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DESIGN, SUPPLY AND MOUNTING OF 225 KV LINES BETWEEN NOUAKCHOTT AND ZOUERATE
Study and supply of new wire mesh (metal lattice) towers

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION
2. PURPOSE
2.1. Study (engineering)
2.2. Supply
2.3. Technical information communicated to the tower supplier
2.3.1. To be provided by the engineer
2.3.2. To be provided by the Contractor
3. STANDARDS, NOTES AND REFERENCES
3.1. Standards
3.2. Preliminary Design Notes
3.3. References
4. DEFINITIONS, SYMBOLS AND UNITS
4.1. Definitions
4.2. Symbols
4.3. Units
5. CLASSIFICATION OF THE TOWERS
6. DESIGN
6.1. Shape and dimensions
6.2. Seals and joints
6.3. Brackets
6.3.1. Dimensions of the earth (shield) cable supports
6.3.2. Fastening (hooking) devices
6.4. Tetrapods
6.5. Braces
6.6. Base plates
6.6.1. Shape and dimensions
6.6.2. Extenders
6.6.3. Separated (up and down) footings
7. TECHNOLOGICAL DEVICES
7.1. Safety devices
7.2. Anti-climbing device
7.3. Step (ladder) bolts
7.4. Tagging (marking) of towers
7.4.1. Identification signs
7.4.2. Circuit Plates and Safety Limit Plates
7.5. Marking
7.5.1. Lighted beacons
7.5.2. Red / white paint markings
7.6. Grounding
7.6.1. Earth balls with brackets for conductors
7.6.2. Holes for earthing of the equipment
7.6.3. Measurement of earth resistance of towers
8. STUDY
8.1. Calculation basis
8.1.1. Design values
8.1.2. Basic equation for design
8.1.3. Calculation of internal forces
8.1.4. Modeling bracket tip
8.2. Actions
8.2.1. Permanent stresses
8.2.2. Wind loads/ stresses
8.2.3. Effects of the temperature
8.2.4. Maintenance and mounting / pulling stresses (safety of personnel)
8.2.5. Accidental loading/stresses
8.2.6. Load Table
8.2.7. Case of stresses
8.3. Organic calculation
8.3.1. General Information
8.3.2. Bending and axial compression
8.3.3. Limitation of deformations/strains
8.3.4. Frequency limitation
9. MANUFACTURING
9.1. Requirements for steel types
9.1.1. Protection against corrosion
9.1.2. Requirements for the supply of steel
9.2. Bolts, nuts and washers
9.2.1. Requirements for bolts
9.2.2. Galvanization
9.2.3. Reserve Surplus
9.3. Drilling of holes
9.4. Bending of parts
9.5. Welding
9.6. Anti-climbing devices and steps
9.7. Number and Danger Plates
10. MARKING, PACKING AND TRANSPORT
10.1. Marking
10.2. Packaging
10.3. Transport
11. CONTROLS AND TESTS
11.1. General Information
11.2. Visual and dimensional control
11.3. Pre-shipment receipt
11.4. Prototype assembly (shop test assembly)
11.5. Testing of large size towers
11.6. Galvanization
12. DOCUMENTATION
12.1. General Information
12.2. At the time of the offer / tender
12.3. After supply of the towers
12.4. Composition of Implementation Plans
12.5. Composition of the calculation note
13. ANNEXES

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1. INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this General Technical Specification is to provide general technical requirements for
the design and supply of new wire mesh (metal lattice) towers intended for high voltage overhead
power lines.
The wire mesh (metal lattice) towers consist mainly of hot-dip galvanized steel equal angle corners
assembled with bolts and nuts.

In this document, the Client (Project owner) is also called Client.

The specific study conditions are specified at each tender notice. No derogation from the General
Technical Specification is accepted without prior agreement signed by the Client.

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2. PURPOSE
2.1. Study (engineering)

The study (engineering) includes:

 The complete study (engineering), preparation of assembly plans and nomenclatures for the
various types of tower, including footings;
 The determination of loads acting on the foundations;
 The quality control of the data, calculations and plans as well as the guarantee that this
quality control has taken place. The Contractor must be able to demonstrate that a quality
control system is applied;
 The provision of information on the surface to be painted and the detailed weight per
section of tower;
 The possible services in the context of destructive tests in real size (true scale) of towers in
consultation with the Client and the supplier of the towers;
 The provision of information to the company responsible for assembling the towers in order
to enable it to assemble with the required safety. It is therefore the responsibility of the
Contractor, at the request of the assembly company, to determine the locations for fixing
the slings for crane aided assembly.

2.2. Supply
The supply includes:

 The manufacture and complete supply of towers including bolts with washers and nuts, step
(ladder) bolts, brackets for safety limit plates and identification signs, anti-climbing
equipment, footings, and safety devices;
 The hot-dip galvanization of the components including the base plates;
 The packing and transport of the component parts to the agreed destination;
  The shop test assembly of a tower or part of a tower unless different provisions are
envisaged in the tender documentation;

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The following tasks are carried out by the company in charge of assembling the towers:

 The unloading of the components at the agreed destination;

 The on-site assembly of towers;
 The supply of identification signs with the corresponding fixing rails, circuit plates and safety
limit plates;
 The supply of equipment for earthing or earth resistance measurements such as ground
balls (Arcus type), blocks, shunts;
 The supply of earth electrodesand accessories for the placement of footings.

2.3. Technical information communicated to the tower supplier

2.3.1. To be provided by the engineer

The Engineer shall communicate to the Contractor with the tender notice the following information
concerning:

 The characteristics of the high voltage line;

 The tower outline and main dimensions of the suspension towers.

2.3.2. To be provided by the Contractor

 The Contractor shall prepare a load (force) table specifying the efforts transmitted to the
towers by the conductors and the earth (shield) cable(s), as well as the stress cases to be
considered.
 The sizing calculations of the towers with a justification for the choice of sections of angles
and bolts.
 The distribution of towers by type and height.
 The exact length of the base plates for each type of tower after receiving the stresses on the
foundations established by the Contractor and the study of the foundations by the Engineer
or the company undertaking the foundations.
 The length of the extension cords to be provided in case of land to be backfilled.
 The ups and downs (unlevelling) in terrain in case of uneven ground.
 The location and number of rows of step bolts for towers equipped with more than 2
circuits.

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 The method of attaching the identification signs.

  The position of circuit and safety limits plates in the case of branch/ shunt, end or special
towers or with one or more circuits.
 The location of day and / or night markers if this is the case.
 The need for red / white painting (marking) of a tower.
 The results of the large size tests of certain towers.
 The planning:
- duration for the provision of stresses on the foundations, work plans and calculation notes for each
type of tower;
- duration for the delivery of factory irons for reception;
- duration for the supply of base plates and towers on the site. (The base plates are usually supplied
4 weeks before the towers).

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3. STANDARDS, NOTES AND REFERENCES

For any condition not specified in this document, the Contractor commits to comply with local and
international regulations and standards.

The indications in this General Technical Specification may amend the information given in the
documents cited in reference. In this case, the General Technical Specification takes precedence.

3.1. Standards

The study (engineering) of towers is mainly based on EN 50341 standard “Overhead power lines
exceeding AC 1 kV” [1], as well as on the following standards (non exhaustive list):

 BS EN 10025
 BS EN 10163
 BS EN 10210
 BS 4190: 2001
 IEC 60826
 ASCE manual number 52
 BS EN 1993
 BS EN ISO 18286:2010
 BS 7668
 ISO 1460
 ISO 12944

Or equivalent standards that ensure quality equal to or better than the specified one.

3.2. Preliminary Design Notes

The preliminary design notes for each of the routes must also be rigorously taken into account. In
case of contradiction or ambiguity between the preliminary design notes and this General Technical
Specification, the preliminary design notes shall prevail.

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3.3. References

This General Technical Specification uses, either partially or entirely, the following Belgian or
equivalent standards and recommendations:
1. EN 50341: “Overhead power lines exceeding AC 45 kV”, 1st edition, 2001:
Part 1: General Requirements - Common Specifications.
Part 3: National Normative Aspects.
2. ASCE 10-97: “Design of Latticed Steel Transmission Structures”, 2000.
3. BS EN 10025: “Hot-rolled products of structural steels”, 1st edition, January 2005:
Part 1: General technical delivery conditions.
Part 2: Technical delivery conditions for non - alloy structural steels.
4. BS EN 10027-1: “Designation systems for steels - Part 1: Symbolic designation, main symbols”, 4 th
edition, October 2005.
5. BS EN 10056: “Equal and uneven corners/angles of structural steel”:
Part 1: Dimensions, November 1998.
Part 2: Tolerances of shapes and dimensions, January 1994.
6. BS EN ISO 898-1: “Mechanical properties of fasteners
Part 1: Screws and studs”, 2nd edition, October 1999.
7. DIN 7990: “hexagonal head bolt, constant threaded length with hexagonal nut”.
8. EN ISO 4034: “Hexagonal nuts - Grade C”, 1st edition, February 2001.
9. DIN 7989: “Thick washer for metal constructions”.
10. EN ISO 1461: “Hot dip galvanized coatings on finished ferrous products - Specifications and test
methods”, 1st edition, April 1999.
11. EN ISO 10684: “Fasteners - Hot dip galvanizing coatings”, 1st edition, September 2004.
12. EN 10204: “Metal products - Types of control documents”, 1st edition, January 2005.
13. Instruction note: “Fastening devices for equipment, pulleys and pull-lifts”.
14. General specification: “Grounding of towers”.

