Overview & Events
Objective
The key objective of this research is to help transmission engineers apply this technology with confidence. This is accomplished by developing an HTLS conductor application guide, developing a test protocol to compare different carbon fiber composite core conductors, providing information on comparing and selecting suitable HTLS conductors for specific applications, developing maintenance procedures and recommendations that can be incorporated into utilities' maintenance manuals, highlighting the newest HTLS conductors available, testing the thermal and mechanical performance of these HTLS conductors, and reviewing and documenting use cases of utilities applying these conductors. This project addresses critical issues related to the long-term performance of High Temperature Low Sag (HTLS) conductors by undertaking specific tasks:
Planned 2024 Research
Guidelines for the Installation of HTLS Conductors: Generally, compared to traditional steel core conductors, the HTLS conductors have different handling and installation requirements. Typical line installation crews are not as familiar with the HTLS installation requirements compared with the traditional ACSR conductors. Most of the premature HTLS failures have occurred due to improper installation practices. This task intends to compile best practice guidelines based on manufacturer and utility experiences.
Overview of Qualification Testing of Carbon Core Conductors: Because carbon core advanced conductors have only recently been developed, there is a lack of information on how utilities can qualify them for application on their transmission systems. In 2024, this task intends to compile qualification test results developed over the past several years. This information can be used by utilities to properly evaluate these advanced conductors.
Development of a Guide to Safe Design Tension for ACSS Conductor: Determining a safe conductor tension is a multi-faceted problem that requires understanding of the self-damping performance and fretting fatigue endurance of a conductor. This initiative, which is a collaborative effort with project 35.007, is focused on helping solve this problem for ACSS conductor, as its self-damping and fatigue properties vary significantly from ACSR conductor. In 2024, full-scale vibration testing is planned.
Evaluation of Field-Aged Conductors and Connectors: This task intends to provide an update on the results of evaluations performed on aged HTLS conductors. Through this evaluation, it is envisioned that a better understanding of the aging impact on the electrical and mechanical performance of these conductors may be obtained. In 2024, a report detailing these evaluations is intended to be compiled.
Development of Guidelines for the Specification, Selection, and Application of Advanced Conductors: This task develops a guide (which is intended to be updated each year) to assist utilities in the proper selection and application of advanced conductors. The intention is for the following information to be included:
- Field and test experiences with different advanced conductors
- Application case studies
- Documentation and characterization of various types of conductors
- Review and development of technical specifications of the different advanced conductor types
- Review of the various standards associated with advanced conductors
Inspection of Advanced Conductors: Composite core conductors generally have stricter installation requirements than those for standard ACSR conductors. There is a need to evaluate mechanical issues that could arise during installation of these conductors. As many HTLS lines start to age, there is a need to inspect and assess the core condition. In 2024, this task intends to further evaluate the inspection technologies identified in 2023.
Engagement Opportunities
| Meeting | Date | Location | Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Increased Overhead Transmission Capacity Task Force | February 19-22 (In-person) February 26-29 (Virtual) |
Charlotte, NC | Meeting Materials |
| EPRI R&D Project Update Webcast: P35.015 Advanced Conductors | May 22 11:00 am - 12:00 pm ET |
Webcast | Meeting Materials |
| Overhead Transmission 2025 ARP Rollout #1 | June 12 11:00 am - 12:30 pm ET |
Webcast | Meeting Materials |
| Overhead Transmission 2025 ARP Rollout #2 | July 16 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET |
Webcast | Meeting Materials |
| Live Working Task Force | August 19-22 (In-person) August 26-29 (Virtual) |
Charlotte, NC | Meeting Material |
| EPRI Overhead Transmission (Program 35) New Supplemental Launch Webcast | October 8 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET |
Webcast | Add to Calendar |
| EPRI End of Year Webcast: P35.015 Live Working | November 26 11:00 am - 12:00 pm ET |
Webcast | Meeting Material |
| Increased Overhead Transmission Capacity Task Force - March 2025 | March 10-13 (In-person) / August 17-20 (Virtual) | Charlotte, NC | Register Here |