Wind and environmental effects on overhead high voltage transmission lines

Abstract

This work is an experimental study of the effect of wind on high voltage transmission lines. Two sets of models, representing a pair of tension towers and a pair of suspension towers, were constructed to a suitable scale. The two sets were tested using a delivery wind tunnel. Three different sizes of conductors were tested at three values of wind speed (5, 10 and 15 m/s). Also, the effect of environmental conditions (ice and mud) was studied. Measurements of the horizontal and vertical displacements of the conductors of different phases were recorded. The additional tension of the conductors, due to aerodynamic drag, was also measured. Useful observations and conclusions are stated.