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4. DEFINITIONS, SYMBOLS AND UNITS

4.1. Definitions

The definitions below are complementary to § 2.1. of EN 50341-1 [1] standard.

Path angle beta

The angle formed between the axis of the high-voltage line on one side of the tower and the axis
formed by the extension of the high-voltage line from the other side of the tower.
Starting (outgoing) angle Y
Angle formed between the axis of the high voltage line and the longitudinal axis of the tower.

Member
Steel element constituting the main supporting elements of the tower framework

Theoretical point
Point corresponding to the lower node of the lattice/mesh (see Figure 2 in § 6.6.1.).

Terminal (dead-end) tower

Tower having sufficient resistance to stresses after simultaneous disruption of one or more circuits
in the same span and whose function is to avoid cascade breaks (in the event of accidental stresses).

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Shunt (Branch) Tower

Tower from which a branch of the main high-voltage line leaves.

End Tower
Tower having sufficient resistance to the pulling forces of all cables in one direction in the absence of
cables in the other direction (normal stress case).

Special Tower
Tower with several brackets/consoles and / or directions.

Footing/ sole
Part of the tower frame, prolonged in foundations (concrete) to be grouted.

Circuit
All three phases of an AC circuit.

Tetrapod
Constructing section of a tower composed of 4 rigid sub-structures in them, each comprising a
segment of member, part of the faces adjacent thereto and bars connecting these faces.

Section
Any part of a vertically subdivided tower for the purpose of determining wind forces.

4.2. Symbols

Symbol Meaning
Qh Dynamic pressure of the wind at a height h above the
ground
YF Partial Factor
X Compact ratio of a tower section
4.3. Units
The forces are expressed in daN, the angles in gon, the stresses in N / mm2 and the lengths in mm.

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5. CLASSIFICATION OF THE TOWERS

The denomination of the tower type is generally characterized consecutively by:

 its function;
 the path/route angle or outgoing of the high voltage line, in gon or degrees, at the tower
place (unless special tower);
 The height H, in meters, between the fastening point of the lower bracket and the ground
level

The common denominations of the towers are as follows:

Type T used for straight line towers or for horizontal deflection (switching) angles less than 2°; these
towers will be equipped with suspension insulators strings
Type A used for small horizontal deflection (switching) angles up to 2°, with strain insulator strings
(dead-end/terminal tower or anti-cascading tower).
Type WA40 used for mean horizontal deflection angles up to 40°, with strain insulator strings
Type WA70 used for high horizontal deflection angles up to 70°, with strain insulator strings.
Type WA90 used for high horizontal deflection angles up to 90 °, with strain insulator strings.
Type R used for phase transposition (transposition tower)
Type H special tower used for obstacle crossings
Type E used for line ends, with strain insulator strings

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6. DESIGN
6.1. Shape and dimensions

The tower must have the following characteristics:

 Square or rectangular base (unless specified in the tender notice);
 Isostatic structure preferably in order to avoid additional stresses in the structure in case of
foundation movement.
The minimum profile of the main and secondary lattice is 40 x 40 x 4 mm, while the minimum profile
of the members is 60 x 60 x 4 mm. The minimum thickness is 4 mm for the profiles and 6 mm for the
gussets.

To avoid distortion (deformation) of the main angles less than 2 m above the height with respect to
soil following the accidental external stresses (e.g. livestock in the meadow), the minimum profile is
90 x 90 x 6 mm in S355JR.
The use of composite elements (two back-to-back angles or four cross-shaped angles) should be
avoided as much as possible. Nevertheless, if necessary, the Contractor must ensure that the
painting of the elements placed back-to-back is always possible.

In any case, the use of closed section profiles (circular, rectangular, ...) is strictly forbidden.

6.2. Seals and joints

The bolted connection will be made in such a way that the entire threaded part remains outside
the parts to be assembled. The transition between the smooth part and the threaded part takes
place in line (perpendicular) with the washer. The length of the unthreaded part of the bolt and the
thickness of the washer and their tolerances shall take this into account.

The position of the bolt holes must be selected so as to prevent corrosion and facilitate the
installation of the bolts.

The member members or any other elements to be extended must be assembled end-to-end by
means of bolted joint covers. The assembly by covering of the elements is prohibited.

The towers are envisaged for crane mounting. The distribution of the joints on the member allows
easy mounting on the crane. For large tetrapods, a seal in the middle of the horizontal bar will be
provided. Particular attention is paid to the feasibility of assembling the tower elements by
rigorously checking the position and diameter of the drilled holes, the angle of the bent gussets, etc.

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6.3. Brackets

6.3.1. Dimensions of the earth (shield) cable supports

The dimensions of the earth (shield) cable supports are, among other things, a protection angle of
30° maximum for towers supporting a earth (shield) cable (trestle guard) and a maximum of 15° for
towers supporting two earth (shield) cables by means of brackets unless otherwise specified in the
tender.

FIG. 1 - PROTECTION ANGLE DEPENDS ON THE TENSION LEVEL AND FASTENING/HANGING TYPE: L
= 0 IN ANCHOR

6.3.2. Fastening (hooking) devices

The design of the bracket nozzles with the hooking devices shall comply with the instruction note
“Hooking devices for equipment, pulleys and pull-lifts”.

All the 225 kV straight line towers are designed to be fitted in suspension.

Each string is hooked to the bracket by means of a hinge whose dimensions are specified in § 2.1. of
the instruction note “Fastening devices for equipment, pulleys and pull-lifts” unless otherwise
specified in the tender notice. The location and number of hinges or other hooking devices and the
starting (outgoing) angle of the insulator strings shall be determined by the Contractor when the
load table is prepared.
6.4. Tetrapods

The angle formed by the main diagonal of a tetrapod (strut/brace) and the member is at least 20°.
The geometry of the alternating lattices is excluded.

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6.5. Braces

The horizontal bracing is intended to protect the structure of any overall or partial instability effect.
The horizontal bracing must be sufficiently rigid to prevent partial buckling with partial factor yF = 1
according to § J.7.1., Point 4 of EN 50341-1 [1].

The types of bracing are defined in § J.7.1. of EN 50341-3 [1] standard. However, with the agreement
of the Client, the Contractor may propose other types of geometry.

In particular, horizontal bracing must be provided:

 at the bottom plane of each bracket;

 at a change in inclination of the tower body;
 at the level where the alternating lattice begins or ends;
 at the top level of each tetrapod.

In any case, the vertical distance between two consecutive horizontal braces must be less than 25 m.

6.6. Base plates

6.6.1. Shape and dimensions

The members of the towers are prolonged by a base grouted in the concrete foundation. For each
foot, the foundation is constituted in principle by a footing/sole surmounted by an oblique column
embedding the footing/base. The assembly of the tower members on the footings is done out of this
concrete by means of bolted joint covers. The footing/base should go down into the soleplate where
it is provided with cross-welded angles (cleats).

Two or four Ø 14 mm holes spaced 50 mm apart are drilled in the footing/base at the lower level to
allow connection of the earthing electrodes in accordance with the instruction note “Earthing of the
towers”.

The level of the theoretical point lies outside the concrete and 700 mm above the ground at the
height of the foot for which the ground/soil level is the highest. This ground/soil level is considered
at level 0. The height of the member section between the upper point of the concrete (diamond
point/drilling) and the theoretical point will be reduced to a maximum and will not exceed 80 mm.

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Fig. 2 Dimensions of a footing/base

Two Ø 17.5 mm holes in the footing/base (1 hole per wing) must be provided 200 mm above the
theoretical point in order to be able to adjust the placement of the footings/bases (see figure 2).
The towers are designed so that they can accept the following tolerances in the position of the
footings/bases (the imposed values are maximum values):

Tolerance on the absolute level of the theoretical point with respect to the ground level as indicated
in the jointly signed stake-out report: 10 mm (the reference level being the nail of the surveyor
indicating the tower center).

Tolerance on the relative level of the footings/bases: linear tolerance between 2 mm for a zero
theoretical spacing between footings, up to 5 mm for a spacing of 12 m.

This tolerance of 5 mm remains constant for spacing greater than 12 m: it is understood as a spacing
between the extreme levels of the 4 footings of a tower.

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Tolerance on the distances between the faces of footings (according to the dimensions and
diagonals of the lower and upper bases of the footings). It is 2% of the spacing between footings up
to a maximum spacing of 5 m, then 0.5% of the additional spacing with a tolerance ceiling of 15 mm.
This tolerance is ± in relation to the dimensions shown on the drawings.

6.6.2. Extenders

If the high voltage line crosses an area where backfill is to be expected, the theoretical point of the
tower legs should be considered to be positioned at least 700 mm above the future level of backfill
and may be fixed up to several meters above ground level (see Figure 3).

