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Typicalconstructionsofoverheadlines|EEP

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TypicalConstructionsOfOverheadLines

FIGURE 2.1 - Example overhead

distribution structures. (a) Three-phase
34.5-kV armless construction with covered
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wire.
Along streets, alleys, through woods, and in backyards, many of the distribution lines that feed
customers are overhead structures.
Because overhead lines are exposed to trees and animals, to wind and lightning, and to cars and
kites, they are a critical component in the reliability of distribution circuits. Overhead constructions
come in a variety of configurations (see Figure 2.1).
Normally one primary circuit is used per pole, but utilities sometimes run more than one circuit per
structure. For a three-phase circuit, the most common structure is a horizontal layout with an 8- or
10-ft wood crossarm on a pole (see Figure 2.2). Armless constructions are also widely found where
fiberglass insulator standoffs or post insulators are used in a tighter configuration.
Utilities normally use 30- to 45-ft poles, set 6 to 8 ft deep. Vertical construction is also occasionally
used. Span lengths vary from 100 to 150 ft in suburban areas to as much as 300 or 400 ft in rural
areas.
Distribution circuits normally have an underbuilt neutral the neutral acts as a safety ground for
equipment and provides a return path for unbalanced loads and for line-to-ground faults. The
neutral is 3 to 5 ft below the phase conductors.
Utilities in very high lightning areas may run the neutral wire above the phase conductors to act as a
shield wire.
Some utilities also run the neutral on the crossarm. Secondary circuits are often run under the
primary. The primary and the secondary may share the neutral, or they may each have their own
neutral. Many electric utilities share their space with other utilities telephone or cable television
cables may run under the electric secondary.

FIGURE 2.1 Continued. (b)

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Single-phase circuit, 7.2 kV

line-to-ground

FIGURE 2.1 Continued. (c) Single-phase, 4.8kV circuit

FIGURE 2.1 Continued. (d) 13.2-kV

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spacer cable

Wood is the main pole material, although steel, concrete, and fiberglass are also used. Treated wood
lasts a long time, is easy to climb and attach equipment to, and also augments the insulation between
the energized conductors and ground.
Conductors are primarily aluminum. Insulators are pin type, post type, or suspension, either
porcelain or polymer.

FIGURE 2.2 - Example crossarm construction.

The National Electrical Safety Code (IEEE C2-2000) governs many of the safety issues that play
important roles in overhead design issues. Poles must have space for crews to climb them and work
safely in the air. All equipment must have sufficient strength to stand up to normal operations.
Conductors must carry their weight, the weight of any accumulated ice, plus withstand the wind
pressure exerted on the wire. We are not going to discuss mechanical and structural issues in this
book.
Overhead construction can cost $10,000/mi to $250,000/mi, depending on the circumstances. Some
of the major variables are labor costs, how developed the land is, natural objects (including rocks in
the ground and trees in the way), whether the circuit is single or three phase, and how big the
conductors are.
Suburban three-phase mains are typically about $60,000 to $150,000/mi single-phase laterals are
often in the $40,000 to $75,000/mi range. Construction is normally less expensive in rural areas in
urban areas, crews must deal with traffic and set poles in concrete. As Willis (1997) notes, upgrading
a circuit normally costs more than building a new line.

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Typically this work is done live: the old conductor has to be moved to standoff brackets while the
new conductor is strung, and the poles may have to be reinforced to handle heavier conductors.
SOURCE: El. Power Distribution Equipment and Systems A. Short

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