Introduction

High-voltage transmission lines form the backbone of modern electrical grids, critical for transporting bulk power efficiently over long distances from generation sources to demand centers. However, the design and analysis of these vital assets are becoming increasingly complex due to a confluence of factors: the integration of vast amounts of renewable energy from remote locations, the imperative for enhanced grid resilience, stringent environmental regulations, and the constant drive for improved efficiency and capacity utilization. Advanced Transmission Line Design and Analysis goes beyond conventional practices, incorporating cutting-edge technologies, sophisticated modeling techniques, and a holistic understanding of their interaction with the dynamic power system. Without a mastery of these advanced principles, engineers face significant challenges in optimizing performance, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring the long-term reliability and economic viability of new and existing transmission infrastructure in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. This comprehensive training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Advanced Transmission Line Design and Analysis.

This intensive 10-day training course is meticulously designed to empower electrical engineers, civil/structural engineers, power system planners, and project managers involved in transmission infrastructure development with the theoretical understanding and hands-on practical tools necessary to excel in the field. Participants will gain a deep understanding of advanced conductor technologies, explore dynamic line rating methodologies, learn about intricate structural design for various tower types, and acquire skills in performing comprehensive electrical, mechanical, and environmental analyses. The course will delve into topics such as high-temperature low-sag (HTLS) conductors, dynamic line rating (DLR) systems, advanced lightning performance analysis, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) considerations, the impact of climate change on line design, and the use of specialized software tools for design optimization. By mastering the principles and practical application of Advanced Transmission Line Design and Analysis, participants will be prepared to tackle the most demanding challenges in transmission system expansion and modernization, contributing significantly to a robust, efficient, and sustainable power delivery network.

Duration: 10 Days

Target Audience

• Transmission Line Design Engineers
• Power System Planning Engineers
• Structural Engineers (Specializing in Towers)
• Utility Engineers and Consultants
• Project Managers for Transmission Line Projects
• Researchers in Power Transmission
• Electrical Engineers with a focus on EHV/UHV systems
• Environmental Engineers in the Energy Sector
• Asset Management Personnel for Transmission Lines
• Professionals involved in Grid Modernization

Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles and advanced considerations in transmission line design.
• Learn about the latest conductor technologies and their application.
• Acquire skills in performing detailed electrical parameter calculations for advanced lines.
• Comprehend techniques for conducting advanced mechanical design analyses (sag-tension, loading).
• Explore strategies for optimizing tower and foundation design for various terrains.
• Understand the importance of insulation coordination and lightning performance.
• Gain insights into dynamic line rating (DLR) and its implementation.
• Develop a practical understanding of electromagnetic fields (EMF) and corona effects.
• Learn about environmental impact assessment and right-of-way planning.
• Master the use of specialized software tools for transmission line design and analysis.
• Acquire skills in assessing the impact of extreme weather and climate change on lines.
• Understand the interconnection and integration challenges with new technologies.
• Explore advanced maintenance and asset management strategies for lines.
• Develop proficiency in evaluating the economic and technical trade-offs in design.
• Prepare to address contemporary challenges and future trends in transmission line engineering.

Course Content

Module 1: Advanced Conductor Technologies

• Overview of conventional conductors (ACSR, AAC, AAAC).
• High-Temperature Low-Sag (HTLS) conductors: types (ACSS, ACCC, GAP, Invar), properties, and applications.
• Superconducting cables: principles, challenges, and future potential.
• Conductor selection criteria for thermal, electrical, and mechanical performance.
• Addressing conductor vibrations: Aeolian vibration and galloping.

Module 2: Electrical Parameters and Performance

• Advanced calculation of resistance, inductance, and capacitance for bundled conductors.
• Transposition schemes and their impact on line parameters.
• Surge impedance loading (SIL) and natural loading.
• Ferranti effect and voltage regulation in long transmission lines.
• Line losses: calculation, analysis, and mitigation techniques.

Module 3: Advanced Mechanical Design - Sag and Tension

• Detailed sag-tension calculations under various loading conditions (ice, wind, temperature).
• Ruling span concept and its limitations.
• Non-linear sag-tension analysis methods.
• Stringing charts and their application.
• Impact of conductor creep and annealing on long-term sag.