FIG. 3 – EXTENDERS

In this case, in order to allow the tower to be assembled, the extenders must be provided
connecting the footing grouted in the foundation to the tower member. These extenders are
intended to be encased/ embedded with concrete during the assembly of the tower. As much as
possible, they form a single piece with the footings.

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6.6.3. Unlevelled footings

When the soil/ ground surface between 2 legs of any tower has differences in level below the height
H of the first triangulation of the first tetrapod of the tower, these are compensated by footings of
unequal lengths encased/ embedded in the concrete of the foundation tower bodies (See Figure 4).

FIG. 4 - FOOTINGS OF INEQUAL LENGTHS

If this level difference exceeds the height of the first triangulation of the first tower tetrapod, the
lower part of the tower must be adapted to compensate for the difference in height between each
LEG (see Figure 5).

FIG. 5 - ADAPTED TETRAPOD

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7. TECHNOLOGICAL DEVICES

7.1. Safety devices

The towers are provided with safety devices.

7.2. Anti-climbing device

The towers are equipped at a height ranging between 3 m and 4 m (at the first belt) above the
ground level of an anti-climbing device comprising a row of inwardly and outwardly directed points
of the tower and fixed in such a way that the climbing of the tower is made difficult with no special
means. The spacing between these points is 200 mm.

At the request of the Client, this device is supplemented by defenses/fenders fixed on the bracing
bars possibly located in the same plane as the device, in the event that the Client deems that access
to the tower is easy from the inside of the tower by means of these bars

7.3. Step (ladder) bolts

The rows of step bolts begin at the anti-climbing device and terminate at the top of the tower.

The step (ladder) bolts are installed on two diagonally opposite members (front right and rear left
looking in the axis of the high voltage line) or on a single member (right front in the direction of
increasing numbers) according to the following table:

Voltage level Number of circuits Number of rows of step bolts

225 kV 1 or 2 2

The rows of step bolts are equipped on site with anchor points and double pig tails/ spiral
disconnects. The positions of the step bolts take these into account and are indicated on the
drawings.

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7.4. Tagging of the towers

To avoid any confusion of tower, circuit or high voltage line, each tower is equipped with permanent
marking. Unless otherwise specified in the tender notice, this identification includes:

 Identification panels with corresponding slides.

 4 circuit plates and 4 safety limit plates.
 A helicopter marking plate every ten towers.

The identification signs and the circuit and safety limit plates and their supports must be drawn
(sketched).

7.4.1. Identification signs

The identification signs are fixed perpendicular to the anti-climbing device and replacing two
defense points using a profile. In this case, no additional holes are to be provided in the towers.
Alternatively, the 4 fixing holes of the slides for the identification panels are provided on each face of
the tower at the level of the defenses.

7.4.2. Circuit Plates and Safety Limit Plates

At the level of the defenses, four circuit plates (two per circuit) are mounted.

Four safety limit plates (two per circuit), identical to the circuit plates, are mounted on horizontal
brackets, hooked by 2 bolts, below the lower bracket at a vertical distance of at least:

 11.0 m for voltage levels greater than 225 kV;

 7.1 m in 225 kV

These safety limit plates are provided in and inside the transverse faces near the members.

The circuit plates are fixed directly on the angle brackets supporting the defense points. The safety
limit plates are attached to an intermediate angle of 45 x 45 x 5 mm in galvanized steel.

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7.5. Marking

7.5.1. Lighted beacons

In the event that it is necessary to install lighted beacons on certain towers, the Contractor shall
equip these towers with all the devices necessary for fixing the lighted beacons, power cables,
protective pipes, bifurcation boxes, etc. and for safe access.

All the details concerning this question are then specified to the Contractor by the company
responsible for the installation of the high voltage line.

7.5.2. Red / white paint markings

If the red / white painting (marking with paint) of a tower is to be carried out immediately after
installation, the paint must be adapted to the location of the tower and the galvanization used (see §
9.1.2).

7.6. Grounding

7.6.1. Ground balls with brackets for conductors

The Contractor shall also envisage holes for fixing an earth ball (Arcus type) in the drawing of the
lower ends of the conductor brackets.

7.6.2. Holes for earthing of the equipment

Holes for the earthing of the equipment are provided at each bracket for conductors with a voltage
level higher than 225 kV and an earth (shield) cable holder.

7.6.3. Measurement of earth resistance of towers

In order to be able to measure the earth resistance of the tower, an earthing ball (Arcus type) must
be placed by the contractor in the hole used to adjust the footings (see figure 2 in paragraph 6.6.1.)
on the foot number 1 of the tower according to the figure 10 in § 12.6.

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8. STUDY (ENGINEERING)

As mentioned above in the document, the Contractor will mainly rely on the EN 50341 standard to
make sizing of the towers.

The concepts presented in this document are provided to the Contractor only as an indication, the
Contractor being solely responsible for the accuracy of the models, equations, tools ... which he will
use to carry out the sizing.

If EN 50341 standard and the method presented in this document lead to different results, the
contractor will take into account the most constraining results.

8.1. Calculation basis

8.1.1. Design values

In general, the design value of an action, Fd, is expressed as:

Please refer to the equation

The partial factor for the actions, yF (see table in § 8.2.8.), depends on the selected level of reliability
and takes into account the possibility of unfavorable alternatives of actions, incorrect modeling and
uncertainties in the estimates of their effects. The characteristic value of an action, FK, is its principal
representative value used for verifications in the ultimate state.

The design value of a material property, Xd, is generally defined by:

Please refer to the equation

The partial factor for the material property, yM (see § 7.3.5 and § 7.3.6 of EN 50341-3 [1] standard),
covers the unfavorable alternatives arising from the characteristic values of the material property ,
XK, and uncertainties on the geometric properties and the resistance model.

8.1.2. Basic equation for design

In the partial factor method, it is verified that ultimate limit states are not achieved while applying
design values for actions, material properties, and geometric data in design models.

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Thus, the utilization factor u is at most equal to 1:

Please refer to the equation

Where
Ed is the total design value corresponding to the effect of actions such as internal force or moment;

Rd is the corresponding structural design resistance that associates all the structural properties with
the respective design values.

8.1.3. Calculation of internal forces

The internal stresses in a statically indeterminate structure must be calculated using first order total
elastic analysis. The wire mesh (metal lattice) towers are considered as articulated lattice structures.

Exceptionally, as in the case of a horizontal belt without horizontal bracing, the local bending
moments caused by wind stress on the individual elements must be taken into account.

8.1.4. Modeling bracket nozzles/ tips

The bracket nozzles/ tips should be modeled as “open” with separate fastening points for
equipment, pull-lifts and pulley in accordance with the instruction note “Equipment for Pulleys and
Pull-Lifts”. It is on this basis that the lattice in the brackets can be sized.

8.2. Actions

8.2.1. Permanent stresses

The own weight of the various elements of the tower, of the equipment and the cables act as
permanent stresses.

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8.2.2. Wind loads/ stresses

Wind directions

Refer to EN 50431.

Wind pressures

- Wind pressures are calculated using EN50341 standard.

- Ground category I.

- The basic speed of the wind is 130 km / h or 36 m / s for 3 seconds. The corresponding dynamic
reference pressure qh is of the order of 800 N / m2.

Wind Efforts

The dynamic pressure having been defined, the wind loads on the line elements: conductors,
insulators, towers will be calculated using EN 50341 standard.

8.2.3. Effects of temperature

In the case of a complete installation of the cables, the effects of the temperature on the cables are
applied as described below:
+ 35 °C combined with maximum normal and exceptional wind;

+ 5 °C combined with normal maximum wind (deciding factor if spans are short).

8.2.4. Maintenance and mounting / pulling stresses (safety of personnel)

8.2.4.1. WEIGHT OF A MAN

In the case of maintenance and mounting / pulling stresses, all lattice bars must be able to withstand
a vertical load of 100 daN in addition to the axial forces (with a partial factor of 1.50), corresponding
to the cases with the presence of a man. In this case, the maximum stress in the angle bracket is
determined by the simultaneous effect of the bending due to the transverse load and the axial
compressive or tensile force in the angle bracket.

8.2.4.2. ROLLING LOAD

For the brackets, it is also necessary to consider a rolling load (the weight of a man is already
included). The rolling load on any bracket is to be combined with the stresses of the maintenance or
assembly cases.

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This rolling load is considered to be a local load distributed equally on each of the two horizontal
stringers/beams of the concerned bracket. It can be applied at any intermediate point along the
stringers/beams between the tower body and the bracket end and therefore also at mid-span
between 2 knots. This load is added to the axial forces. In addition, the additional axial force must be
taken into account by putting the rolling load also at the end of the bracket.

Fig. 7 – Application of the rolling load Fmob to a bracket

The rolling load on the trestle guard is considered to be a local load applied along the vertical axis of
the tower.

