OVERHEAD DESIGN

MANUAL

Approved by: K.Nuttall

© ENERGEX 2007 BMS 01613 VERSION: 2.0 LAST UPDATE: 15/01/2007

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 UNCONTROLLED COPY Determine Design Inputs/Parameters

Select Route

Select Conductor Type

Select Structure and Pole-top Construction

Select Stringing Tension and Basic Span Length

OVERVIEW OF DISTRIBUTION LINE DESIGN PROCESS Nominate Pole Positions

Nominate Pole Heights and Circuit Heights at Supports

In general, design of an overhead line follows the steps shown opposite (with
variations as necessary to suit the design).
Draw Ground Line Profile

It should be noted that the process is iterative, ie the designer may make
some initial assumptions, eg as to pole height and size, which may later need Draw Circuit Profile
to be amended as the design is checked and gradually refined. Various
options will be tried until a final optimum arrangement is formulated. Check Vertical Clearances

Check for Uplift

Check Horizontal Clearances

Check Structure Capacity Matches Mechanical Forces

Nominate Fittings and Other Requirements

NO
Design Satisfactory?

YES

Document Design

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
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1. DETERMINE DESIGN INPUTS/PARAMETERS 3. SELECT CONDUCTOR

Assemble all relevant requirements, constraints and background information, Conductor selection should be carried out in accordance with ‘Cable
such as: Selection Guidelines’, planning requirements and any other applicable
ENERGEX standards. Factors to be considered include:
• customer requirements
• planning requirements • voltage
• existing and proposed schematics • whether the line is a main ‘trunk’ or a ‘spur’
• future development • load (present and future) – current-carrying capacity, voltage drop, losses
• statutory authority (eg local authority, main roads, railways, waterways, • fault levels and protection
environmental) requirements regarding alignments, types of construction • local conditions – pollution, fires, vegetation
and clearances • line design temperature
• coordination with other services • stringing tension
• integration with lighting design
• survey/site information
• maps 4. SELECT STRINGING TENSION AND BASIC SPAN LENGTH

This information should be placed on file or documented in an appropriate

In general, the number of poles should be kept to a minimum. When span
manner.
lengths are long, greater conductor stringing tensions must be used so that
adequate ground clearance is maintained, or additional pole height is
required.
2. SELECT ROUTE However, if the spans are too long, mechanical forces on the structures will
be excessive, and there may be inadequate spacing between phase
When selecting the route of the overhead line, factors to be considered conductors. Gaining the balance between these two requirements is the art
include: of optimal line design, as illustrated below

• cost – generally the shorter the route the cheaper it will be 2:1 Rule:
• access to line and poles
• servicing lots/properties, present and future The longest span within a strain section should not be more than double
• disruption to environment, vegetation or other services the length of the shortest span.
• community acceptance
The above rule may not be applied where:
• obtaining approvals
• conductors are strung at T440 or slacker, or
• requirement for easements – lines on public lands are preferred
• suspension structures of 11SU, 11SUA or 11SUAH are used.
• ease of excavation for pole foundations
DATE APP’D D Lloyd
A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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Stringing Table Typical Basic Span Length
T42 250m
T65 200m
T110 150m
T220 100m
T440 80m
T660 50m
T880 40m

The span lengths and tensions used will need to suit the pole-top
constructions used – refer ‘PoleTop Constructions’ Layout Guides.

Also, as a general rule, subcircuits should not be strung tighter than

supercircuits.

5. SELECT STRUCTURE AND POLE-TOP CONSTRUCTION

Lines in rural locations tend to use longer spans, typically over 100m.
Refer to ‘Pole Selection Guidelines’ and ‘PoleTop Construction, Selection
However, in urban areas, shorter spans tend to be used due to: Guidelines’.

• the requirement to service smaller lots – poles need to be positioned at Factors to be considered include:
points from which services will emanate
• the requirement to support public lighting • voltage(s)
• the need to keep structures compact and less visually obtrusive • number of circuits
• the need to keep stays on poles to a minimum • requirement for an overhead earth wire
• use of larger conductor sizes to supply higher load density • subcircuits such as pilot cable or BBCC
• increased number of circuits, including communications cables • vegetation and other local conditions
• magnitude of mechanical loads – depends on span lengths and stringing
As a general guide, the table below shows basic span lengths for various tensions
standard stringing tables. • required spanning capability

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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Avoid locations where:
6. NOMINATE POLE POSITIONS • access is difficult (eg steep embankments, heavily-vegetated areas)
• pole foundations will be poor (eg swampy ground, open drains, irrigation
In urban areas, poles are generally positioned on the roadway in line with or flood-prone areas, loose sand)
alternate lot boundaries in order to service each property without service lines • excavation is difficult (eg rocky ridges, bedrock or shale close to surface,
crossing adjacent properties. numerous or sensitive underground services).

