Evaluation Study of Potential Use of Advanced Conductors in Transmission Line Projects

Abstract

Transmission networks recently faced new technical and economic challenges. The direct use of advanced technologies and modern methods could solve these issues. This paper discusses the potential application of straightforward technology such as high-temperature low-sag conductors (HTLScs) as an additional measure for the protection and effective operation of overhead power lines. An evaluation was conducted to determine an approach for selecting the cross-sectional area and type of conductor with respect to a fault current limitation. It showed the potential benefits of using HTLScs based on an assessment of the throughput capacity and up-front capital costs. A case study considered two scenarios: the construction of a new power line and reconductoring of the existing one. The data for a real project with two overhead power lines were used. The obtained results are analyzed and discussed in detail in this paper.