Module 4: Tower Design and Structural Analysis

• Types of transmission line towers: lattice, tubular steel poles, guyed structures.
• Structural loading analysis: dead, wind, ice, construction, and broken wire loads.
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for complex tower geometries.
• Design of tower foundations: drilled piers, spread footings, pile foundations.
• Material selection and corrosion protection for tower components.

Module 5: Insulation Coordination and Lightning Performance

• Principles of insulation coordination for EHV/UHV lines.
• External and internal overvoltages: lightning and switching surges.
• Lightning performance analysis: shielded vs. unshielded lines.
• Application of surge arresters (MOVs).
• Selection of insulators: porcelain, glass, composite; pollution flashover considerations.

Module 6: Right-of-Way (ROW) and Environmental Considerations

• ROW acquisition, management, and challenges.
• Environmental impact assessment: flora, fauna, visual impact, noise.
• Mitigation strategies for environmental concerns.
• Land use planning and public engagement.
• Best practices for sustainable transmission line development.

Module 7: Dynamic Line Rating (DLR)

• Principles of DLR: utilizing real-time weather data (ambient temperature, wind speed, solar radiation).
• Comparison of static vs. dynamic line ratings.
• Benefits of DLR: increased transmission capacity, reduced congestion, enhanced grid flexibility.
• Sensors and communication infrastructure for DLR implementation.
• Case studies and practical applications of DLR.

Module 8: Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) and Corona Effects

• Generation and characteristics of electric and magnetic fields around transmission lines.
• Health concerns and public perception of EMF.
• Regulations and guidelines for EMF limits.
• Corona phenomenon: formation, losses, radio interference (RI), audible noise (AN), ozone generation.
• Mitigation techniques for corona and EMF.

Module 9: Advanced Grounding and Earthing Systems

• Importance of effective grounding for safety and equipment protection.
• Design of grounding systems for towers and substations.
• Step and touch potential calculations.
• Grounding for lightning protection.
• Soil resistivity measurements and impact on grounding design.

Module 10: Live-Line Working and Maintenance Considerations

• Techniques and safety protocols for live-line maintenance (hot-stick, barehand).
• Designing lines for maintainability and accessibility.
• Inspection and monitoring technologies: drones, LiDAR, thermal imaging.
• Predictive maintenance strategies for transmission line assets.
• Refurbishment and uprating of existing transmission lines.

Module 11: Specialized Transmission Structures and Applications

• Compact line designs and their benefits.
• Underground and submarine transmission cables: design, installation, challenges.
• Multi-circuit lines and their interaction.
• Crossing structures: river, road, railway crossings.
• Urban and constrained corridor designs.

Module 12: Interconnection and System Integration

• Interconnecting new transmission lines with existing grid infrastructure.
• Impact of new lines on power flow, voltage profiles, and system stability.
• Coordination with protection systems and control centers.
• Regulatory compliance and grid code requirements for new interconnections.
• Role of advanced transmission in integrating renewable energy sources.

Module 13: Climate Change Impact and Adaptation

• Effects of extreme weather events (storms, wildfires, ice storms) on transmission lines.
• Designing for increased climate resilience.
• Material degradation due to environmental factors.
• Adaptation strategies for changing climatic conditions.
• Role of advanced line design in climate change mitigation.

Module 14: Software Tools for Transmission Line Design and Analysis

• Introduction to industry-standard software: PLS-CADD, Sag10, CDEGS.
• Modeling transmission lines in design software.
• Performing sag-tension analysis, clearance checks, and structural loading calculations.
• Simulating electromagnetic effects and ground grid performance.
• Hands-on exercises with selected software platforms.

Module 15: Future Trends and Emerging Technologies

• Smart transmission lines: integrated sensors, real-time monitoring.
• High-Capacity Low-Sag (HCLS) conductors and their advancements.
• Self-healing grid concepts and autonomous line management.
• Advanced analytics and AI for optimized design and predictive maintenance.
• The role of HVDC in future transmission corridors and supergrids.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.