For a line over undulating ground, avoid placing poles at the bottom of a dip,
as uplift will likely occur. Poles are best placed on the shoulders either side
of a gully.

Whenever pole positions are altered, you will need to recalculate MES.
Positioning poles near gates, driveways, large trees or in a way that
obstructs views from houses should be avoided.

It is often preferable to position the poles on the side of the road with the 7. NOMINATE POLE HEIGHTS AND CIRCUIT HEIGHTS AT
greatest number of lots so as to keep the number of cross-road services to a SUPPORTS
minimum.

Public lighting requirements may also influence pole positions.
In general, straight lines are preferable to lines with numerous deviation
angles, both aesthetically and due to minimising forces on structures.
Avoid switching sides of the road more often than is necessary, as phase
transpositions on LV lines will be required (if there are two or more
successive poles on the opposite side).
Span lengths should be similar within a strain section. Remember the 2:1
rule that, the longest span within a strain section should not be more than
double the length of the shortest span. All span lengths should be
compatible with the stringing tension and pole-top constructions employed
(refer ‘PoleTop Constructions’ and ‘Stringing Tables’).
For general guidelines on pole sizing, refer ‘Poles’; concrete and woodpole
data.
The heights nominated for poles will depend upon factors such as:
• the number of circuits supported
• the area traversed – clearances vary for road crossings, footpaths, non-
trafficable areas etc
• mounting heights of public lighting, pole-mounted plant or other
attachments.
For standard king bolt spacing refer ‘Clearances’ - Drawing Number 6974-
A4and ‘Poletop Constructions’. Increased spacings may be required for long
spans, as determined by profiling of the line.

Poles should not be located where they are likely to impede the vision of For clearances of BBCC from other equipment, refer ‘Clearances’ - Drawing
motorists or where they are likely to be struck by errant vehicles, eg on a Number 6980-A4
sharp corner, or the outside radius of a curve. The following table shows conductor heights relative to the kingbolts of the
various poletop constructions. This is important in determining the heights of
Adequate space should be available for stays fitted to poles. conductors at their support points for profiling purposes.
DATE APP’D D Lloyd
A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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Approx. Height of Conductor
Poletop Construction
relative to King Bolt (m)
All 33kV Shackles and Terminations 0
(For 33TT, 33TS, centre phase is +0.75m.
For 33VDSU, outer phases are 0.55m above lower
phase.
For 33VDSR, outer phases are 0.85m above lower
phase.
For 33SS, 33SA, centre phase is –0.2m. )
Approx. Height of Conductor 33P, 33PO +0.4
Poletop Construction
relative to King Bolt (m)
All LV Shackles and Terminations 0 33TP
(For LVABC/XS, deduct an extra 0.1m on low side.) – centre +1.4
LVP, LVCP +0.18 – outer +0.4
LVA, LVCA +0.1 33SU
LVU, LVPTU, LVSUA -0.18 – normal insulators -0.65
LVV, LVVA, LVVT, LVVS – N 0 – fog or synthetic insulators -0.9
– ‘C’ph -1.35 33SUA, 33SUAH
(For LVVS, deduct an extra 0.1m on low side.) – normal insulators -0.75
LVABC/SU3 or SU4, -0.1 – fog or synthetic insulators -1.0
LVABC/PTS, LVABC/PTSU 33VDU – top +0.9
LVABC/SA -0.2 – bottom 0
LVABC/A -0.3 (relative to top gainbase bolt of bottom phase)
All 11kV Shackles and Terminations 0 33VDR – top +1.2
(For 11TDT, 11TDS, centre phase is +0.4m. – bottom 0
For 11TDT, 11TDS, 11TDTL, 11TDSL, outer phases (relative to top gainbase bolt of bottom phase)
are –0.1m.
For 11TT, 11TS, centre phase is +1.6m ) 33VOU – top +1.8
11TD, 11TDA, 11TDCA – top +0.6 – bottom 0
(relative to top gainbase bolt of bottom phase)
– bottom 0
33VOR – top +2.4
11P, 11PF 0.2
– bottom 0
11A +0.15 (relative to top gainbase bolt of bottom phase)
11SU, 11SUA 33VA - top +1.8
– normal insulators -0.4 – bottom -0.3
– fog or synthetic insulators -0.65 When rolling to flat construction:
11SUAH bottom conductor – top +2.4
– normal insulators -0.6 – bottom -0.3
– fog or synthetic insulators -0.85 (relative to bottom phase)
(top conductor as per 11SUA) 33W, 33WA
normal insulators:
– top +0.45
– bottom -1.2
fog or synthetic insulators:
– top +0.15
– bottom -1.5
DATE APP’D D Lloyd
A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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8. DRAW GROUND LINE PROFILE where:

Line profiling is often necessary for lines traversing uneven ground. Where
ground is flat or evenly sloping, profiling may not be necessary. The designer
may be able to check ground clearances by simply deducting the sag in the
longest span from the average height of the supports at either end.
Other reasons for line profiling include:
• checking clearances from structures such as ‘skip’ poles or street lights
• checking ground clearances where the heights of the two supports for a
conductor span differ markedly
• determining inter-circuit clearances on long multi-circuit spans (king bolt
spacings may need to be adjusted)
• checking for uplift forces on structures.
• determining vegetation clearing requirements.
The ground line profile is plotted from survey data for the line route, typically
using the following scales:
Horizontal: 1:1000 (1mm = 1m)
Vertical: 1:200 (5mm = 1m)
The survey data may consist of distance and slope measurements for various
segments of ground, between which the ground is assumed to slope evenly.
These should be converted to distance (chainage) and RL (reduced level)
measurements, to facilitate plotting. The following trigonometric formulae may
be used here:
xs is the chainage (horizontal distance) at the segment start
xf is the chainage (horizontal distance) at the segment finish
ys is the RL (vertical height) at the segment start
yf is the RL (vertical height) at the segment finish
d is the measured distance or length of the segment
θ is the slope
(xf, yf)
d
y
(xs, θ
) x
On the ground line plot, features such as buildings, fences, gullies, pole
‘no-go’ areas, roads, large trees, obstacles and waterways should be
shown.
An offset line is then drawn above and parallel to the ground line,
according to the minimum vertical clearances that apply. For example,
for a HV line crossing a carriageway, the GL offset line would be drawn at
a height of 6.7m (appropriately scaled) above the ground line. Along the
footpath it would be drawn at 5.5m. The GL Offset allows the designer to
check that conductors do not sag below the minimum vertical clearance.
(An alternative approach is to reduce pole heights by the required vertical
ground clearance.)

xf = xs + d cos θ,
which approximately equals d for slopes < 10°
yf = ys + d sin θ
(+ some arbitrary value, eg 100, if reqd. to keep +ve)

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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Cold / Uplift Condition Standard 5°°C

9. DRAW CIRCUIT PROFILE Cold

Western Areas 0°°C

The conductor profile may be drawn manually by using a boomerang-shaped
template, or by plotting points on the catenary curve.

Hot Condition Standard Open Wire & LVABC 75°°C

9.1 Supports HVABC (Catenary) 50°°C
Communications Cables 35°°C
(Pilot, BBCC etc)
Hot
Poles are drawn to scale on the profile, with marks placed at the support Older HV Lines 55°°C
points for each circuit. (Refer Planning Group. Generally
these are older lines designed prior
to 1980, many of which have not
The conductor profile is drawn for each circuit, linking the two support points. been updated to 75°C.)
Category B New Lines 110°°C
Feeders Older Lines 90°°C
9.2 Conductor Temperatures for Profiling Cool Subcircuit Standard 15°°C
(below Hot Supercircuit)

Conductor sag depends upon conductor temperature. Various Hot

temperatures are used for different purposes, as tabulated below.
Cool
For a standard new open-wire line, we would draw profiles at:
Below Category B Lines 50°°C
• 75°C - to check clearances from ground and fixed objects
• 5°C - to check for uplift (if this was likely to occur).

For a standard new HV+LV open-wire line, for the top HV circuit we
would draw profiles at:
• 75°C - to check clearances from subcircuit
• 5°C - to check for uplift (if this was likely to occur).
For the lower LV circuit we would draw profiles at:
• 75°C - to check clearances from ground and fixed objects
• 15°C - to check for clearance from the supercircuit.
For a HV feeder with an overhead earth wire, intercircuit spacing should be
checked with both circuits at 35°C.
For new Category ‘B’ HV feeders, ground clearances are checked at 110°C.
Intercircuit spacing are checked with the supercircuit at 110°C and the
subcircuit at 50°C. (This is generally similar to the spacing required between
circuits at 75°C and 15°C respectively.) The planning group may provide
advice as to which HV feeders (mostly 33kV) are classified as Category ‘B’.
Alternatively, information may be obtained from the Equipment Rating
(ERAT) Database custodian.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
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 9.3 Drawing a Circuit Profile Using a Sag TemplateUNCONTROLLED COPY
A typical sag template is illustrated below. It is made from a transparent
material and is designed to overlay the ground line profile already drawn.
The template is positioned to link the two support points for the circuit.