P 332

The selected values of the rolling loads for the sizing of the brackets of the conductors and the
brackets of the earth (shield) cable or the trestle guard depend on the level of tension and the type
of fastening/hooking:

Voltage Level Conductors placed in earth (shield)

cable
Anchor suspension or semi-anchor
225 kV 1100 daN 350 daN 350 daN

8.2.4.3. EFFORTS AT THE TIPS OF THE BRACKET

The forces transmitted to the bracket tips during stringing on pulley (pulling), pull-lifts handling and
hooking and unhooking operations are described in the instruction note “Hooking devices for
equipment, pulleys and pull- lifts” [15] and are shown schematically below (the values P, T and L
correspond respectively to the vertical, transverse and longitudinal forces of the cable):
Fig 8a: Forces at bracket tip in case of lifted cable

Fig 8b: Forces at bracket tip in case of pulled cable

Fig 8c: Forces at bracket tip in case of cable in asplit hole /pull-lift

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8.2.5. Accidental stresses

In the case of accidental stresses, the towers must be able to withstand the stresses caused by the
breakage of one or more cables.

Generally, all the towers are calculated for breaking of any conductor or earth (shield) cable in a
span (torsional stresses). In the special case of the terminal (dead-end) tower, this tower is also
calculated for the simultaneous rupture of one or more circuits in the same span.

8.2.6. Force (load) Table

The forces transmitted to the towers by the conductors and the earth (shield) cable(s), indicated in
the load table, arise from:

 cable traction;
 the effect of wind and possible icing on cables and insulator strings;
 the weight of the cables and insulator strings. They are distributed in three directions:

T: horizontal parallel to the main brackets;

L: horizontal perpendicular to the main brackets (along the axis of the high voltage line);

P: Vertical pointing downwards.

The force (load) table gives the forces of the stresses by hooking point and by bracket. The number
of circuits installed the cases of stresses to be considered and the layout-designs will also be
specified in the force (load) table.

P 334

8.2.7. Case of stresses

The actions to be taken into account are shown in the following table:

Stress Type of Conductors qh Wind Temp. Man + YF yM Design

cases tower rolling factor
load (yF x
yM)
Exceptional All All the cables 1.5 qb Turning/ 35° C no 1,00 1.25 1.25
(E) installed and intact rotating
Normal (N) All All the cables 1 qb Turning/ 35° C no 2.0 1.25 2.5
installed and intact 1/4qb rotating 5° C 1.25 2.5
Accidental All 1 phase or 1 cdg any 1 qb transv. 35° C no 1,25 1.25 1.5625
(A) one broken
dead- 1 or ≥ 2 circuits + 1.25 1.5625
end/terminal cdg broken
Maintenance All 1 phase or 1 cdg any 1/4qb transv. 35° C Yes 1,50 1.1 1.65
(M) off-hook
dead- 1 or ≥ 2 circuits + 1.1 1.65
 end/terminal cdg off-hook
Assembly / All 1 or ≥ 2 circuits + 1/4qb transv. 35° C Yes 1,50 1.1 1.65
pulling (T) cdg strung on pullies
1 phase or cdg 1.1 1.65
dans split hole
(pull-lift)

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All the actions are to be multiplied by the partial factor yF corresponding to the considered case of
stresses.

Generally, the wind is considered transversely at the tower (in the direction of the transverse axis T =
100 gon). For normal and exceptional loads, only a rotating wind (0, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 200, 250,
300, 350 gon) is considered on the tower.

In addition, three cases of additional stresses (stress group = “P” with yF = 1.00) are provided:

 1 case with own weight of the tower only;

 1 case with own weight of the tower + normal wind at 100 gon;
 1 case with own weight of the tower + normal wind at 0 gon.

8.3. Organic calculation

8.3.1. General Information

The organic calculation is fully subordinated at Annex J of EN 50341-1 [1] standard taking into
account the National Normative Aspects with the exception of § J.5.4. [1] which is replaced by the
next paragraph § 8.3.2.

The limiting stresses in rolled steel parts are defined according to EN 10025 standard:

Limit of elasticity/ yield strength fy (N/mm2)

Designation Thickness < 16 mm 16 mm < Thickness < 40 tensile rupture
mm (breaking) stress f
(N/mm2)
S235JR 235 225 360
S275JT 275 265 430
S335JR 355 345 510

S355JO

P 336

8.3.2. Axial bending and compression

The elements stresses in bending and axial compression must satisfy the following relationships
(ASCE 10-97):

Please refer to the equations

Where

Nd is the compression force

N r,d is the design value of the buckling strength/resistance
Cii is the moment factor defined below
Mdii is the bending moment about the axis i at the points defined below
W effi is the elastic modulus of effective section corresponding to the Mdii
fy is the yield strength
Aeff is the effective area of the cross-section

Please refer to the equations

E is the modulus of elasticity;

Iii is the moment of inertia about the axis i
Lii is the effective buckling length along the axis i

If there are no transverse loads between the points of support, Mdyy and Mdzz are the greatest
moments at these points in equations (1) and (2). The moment factor Cii is defined as follows:

Please refer to the equations

Where M1ii and M2ii are the bending moments around the axis i at the holding/support points so
that M2ii≥ M1ii. Their ratio is considered positive if they are in the same direction. If there are
transverse loads between the support points, Mdyy and Mdzz are the maximum moments between
these points in equation (1) and the greatest moments at these points in equation (2). In this case,
the moment factor is taken equal to 1.

P 337

8.3.3. Limitation of deformations/ distortion

In the case of maintenance and mounting stresses, the elastic deformations (with partial factor yF =
1) are limited as follows:

Top of tower: 1/100 of tower height (horizontally);

Single bracket without tie rod: 1/150 of the length (vertically / horizontally);

Platform bearing element: 1/250 of the span (vertically).

8.3.4. Frequency limitation

Each tower bar, taken individually, must have a natural frequency of at least 2 Hz.

However, the bars of the horizontal braces and the crossbars of the tower body have a natural
frequency at least equal to 1.25 times the first natural frequency of the tower itself.

P 338

9. MANUFACTURING

9.1. Requirements for steel types

The steel must meet the requirements of EN 10025 [5] and EN 10027 [7] standards. The preferred
types of steels are:
S235 JR;
S275 JR
S355 JR
S355 JO

The type of steel is clearly indicated on the plan. There can be no confusion between the types of
steel selected. The Contractor may use other types of steel in Table A.1 of EN 10025-2 [5] standard,
only with the written consent of the Client.

9.1.1. Protection against corrosion

The towers and their accessories, the anti-climbing device, the footings, equipment, materials, etc
are hot-dip galvanized according to EN ISO 1461 [12] standard and correspond to category C5M, high
durability (1st maintenance> 15 years) according to ISO 129441 standard. Furthermore, throughout
the route after the galvanization step, the towers will also be protected by coats of paints. This
combination of galvanization and painting is called “duplex system”. The galvanization and painting
steps will comply with the below paragraphs.

9.1.1.1. GALVANIZATION

The galvanization must be air cooled and not in water or oil.

The sheets are shot blasted before thermal galvanization. No retouching to galvanization with any
paint whatsoever can be done.

All the members, including base plates to be grouted in the foundation, shall be hot dip galvanized in
accordance with the instructions described below.
1
In any case, the contractor shall select the most appropriate technology between the level of
durability specified in the standard for the first maintenance and the complete system with
combination of paint and galvanization (duplex system).

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The galvanization thickness will be minimum 130 microns, equivalent to 915g / m2 for all the
structures.

The uniformity of the coating shall be assessed by the Preece test in accordance with ASTM A 239
standard or according to the coating weight test described in ASTM A90M with the following
tolerance limits:

Number of one-minute immersions for the Preece Test: minimum 9 for 915g / m2;

Minimum average thickness for coating weight test: 130µm for 915g / m2.

The base plates will be galvanized over their entire height.

The galvanization will conform to the ASTM A143M, ASTM A384M and ASTM A385M
recommendations
The embrittlement tests will be carried out on structural steel whose properties satisfy ASTM A572M
in accordance with ASTM A143.

9.1.1.2. DUPLEX SYSTEM (COMBINATION OF PAINT AND GALVANIZATION)

The Duplex system is the combination of two techniques for corrosion protection: galvanization and
painting.

The expected lifetime for this system will be minimum 30 years or more.

The paint coats shall be applied after the galvanization step described in the paragraph 9.1.1.1. In
other words, the first coat of paint will be produced on parts having a zinc coating of minimum 130
μm thickness.

The paint system will consist of a primer coat, intermediate coats and topcoats. The paint coats
thickness shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, subject to the approval
by the Client. The first two coats shall be applied in the factory of the manufacturer or in a workshop
in Mauritania approved by the competent authorities and approved by the Engineer, the following
coats shall be applied on site and shall include nuts, bolts, washers, locknuts, ...

All the details of the Duplex paint system and its implementation procedure will be submitted to the
client for review and approval. The paint supplied will be of high quality. It will be based on iron
oxide with high quality epoxy / micacea finishing and will be submitted to the approval of the Client.

