Assessing the power transfer performance of a lattice tower overhead line system

Abstract

This study examines the overall performance of overhead power lines (OHL) considering their electro-mechanical properties, with a focus on lattice tower structures. Performance analysis of commonly used aluminium alloy conductors on a 275 kv lattice tower system and subsequentcomparison with the corresponding performance of the conductors on a 33 kV wood pole structurehighlights the effect of the OHL structure strength on overall system performance. Further results from the analysis of the lattice tower structure help to evaluate the effect of span length, conductor weight and bundle configuration on OHL system performance. Finally, a holistic analysis illustrating the benefits of the use of novel conductors on lattice tower structures at 'normal' operating temperatures to avoid increased losses is reported and discussed. © The Institution of Engineering and Technology 2013.