Be sure that you have selected the correct template, one that:
• applies to the type of conductor being profiled – different templates
should be used for AAC, Copper, LVABC etc.
The top edge is used for drawing a cold (or cool) condition curve and the • has the correct stringing table
bottom edge for the hot condition.
• has the correct MES range for the line – ie the strain section MES
should not be significantly below or above the template MES
• has scales that match the ground profile
The template is asymmetrical to allow for undulating terrain or dissimilar
heights at the ends of the span. Being transparent, it is reversible and • has the correct hot and cold/cool temperatures.
may be oriented with the high side to either the left or the right.
For constructions in which the phase conductors are at different heights,
The template has horizontal and vertical scales that must match those eg vertical delta, vertical or wishbone, it may be necessary to profile both
used to draw the ground profile. The datum lines or scales on the upper and lower phases within the circuit.
template must be aligned with the grid of the graph paper, ie tilting the
template will produce error. Templates may be constructed using the procedure used for plotting a
circuit profile, as described in the next sub-section. The plot may be
The vertical datum or scale must lie between the two support points. If this is not photocopied onto an acetate sheet, which is then cut to produce a
the case, then an uplift condition may exist. template. Be sure to mark/label the template with:
• type/class of conductor, eg AAC
• stringing table, eg T220
• datum lines
• scales, eg 1:1000 hor. & 1:200 vert.
• curve temperatures eg 5°C and 75°C
• MES used for calculation
• project name, if applicable.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
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GL Offset
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
9.4 Plotting a Circuit Profile
10. CHECK VERTICAL CLEARANCES
The profile of an overhead conductor span is the shape of a catenary.
For practical purposes on distribution lines, this shape may be The profile is checked (refer ‘Clearances’ ), to ensure that:
approximated by a parabola. (For sags less than 9% of span length, the • the circuit profile does not cross below the GL Offset line
difference between the catenary and the parabola is less than 1%.) • that adequate clearances are maintained between supercircuits and
sub-circuits
The relationship between span and sag is illustrated below. • all vertical clearances are maintained from structures and other
services.

Where ground clearances are inadequate, the designer may need to

consider:
• increasing pole height, or
• reducing span lengths, or
• increasing stringing tension.

Where intercircuit clearances are inadequate, the designer may need to:
• increase king bolt spacing, or
• alter type of construction, or
• reduce span lengths, or
• increase tension in top circuit, or
• decrease tension in bottom circuit.
Where the difference between support point heights is not too great, the
circuit profile may be plotted directly onto the ground profile using this
technique. However, where significant height difference exists between
the ends of the span, a template should be constructed and used as
described in subsection 9.3.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
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11. CHECK FOR UPLIFT

An upward force may be exerted on a structure under cold conditions when

mains are tight. While this may be tolerable for a strain (shackle)
construction, it is unacceptable for pin, angle or suspension constructions.

The check for uplift is made by ensuring that the low point of the 5°C circuit
profile is always between the support structures, as illustrated below.
Uplift problems can also be avoided by:
• selection of suitable pole positions
• selective use of increased height poles
• use of moderate stringing tensions
• shackling the mains where uplift is unavoidable.

12. CHECK HORIZONTAL CLEARANCES

A check should be made to ensure that there are adequate horizontal

clearances between the line and buildings, streetlight columns,
embankments, etc, (refer ‘Clearances’).

Also, the designer should ensure that the easement or footpath has sufficient
width to avoid the line entering private property under wind conditions.