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9.1.2. Requirements for the steel supply

On the other hand, the supply of steel is subject to the following requirements:

 A certificate of acceptance “3.1.” issued according to the requirements of EN 10204 [14]

standard. Particular attention will be paid to the correspondence between the type of steel
supplied and the type indicated on the drawings. A reception at the rolling mills by the
receiving agents of the Contractor, possibly accompanied by the delegates of the Client, may
be imposed at the request of the Client;
 A certificate that guarantees that the steel used is suitable for thermal galvanization
according to EN ISO 1461 [12] standard.

These certificates are communicated to the Client or his representative.

9.2. Bolts, nuts and washers

9.2.1. Requirements for bolts

The bolts used for assembling the elements of the towers (see § 6.2.), as well as the step (ladder)
bolts, are standard/ordinary bolts with hexagonal nut heads according to DIN 7990 [9] standard. The
nuts comply with EN ISO 4034 [10] and washers with DIN 7989 [11].

Only M12, M16, M20 and M24 bolts of 6.8 or higher quality may be included in the scope of supply.
The nuts will be class 8.
The quality class symbol and the manufacturer's brand shall appear on the screw heads and nuts in
accordance with EN ISO 898-1 [8] standard. The quality grade of the minimum quality bolts is shown
on the drawing.

The bolt lengths are designed such that, after insertion and tightening, their ends project at least
two threads beyond the nut. The length of the bolts is indicated on the drawings.

9.2.2. Galvanization

All the bolts, nuts and washers, including step bolts, are galvanized according to EN ISO 10684 [13]
standard.

The galvanization must be carried out in such a way as to prevent bottlenecks in the bottoms of
threads. After galvanization, the threading of the rods cannot be retouched. The nuts must be able
to be assembled entirely by hand, with no appreciable play (i.e. bold fitting without tilting).

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9.2.3. Reserve Surplus

The bolts, nuts and washers are supplied with a reserve surplus of at least 5% rounded off to the
upper unit.

9.3. Drilling of holes

It is permitted to punch the holes in all angles and gussets except in each of the following cases
where drilling is required, that means:

 in the horizontal beams of the brackets;

 in the parts of the bracket nozzles/tips receiving fasteners of conductors or earth (shield)
cables;
 when the part thickness is greater than 16 mm;
 when the hole diameter is less than the part thickness.

The nominal diameter before galvanization of the hole is indicated on the drawing and is different
from the diameter of the smooth part of the bolt. The difference corresponds to the play which is
generally 1.5 mm.

9.4. Bending of parts

Any part to be bent must be bent in accordance with EN 10025 [5] standard.

9.5. Welding

In all cases where manufacturing welds are liable to be subjected to high stresses, as may be the
case with parts subjected to alternating stresses which are stressed during operation, the contractor
must provide the owner with a general layout of the manufacture and, subsequently but before the
beginning of manufacture, a detailed diagram of all the welding preparations proposed for the
manufacture.
The welders or welding operators must be qualified and approved by the owner.

The owner reserves the right to inspect the work during the welding of the manufacture.

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9.6. Anti-climbing devices and steps

Each tower must be equipped with an approved type of anti-climbing device fitted with doors
allowing authorized personnel to climb. This device will comprise a row of points directed inwards
and outwards of the tower and fixed in such a way that the climbing of the tower is made difficult by
special means. The spacing between these points is 200 mm.

The height of the anti-climbing device may be either adjustable, or on members forming an integral
part of the tower, within the limits of 3 m and 4 m from the ground (at the first belt) with respect to
the case of normal height tower. When the tower is erected on sloping terrain, the height should be
measured from the foot of the tower where the ground is highest. If necessary, an additional
protection must be provided on braces of the same plane.

Each tower shall be provided with step (ladder) bolts of an approved type attached to the diagonally
opposite legs; they shall be spaced at the most 380 mm apart over the entire length of the tower,
commencing immediately above the anti-climbing device and continuing up to the top of the tower
peak or the top cross-member of the earth (shield) cable. The step bolts must be at least 150 mm
long and 16 mm in diameter. The holes shall be provided under the anti-climbing devices for step
bolts at the above-mentioned centers. The sets of step bolts adapted to these holes must, if
necessary, be provided by the owner.

9.7. Number and Danger Plates

Two number plates and a hazard plate of approved types shall be provided on each tower.

The number plate indicates the transmission line name, tower number and circuit numbers. The
danger plate serves to attract attention.

The number plates are provided with a removable tower number.

All the plates and fastening bolts must be made of anti-corrosive materials. If enamelled iron plates
are used, the entire surface of each plate, including the back and edges, shall be adequately covered
and corrosion resistant. The colors of all plates must be permanent and free of discoloration. For
enamelled plates, washers of approved material must be provided at the rear and at the front of the
bolts or of the fixing screws.

The danger/hazard and number plates shall be fixed at a height of approximately 3.0 m from the
ground.

The angles with pre-drilled holes must be provided for the fixing of hazard and number plates.

P 343

10. MARKING, PACKAGING AND TRANSPORT

10.1 Marking

All the tower elements are carefully marked by punching. The affixed marks correspond to the marks
shown on the drawings. The marks are punched to a depth sufficient to be legible after
galvanization.

The marking is done in such a way that the same marks are never found on two different types of
towers.

10.2. Packaging

The towers are delivered completely disassembled, bars in bundles, bolts in wooden bags or boxes,
gussets and joint-covers in packets.

The weight of a strapped package is limited to 1500 kg.

All the elements are packed tower by tower, plan by plan. This means that the same bars of different
towers of the same type cannot be included in the same package.

The bars and gussets are securely tied by means of wires passing through a hole in the bar or gusset.
The bolts are in sacks, which are in closed drums, or in wooden cases.

Each bundle of bars, gusset pack, bolt drum is marked with the contract number of the Contractor,
the common part of the marking differentiating the parts of one type of manufacture (class) from
another, the type of tower of the Client, as well as the parcel number.

In addition, each package shall bear a metal tag bearing the name of the high voltage line, the type
of tower and the drawing number. These indications must be indelible and remain clearly visible
during the transport.

10.3. Transport

Upon receipt of each consignment, the packing lists shall be pointed by the company responsible for
assembling the towers under the possible control of the Client and, if the Contractor so wishes, in
the presence of his delegate.

Each steel shipment, by any transport whatsoever, must be accompanied by a packing slip giving the
quantities shipped with their quality.

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11. CONTROLS AND TESTS

11.1. General Information

The right of acceptance, control, receiving and supervision by the Client (also called the Client) as
well as the Engineer shall not confer on either of them the quality of contractor and in no way
diminishes the Contractor's liability.

11.2. Visual and dimensional control

The entire supply of the elements can be visually and dimensionally checked.

It is verified in particular that the profiles and gussets are free of local corrugation and that all parts
are free of burrs. The nominal dimensions and tolerances are also verified.

11.3. Pre-shipment receipt

Before shipment of a complete set of towers, the Contractor shall take sample of a number of bars
and / or gussets from the same tower for each type of tower included in the consignment to be
shipped.

On the test pieces obtained from each bar and / or gusset, the Contractor shall perform:

 A tensile test according to EN 10025 [5] standard;

 A galvanization test according to EN ISO 1461 [12] standard.

As regards the bolts, the acceptance tests shall be carried out on 0.5% of the parts relating to each
lot, with a minimum of 3 pieces per test. They include:

 A test program B according to EN ISO 898-1 [8] standard;

 A galvanization test according to EN ISO 10684 [13] standard.

A report with the results of these tests must be sent to the Client, even if the latter does not attend
the reception/acceptance.

P 345

11.4. Assembly of prototypes (shop test assembly)

Before starting mass production of the towers, a prototype of each type of towers will be
manufactured and assembled in the factory.

The Contractor shall carry out at least the shop test assembly of a T-type suspension tower, a WA40
type angle tower and a WA70 type angle tower.

11.5. Testing of large size towers

A T-type suspension tower, a WA40 type angle tower and a WA70 and WA90 type angle tower are
tested in a specialized test station, based on the stress cases mentioned in the force (load) table.

In order to define the forces applied to the towers during the tests, account must be taken of the
stresses indicated in the stress (load) tables, increased to take account of the wind action on the
tower and multiplied by the design factor corresponding to the various cases of stresses defined in §
8.2.8.

Each test is conducted as follows:

 Increase of the load applied up to a value equal to 90% of the limit load indicated above,
with a speed left to the choice of the experimenter;
 90 to 100% increase of the limit load in 5 minutes or, if this is not possible, at the maximum
speed permitted by the station equipment;
  Maintaining this limit load for one minute, without any permanent failure or deformation
occurring in the members, diagonals or assemblies of the tower. If this is not the case, the
faulty or deformed element is replaced by an appropriate characteristics element and the
test is repeated.

In agreement with the Client, one of the tests envisaged for each tower is conducted until it breaks,
by increasing one or more loads beyond the prescribed limits. The loads having provoked fracture
are indicated in the test reports.

After each type test of tower, the characteristics of the steel of certain bars selected by the Client
and from the tested tower are checked. This verification includes determination of limit of
elasticity/yield strength, breaking load and elongation at break. The tower(s) to be tested is (are)
galvanized and identical to those envisaged for the supply.

