Deployment Considerations of Autonomous Robots in HVDC Converter Stations

High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) converter stations are critical assets in modern power systems, enabling long-distance power transmission, large-scale renewable integration, and cross-border interconnections. Ensuring the reliability and availability of these facilities is therefore essential. However, routine inspection of HVDC converter stations remains constrained by safety and accessibility challenges. In particular, valve halls are inaccessible to personnel during live operation due to high electric fields, electromagnetic interference, and flashover risk. Consequently, inspections are typically limited to infrequent planned outages, creating extended periods during which asset degradation may remain undetected.