted on 4×4 chassis to allow access into tough terrain.
In some of the most extreme cases, Altec units are available on track mounts and with sophisticated engineering, and can help arborists undertake their work even at the most awkward angles. The flexibility and manoeuvrability of the Altec units are another reason for their popularity with arborists. Most arborists opt for the Altec AT37G (13m) or AT30G (11m) as these are the perfect height for tree care work.
Altec units are compliant with Australian standards and are built to deal with the challenges of varying environmental conditions. Altec is proud to work with leading vegetation management companies in Australia and New Zealand, and indeed around the world, and to be counted as a core member of their team.
This partner content is brought to you by Altec. For more information, visit https://www.altecaus.com.au/