P 346

In his tender, the Contractor shall designate the test station recommended by him. He shall mention
the price of tests per tower, taking account of the costs of transport and insurance, assembly and
dismantling, the actual testing costs and all the related impedimenta. The travel and accommodation
costs of the Client's or Engineer's agents are also borne by the Contractor

The tests shall be carried out as soon as possible after the manufacture of the first towers.

For prototypes for which no full-scale test has been requested, the Client reserves the right to carry
out strength tests only on assembled and fully galvanized brackets. For this purpose, the same loads
are applied to the brackets with the same modalities as specified above for the entire towers.

In the event that these tests show weaknesses for stresses equal to or lower than those normally
envisaged, the Contractor shall be obliged to remedy them immediately for the entire tower without
any additional costs being incurred by the client.

After replacement of all the elements of the tower which have undergone any permanent
deformation/ distortion or permanent breakage during the test, the tested tower may be included in
the scope of supply.

11.6. Galvanization

Tests on samples

The samples, selected by the client, of all zinc-coated equipment shall, unless otherwise approved,
be subjected to the tests specified in BSEN ISO 1461 standard.

The galvanization thickness must be measured; the members, bolts and nuts shall also be subjected
to a Preece test.

P 347

12. DOCUMENTATION

12.1. General Information

The Contractor shall be fully responsible for the calculation of the towers, including the completion
of the table showing the loads/ forces and of the components of the towers. This responsibility
remains in full, even if the Contractor has complied with official regulations, standards or
stipulations of this General Technical Specification.

12.2. At the time of the tender/offer

The offer is accompanied by the tower outline with main dimensions of each type of tower after
placing the order

All the complete documents and execution plans with all dimensions and calculation note are
submitted in two copies in English and French for the approval of the Client progressively as they are
established, all the documents shall be received within the time limit specified in the order.

The drawings and the calculation note are accompanied by technical data sheets giving, tower type-
wise, the separate weights of the members and crosspieces/ lattice of the tower bodies, brackets,
corner brackets and bolts, as well as the surfaces to be painted separated from the tower body and
brackets.

The certificates for the steel supply are also to be communicated to the Client in one copy.

If the design of all or part of the tower deviates from a traditional conventional design and requires
special precautions during handling and assembly, the Contractor shall also hand over a handling
notice and a plan with dimensions to the Client.

Any necessary modifications resulting from drawing or study (engineering) errors which have been
revealed during the assembly are corrected on the drawing by the Contractor at his own expense.

12.3. After supply of the towers

All the documents, As Built execution plans and calculation note (modifications in the meantime
shall have already been made) are submitted in four copies, two in English and two in French, to the
Client. The quality of these documents is such as to make it possible to file them clearly afterwards.

P 348

12.4. Composition of Implementation Plans

The execution (implementation) plans consist of an overall plan with the corresponding detailed
plans, a list of plans and a list of materials plan-wise. On the overall plan, a horizontal section must
be drawn indicating:

 the orientation of the high voltage line;

 the direction of the brackets;
 the position of the row (s) of step bolts;

PN+1

High voltage line axis

PN-1

FIG. 9 – HORIZONTAL SECTION OF THE PN TOWER

For each detailed plan, a tower diagram must be drawn, the corresponding part of which is printed
in bold.

12.5. Composition of the calculation note

It is necessary to provide a calculation note with the information required for the verification and
shall be submitted in a clear and concise manner on A4 paper for the Client, the Engineer and, where
appropriate, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the main objective being to reduce its size and make it
easily comprehensible.

It is necessary to provide a calculation note with the information required for the verification and
presented in a clear and concise manner on A4 paper for the Client, the Engineer and, where
appropriate, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, The main objective being to reduce its size and make
it easily comprehensible.

P 349

This calculation note is organized as follows:

Cover Page

With the name of the high voltage line, the type of tower, etc.

Calculation assumptions

With the basic data, the stress cases considered with their corresponding partial factors, the type
and the yield strength of the steels and the quality classes of the bolts.

Tower outlines

With the necessary information for verification, such as key dimensions, node position, bar numbers
and axis systems (possibly on A3 format paper).

Stress cases

With the stress forces/efforts by stress case-wise, the names and / or the numbers of the stress
cases and the points of application of these forces/efforts.

Wind on the tower

With the wind forces/efforts and the weights per section of tower as well as their total weights and
the first natural frequency of the tower.

Internal forces/efforts

With the internal forces for each bar family and each stress group (order: E/N/G/A / M+T), giving the
maximum internal force value and the corresponding stress case number for each family of bars.
Organic calculation of bars

In the form of a summary table for each family of bars with the most important case number and the
corresponding utilization factor.

Stresses on foundations

With the stress forces on the foundations (overall and leg-wise of the tower), the directions of these
forces as well as the calculation of the section located between the theoretical point and the upper
level of the concrete for each case of stresses. The 4 feet of the tower must be numbered according
to figure 10.

Conclusion

The results obtained with the conclusions.

P 350

The computer listings with “inputs” are possibly appended to the calculation note on a CD-ROM.

PN+1

High voltage line axis

PN-1

Fig. 10 Numbering of PN tower legs

13. ANNEXES

Annex A: Safety Rules for High Voltage Towers

Annex B: Circuit and Safety Limit Plate

P 351

ANNEX A

Safety rules for high voltage towers

1
Based on Gecoli B6936 note, November 1983.
352

1. ACCESS DEVICES

1.1. Step bolt devices and ladders

The standard for climbing to the tower is the row of step bolts or second row of step bolts.

The ladder can be considered only under exceptional conditions: for example the oblique part of the
towers cat’s head. In order to guarantee the “handrail”, in this case a fairly strong profile must be
mounted at 1.30 m above the edge and parallel to the slope of the ladder/staircase on both sides.
The anchor points M16 must be installed with a distance of 1 m. This construction must be strong
enough to withstand the fall of a person who is attached to it with its personal protective equipment
descent (fall) control device.

The step bolt devices shall meet the following criteria (figure A1):

 the step bolts are spaced 35 cm apart one from another;

 the distance from a step bolt to an upper obstacle is not less than 0.15m;
 the bolt is made of mild steel (minimum quality class 5.8) with a diameter of at least 20 mm,
provided with two nuts; the bearing length of the smooth part of the step bolt is at least
0.12 m.

FIG 1 STEP BOLTS

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The ladders (ordinary or with double handrail) meet the following criteria (figure A2):

 the vertical spacing is regular and with a maximum of 0.35 m;

 the rungs are made of steel, with a diameter of at least 20 mm;
 the working width is at least 0.30 m.

Fig A 2 LADDER WITH DOUBLE HANDRAIL

P 354

1.2. Rest platform (foot-space)

The rest platforms (foot-space) are associated with the climbing devices and established between
the floor/ ground level and the level of the lower brackets according to the table below, as a
function of the height under the lower bracket of the towers.

The distribution is as regular as possible.

height under lower Number of rest maximum height of

bracket (m) platforms 1st rest platform (m)
0-40 0 -
40-55 1 30
55-70 2 30
70-85 3 30
85-100 4 30
The rest platform meets the following criteria:

 It consists of a perforated floor or an expanded metal, withstanding the weight of an

equipped man;
 The area is at least 0.40 m2 and the smallest dimension is not less than 0.60 m.

The figure A3 gives an example of a possible making. However, a dense lattice with parallel bars
(constant distance) whose wings are oriented downwards will also be used as a rest platform after
acceptance by the Engineer.

P 355

FIG. A3 - REST PLATFORM (FOOT-SPACE)

2. MOUVEMENT ON BELT OR LEVEL FRAME

2.1. Bars converging on the belt

When the distance (d), measured at 1.00 m between bars converging on the belt, is greater than
1.20 m, the lattice/mesh is supplemented by an additional horizontal bar, fixed at 1.30 ± 0.15 m
above the belt (fig A4).

FIG. A4 - MOUVEMENT ON BELT OR LEVEL FRAME

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2.2. Bars whose point of convergence is located higher in the structure

When the distance (d'), measured at 1.60 m between converging bars higher in the structure, is (A4
and A5):

 less than or equal to 1.20 m: the structure allows the mouvement;

 Greater than 1.20 m and less than 2/3 of the tower width at that level: the lattice/mesh is
completed by an additional horizontal bar, fixed at 1.30 m ± 0.15 m above the belt ( A4). If L>
9 m, it must be applied at next point;
 Greater than 2/3 of the tower width at this level: the passage is made possible at a level
lower than that of the belt, by the addition of bars in the structure, so as to comply with
condition 2.1. (Figure A5). If the profile of the horizontal frame is wider than 110 mm (then it
is not possible to fasten the snap hooks of safety belt), M16 anchor points must be provided
on this frame with a distance of 1 m.

FIG. A5 – MOUVEMENT UNDER THE BELT LEVEL

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3. MOUVEMENT ON THE BRACKETS

The above rules 2 are also applicable to the vertical face of the bracket (to the horizontal stringers).
The mesh/lattice in the lower side of the bracket shall be deemed to be sufficiently thick to permit
progression within the bracket if no 0.5 m circle can be inscribed in the mesh of the lattice even if
this face is oblique.

FIG. A6 - TROUS SUPPLÉMENTAIRES POUR BOULONS ÉCHELONS

This dense lattice of bracket is regular, with parallel bars (constant distance) whose wing is directed
downwards on the side of the stringer.

4. WORK STATIONS

4.1. Assembly of joints outside main members

FIG. A6 - SUPPLEMENTARY HOLES FOR STEP BOLTS

Two holes for installing step bolts are provided approximately 1.30 m below the main nodes to be
assembled upon forward mouvement, if the closest node (or support position) on the stand-bye
angle is located at less than 0,80 m or more than 1,50 m from the node to be assembled (fig. A6).

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If necessary, other holes are provided which allow the installation of the step bolts necessary to
reach this possible work station starting from a main member.

4.2. Work at the end of bracket

The ends of the brackets include, in addition to the normal arrangements for hooking of anchor
strings, semi-anchor or suspension strings:

 two relief steps 0 16 mm, located at the upper part of the bracket, consisting exclusively a
hooking point for personal protective equipment descent (fall) control device. They are
preferably drawn (sketched) vertically and are at least 5 cm away from a gusset or wing of
an angle bracket so that the snap hook of the safety belt can be passed. The snap hook
cannot rest on the side of the wing of an angle bracket;
 the possibility of hanging a fitter's (portable) ladder, either directly on the angles, or from
holes and an auxiliary hooking device;
 the possibility of installing a hinge (or any other element) in each intended direction of
traction of the electrical cables, identical to that which provides the mechanical interface of
bracket - anchoring string for each of the hookable cables. The spacing between these
connection points is not less than 200 mm;
 the possibility of hanging one or more hinges under the end of the bracket end, depending
on the number of subconductors of a phase, in order to suspend the stringing pulleys.

In the first engineering study of a new type of relief steps, a calculation note or a fall test is required
to demonstrate that the relief steps can withstand the fall of a person at the end of the bracket
according to EN 795 standard.

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ANNEX B
Circuit and safety limit plate

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1. CIRCUIT PLATE

P 361

2. SAFETY LIMIT PLATE AND ITS SUPPORT

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EARTHING OF TOWERS

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DESIGN, SUPPLY AND MOUNTING OF 225 KV LINES BETWEEN NOUAKCHOTT AND ZOUERATE

Grounding of towers

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. OBJECT
2. GROUNDING (EARTHING) REQUIREMENTS
2.1. Regulation
2.1.1. Normative environment
2.1.2. Implications for earthing of overhead lines
2.2. earthing of HV line supports
2.2.1. Basic requirements for protection against defects
2.2.2. Lightning Protection
3. SPECIFICATION FOR THE REALIZATION OF EARTHING
3.1. Wire mesh (metal lattice) towers
3.1.1. General case: 4 separate excavations - see plan (Plan 1) in annex 2
3.1.2. Special case: foundations on piles - see plans (Plan 2), (Plan 3), (Plan
4) in Annex 2
3.1.3. Measurement and control point
3.2. Concrete posts
3.2.1. General case
3.2.2. Double Post
3.2.3. Gantry
3.3. Tubular Steel Tower
3.4. Passage of a fluid line
3.5. Connection of the end towers to the substation earthing
4. LIST OF ANNEXED PLANS - SCHEDULE 2
5. ANNEXES

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1. OBJECT
This instruction provides the necessary grounding (earthing) information for the new HV line
supports. It applies to wire mesh (metal lattice) towers as well as concrete posts or steel tubular
posts.

It consists of two parts: the first provides information on the origin of the earthing requirements; the
second constitutes the technical specification itself.

2. EARTHING/ GROUNDING REQUIREMENTS

2.1. Regulation

The earthing of the HV line supports is necessary to provide protection against electrical shock by
indirect contacts. This grounding shall comply with EN 50341 as well as the following standards:

 IEEE standard 80-2000: Guide for safety in alternating current substation design. New York,
IEEE 1986
 IEEE standard 81-1983: Recommended guide for measuring ground resistance and potential
gradients in the Earth. New York, IEEE, 1983.

If the Contractor wishes to use standards other than those listed below, these standards must be
subjected to the approval of the Client. For this purpose, the Contractor shall attach to his bid a copy
of the most recent edition of the standards he intends to use.

The concepts presented in this section are provided to the Contractor only as an indication, the
Contractor being solely responsible for the accuracy of the models, equations, tools ... which he uses
to carry out the sizing.

2.1.1. Normative environment

The concept of “total ground” to improve safety against indirect contacts in HV (fault situation) was
introduced following the publication of the European standard HD 637 S1 and IEC 61936. This is the
interconnection (e.g. MV / LV cabins, HV line supports, etc.) or by the screens of the underground
power cables or by the earth (shield) cables.

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These two standards introduce this concept in terms of result (a total earth is a earth that
guarantees safety, i.e. potential rise and contact voltages that remain below certain limits) but not in
terms of means.

We can go further and introduce the concept of total earth in terms of means, which specifies the
means to be used to achieve the safety objectives.

It shows, in particular, that when a total earth exists, the requirements in terms of the earth
resistance value of the individual facilities (here the line towers) can be reduced.

Three impedance concepts can be introduced to enable measurement and control of soil efficiency:
the earth resistance (RE), earth impedance (ZE) and loop impedance (ZEB). The first one represents
the dispersion resistance of the facility (local earth) measured by conventional methods (3
electrodes), either in BF if a disconnection is possible, or in HF if not. The second one (Annex 1,
Figure 1) corresponds to the overall impedance measured in BF without disconnection (all earths in
parallel) with the same device (3 electrodes). The third one (Annex 1, Figure 2) represents the loop
impedance formed by RE in series with all the other ground returns (allows a simple measurement,
without disconnection, by current clamp but is not practical for HV facilities> 50 kV).

2.1.2. Implications for the earthing of overhead lines

Basic Requirements

1) provide resistance to predictable mechanical and chemical influences; in particular the line
Contractor will evaluate the risk of corrosion related to the nature of the soil encountered along the
route and will take all necessary protective measures to avoid degradation of the grounding by
corrosion.

2) provide resistance to the thermal action of the fault current.

This implies a sufficient cross-section of the protective conductor as well as its mechanical
protection, corrosion protection and, if applicable, protection of the concrete against the potential
effects of conductor corrosion, thermal effects due to fault currents or lightning, and the frost
effects.

3.2: Realization of earthing

3.2.1: General information

Minimum burial depth: 0.6 m

If vertical or oblique: distance between electrodes at least equal to their length.

1
The “protective conductor” relates to electrical protection; it is therefore the earth conductor.

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(NB: this distance is to be considered half-length for oblique electrodes).

3.2.2: Characteristics

One of the methods or combination of the following methods:

b1) at least 8 m long loop

b2) 4 electrodes/rods of at least 1.5 m (vertical or oblique up to 45 °) + earth loop.

b4) a horizontal electrode of at least 8 m length.

c) Earth resistance RE: ≤10 Ώ if no total earth (no earth (shield) cable);

≤ 15 Ώ if total earth (presence of a earth (shield) cable).

However, these values are subject to re-evaluation if the soil resistivity is greater than 150 Ώm, in
accordance with the method described in 2.2.1.
RE shall be measured before commissioning.

(d) Special cases

There is no obligation to place earth switches for HV line supports (if they are not equipped with
switchgear or transformer).

3.3 Control of the earthing facilities

3.3.2: Compliance check before commissioning

A pre-commissioning conformity check shall be provided by the Contractor.

3.3.3: Periodic checks

Only ZE is measured (RE only if non conformity, possibly in HF)

2.2. Earthing of HV line supports

2.2.1. Basic requirements for protection against defects/faults

When the soil resistivity is less than or equal to 150 Ώm, an initial ground resistance value of less
than respectively 10 Ώ in the general case and less than 15 Ώ when in total earth (interconnection of
the towers by an earth (shield) cable) is imposed.

When the resistivity of the soil is greater than 150 Ώm, the limit is given by the expression:

Please refer to the equation

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By digital simulation (or by analytical calculation) it can be shown that an earth electrode consisting
of a 16 m long loop complemented by 4 earth rods of 1.5 m length ensures an Earth resistance of
about 15 Ώ in a soil of 150 Ώm.

This does not take into account the role of a natural earth electrode provided by the foundation of
the tower or post.

The dimensions of the electrodes, as specified in point 3 below, ensure satisfactory earth resistance,
regardless of the value of the soil resistivity.

In exceptional cases where these dimensions cannot be respected, it should be referred to the
Somelec.

NB: As a first approximation, the earth resistance is inversely proportional to the length of the rods
and of the loop.

2.2.2. Lightning Protection

In addition to protection against indirect contact in the presence of a fault, the earthing of the line
supports also plays an important role in lightning protection.
By limiting the potential rise of the support, the earthing reduces the zone of influence of the
support and also reduces the risk of flashover of the insulators.

A priori, the requirements for lightning protection are not higher than what they are for protection
against faults/defects. However, contrary to what happens for the latter, the total earth, that means
the interconnection of the earths of each support by the earth (shield) wire, plays here only a minor
role. The maximum value of the potential rise is effectively quasi-independent of the presence of the
earth (shield) wire and depends only on the characteristics of the local earth electrode/plate. It is
therefore essential that this is done correctly.
2
The cross section of the conductors is uncritical for the determination of RE
3
Even the most energetic components of the lightning current are effectively evacuated by the earth
(shield) wire.

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3. SPECIFICATION FOR THE REALIZATION OF EARTHING

3.1. Wire mesh (metal lattice) towers

3.1.1. General case: 4 separate excavations - see plan (Plan 1) in annex 2

Four separate excavations from one another are planned for the foundations.

The earth electrode consists of a 50 mm2 bare copper ground loop and 4 rods of at least 1.5 m long
placed on the periphery of the four excavations. The rods are driven at an angle not exceeding 45°
with respect to the vertical.

These rods are preferably 2 meter Copperweld (copper-steel) rods (or equivalent), but may also be
galvanized steel profiles that are more resistant to sinking in hard floors.

The earth loop with a total length of at least 16 m is placed at the bottom of the excavation and
moves up to 1 m from the soil/ground to move from one excavation to the other (zig zag in the
vertical plane). To do this a mini-trench is made between each of the 4 excavations.

The tower earthing is made by connecting the four tower members to the earth loop through 4
protective conductors (for each of the members one bare copper conductor of 50 mm2 fixed to it by
a clamp).

NB: For recent installations> 1980, the earth loop is located at least 1 m deep and at least 60 cm
outside the concrete formwork of tower bodies. It is connected to the protective conductor by a
clamp embedded in the concrete. In addition, the protective conductor is generally embedded in the
footing/base of the foundation.

3.1.2. Special case: foundations on piles - see plans (Plan 2), (Plan 3), (Plan 4) in Annex 2

The principle of earthing is equivalent to that described in point 3.1.1 above.

The main feature is that the earth loop is placed here at 1 m depth. The tower earthing is made by
connecting the four members of the tower to the earth loop by 4 protective conductors (for each of
the members a one 50 mm2 bare copper conductor fixed to it by a clamp).

3.1.3. Measurement and control point

In order to allow the measurement of earth resistance, an ARCUS ball is placed by the foundation
team on the member corresponding to the foot number 1 on the hole available at the theoretical
point T or T1.

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The conformity check shall be carried out by the approved body as soon as the foundations are
completed.

3.2. Concrete posts

The earthing shall have at least one earth loop and four earth rods.

3.2.1. General case

3.2.1.1. PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR

To connect the metal brackets to the earth rods, a bare copper conductor of 120 mm2 cross-section
is placed on the outside of the tower.

The metal brackets are connected to the protective conductor by jumpers of the same cross-section.

The conductor is protected by a PE pipe over a length of at least 3 m (free height above the ground
or concrete) in order to remain in the inaccessibility gauge which makes it possible not to convert
the concrete support into “metal support”. The pipe and protective conductor are secured to the
post/pole along their entire length using stainless steel strapping.

Plugged foundation - see attached (Plan 6) and (Plan 7)

The tube extends throughout the height of the concrete foundation and has its lower end so
designed that in case of accidental penetration the water can escape. This avoids any risk of
potential interaction between the conductor and the concrete (corrosion, heating, freezing).

To prevent the ingress of trickling water into the tube, its upper end is closed by an ad hoc
compound (silicone or better, polyurethane). A thermo-retractable sleeve then completes the
sealing.

Post/pole placed on a concrete footing/base - see attached (Plan 8) and (Plan 9)

The PE pipe is curved outward to join the ground loop (unlike in the case of the plugged foundation
in which the water can escape from the base).

Prefabricated foundation on site - see (Plan 10) and (Plan 11) in annex
This type of foundation - a single slab on which four concrete shells rest - forms a tank surrounding
the foot of the pole and separating it from the earth loop and the earth rods.

In this case, a rectangular opening of about 15 cm side is provided in the upper part of the concrete
shell. A corrugated (bellow) tube fitting on the PE tube fixed to the pole allows the earth conductor
to pass from the inside to the outside of the foundation.

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3.2.1.2. EARTH ELECTRODES

The earth electrode consists of four metal rods 2 m long, driven obliquely into the bottom of the
excavation and completed with an earth loop of the same cross section as the protective conductor
(120 mm2 Cu) located at least at 1 m depth.

If it is impossible to put the rods obliquely (too hard terrain), it is tolerated to place them
horizontally (at least at 1 m depth).

The connection to the protective conductor is done by 2 “C connectors” or “Crimpit” on the loop or
by two-wire clamp on a rod.

3.2.1.3. MEASUREMENT AND CONTROL POINT

After the closure of the excavation, the manager must be able to verify the correct execution of the
earthing. For this purpose, an Arcus-type ball is bolted to the protective conductor at some cm
above the top part of the PE protective tube.

It is held in position by means of two strapping bands placed on the protective conductor on either
side of the ball.

In case of impossibility the ball can be fixed by another means (e.g. bolting on small profile in
stainless steel covering the cable on some tens of cm).

3.2.2. Double Post

In the case where, for mechanical reasons, the support is made up of two concrete posts placed side
by side, only one earthing (thus a single protective conductor of 120 mm2 Cu) shall be made on one
of the two posts.

3.2.3. Gantry

In the case of concrete gantries, only one of the two posts should be provided with earthing, the
other post being considered merely as a simple mechanical support for the steel girder.

3.3. Tubular Steel Tower

The foundations of steel tubular towers are made by means of a squirrel cage (hamster wheel),
either on a micropile (Plan 12 - a, b, c, d) or on a sole plate (Plan 13 - a, b, c). d). In any case, it shall
be possible to check the earth resistance.
The ground electrode is made using a 50 mm2 bare copper ground loop, placed at the bottom of the
excavation at least 1 m deep and completed by 4 rods of at least 1.5 m long with an angle not
exceeding 45° from the vertical.

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If it is impossible to place the rods obliquely (too hard terrain), they can be placed horizontally (at
least 1 m deep).

The rods are preferably 2 meter Copperweld rods (or equivalent), but may also be galvanized steel
profiles that are more resistant to sinking in hard soils.

If the earth loop is less than 16 m long, the length of the rods (Copperweld rods) is doubled. In case
of impossibility (too hard soil), we double the number of rods (galvanized steel rods), making sure to
distribute them evenly on the perimeter of the excavation.

The two ends of the loop constitute the protective conductors which ensure the earthing of the
tower. These conductors go up the foundation up to about one meter below ground level. They are
then curved to join the tower base through the concrete base/footing. This crossing is protected by a
PE or PVC tube sealed at its upper end with an ad hoc compound (silicone or better, polyurethane)
to prevent the ingress of dripping water.

The protective conductors are preferably fastened directly to one of the reinforcement gussets
(stiffeners) when they exist (see plans c and d). An Arcus ball for control is also fastened to the
gusset above the holes for conductor fastening. In the absence of a gusset, conductors are extended
to a U-shaped metal flange welded to the pole about 20 cm above the base plate of the tower. This
flange is designed to accommodate both fixing clamps as well as the Arcus ball (see plans a and b).

As a precautionary measure, in the event of a laying error, a second flange is placed in a

diametrically opposite position on the pole shaft. Similarly, in the presence of reinforcing gussets,
provision will be made for the drilling of three holes on the gusset diametrically opposite to that
provided initially.

3.4. Passage of a fluid line

It may happen that a tower is constructed in a location where there is (or will be) a fluid line or that
a pipe manager wishes to pass such a pipe between the feet of a tower.

In such circumstances, it is possible to modify the pattern/diagram of the earth loop and to provide
two loops instead of one, each surrounding two feet of the tower (see example on the (Plan 15) in
annex 2).

However, the passage of a fluid line between the feet of a tower can only be done with the
agreement of the Client who will be responsible for checking that the earthwork and potential
transfer stresses are respected.

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3.5. Connection of the end towers to the substation earth

The interconnection of the earth network of the towers closest to the end gantries will be carried
out by the contractor performing the works of “lines”. This interconnection consists of a
underground double copper bond/link with a cross-section of at least 2 * 120 mm2 Cu. The two
underground links are 10 to 20 meters apart. As mentioned above in the document, the Contractor
of Lines takes the necessary measures to avoid any damage to these earthing by corrosion.

In order to guarantee the holding of the earth (shield) cables withstanding telecommunication
circuits (OPGW, ...) to the short-circuit currents, the latter are reinforced between the last tower and
the station. This reinforcement is carried out according to one of the following methods depending
on the configuration of the telecommunication cable:

1) Passage of the underground telecommunication cable between the last tower (post) and the
substation:

Addition between tower (pole) and gantry of an ordinary earth (shield) cable, (in addition to the
interconnection of the tower (pole) ground loop with the substation's earthing network).

2) Overhead lowering of the telecommunication cable towards the station4:

Addition of an ordinary earthing (shield) cable between the tower (post) and the substation if the
short-circuit power of the substation exceeds 10 GVA.

These various connection diagrams are illustrated in annex 2.