Blowout is essentially horizontal sag in a conductor due to wind forces. It is

It is possible to avoid uplift on successive steeply-inclined spans whilst still
having the low points outside the spans. However, if the low points are
within their respective spans, uplift will never occur.
sometimes greater than sag in a span, since wind forces on the conductor
may be greater than gravitational force. Values of blowout for different
conductors under various stringing tensions are tabulated in section 5.
The blowout at any point along a span may be calculated using the values for
a parabola given in subsection 9.4 above.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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14. NOMINATE FITTINGS AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
A plan view of the circuit may be drawn. At the midpoint of each span, a line
equal to the blowout for the span is drawn at right angles to the centreline. A The designer needs to nominate appropriate:
parabola may be then be plotted for the span, as illustrated below. • shackle locations
• bridging (refer ‘Poletop Constructions’)
• clamps and connectors (sized to suit conductor and bridging wire sizes,
correct metal to avoid corrosion between dissimilar metals) – Refer
Max. Blowout Overhead Construction Manual Section 8
• sleeves, splices, helical terminations as applicable – Refer Overhead
Construction Manual Section 8
Where horizontal clearances are inadequate, the designer may need to consider: • insulator types (refer ‘Poletop Constructions’)
• increasing stringing tension, or • anti-vibration and vibration protection measures (refer ‘Poletop
• altering type of construction, eg vertical instead of flat, or Constructions’)
• using insulated conductors • lightning protection, as applicable
• reducing span lenth • earthing (refer ‘Earthing’)
• relocating poles. • vegetation clearing requirements (refer SWP 1.6 and Overhead
Construction Manual Section 8

13. CHECK STRUCTURE CAPACITY MATCHES MECHANICAL Strain points, or shackles are placed in a line at typically every 5th to 10th pole.
LOADS Factors influencing the placement of shackles include:
• creating manageable sections of line for construction or repair crews –
The mechanical forces on each pole should be checked and compared with strain sections should not be longer than can be erected and tensioned
pole strengths (refer ‘Poles’ and ‘Mechanical Loads’). Special attention should by an average crew in a day.
be paid to deviation angle and termination poles. For in-line intermediate • length of cable on drum
poles, it is normally only necessary to check the pole with the greatest wind
• keeping all spans within the strain section of similar length
span.
• isolating critical spans, eg across a highway, railway, or creek, or spans
that are prone to damage, from the rest of the line
Where the mechanical load exceeds pole strength the designer should
consider: • providing points for electrical isolation (by breaking bridges, or where
temporary ABSs may be installed by live line crews)
• increasing pole strength rating, or
• accommodating large deviation angles
• backstaying the pole, or
• avoiding uplift.
• reducing stringing tension, or
• using a concrete pole.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
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15. MODIFY DESIGN AS REQUIRED
16. DOCUMENT DESIGN
Frequently it will be necessary to modify the design as it progresses so as to:
• meet engineering requirements such as clearances, structural soundness This final stage involves documenting the design as a works plan, complete
etc with schedules.
• to optimise the design, keeping costs to a minimum.
The conductor schedule should make due allowance for inelastic stretch
Keeping the number of structures to a minimum is important in minimising when nominating construction sags.
costs.
The design should be thoroughly checked using a checklist.
When optimising the design, ‘whole-of-life’ costs should be considered, taking
into account: All relevant documentation must be placed on the design file for the project.
• initial cost of materials
• initial cost of construction At this stage there will be numerous other tasks to complete, such as:
• the expected life of the components • obtaining approvals from stakeholders and relevant authorities
• operational costs • establishing easements
• maintenance costs • preparation of resource estimates
• reliability • ordering materials.

Consult planning staff for assistance to assess any design options equitably.

The design should be practical to construct and maintain. It should make

adequate provision for future development (eg fitting of street lights, servicing,
addition or uprating of circuit). However, designers should not make
excessive provision for developments that are uncertain, many years in the
future, or may be paid for at a future time by some other party.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
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GUIDELINES
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 MEASURING SAG ON AN EXISTING CIRCUIT
UNCONTROLLED COPY
Wave / Swing Sagging

Height Stick Measurement When to Use

1. Measure conductor height at each end of the span. • When other more precise methods such as height stick measurement cannot
2. Measure conductor height at mid-point of span (not necessarily the point be used
where the mains are closest to the ground). Do not pull down on the • Unsuitable for spans where sag is very small
conductor being measured. • Subject to Risk Assessment
3. If the ground is not level or evenly sloping, then take a sight line • Where mid-span conductor joins or trees against conductors will not interfere
correction to compensate for any mid-span dip or hump, as described in with conductor motion
steps 4 – 6.
4. Place a mark on each pole at eye level, say 1.65m.
5. From one end, sight from one eye line to the other. Potential Hazards
6. Have an assistant stand at the midpoint of the span holding the height
stick. Signal to the assistant as to the position of the sight line, and
• Falling conductors or fittings
record the height.
• Clashing/arcing between conductors
7. The sag in the span is given by the formula:
• Damage to Height Stick
Sag = (h1 + h2) / 2 – h3 + ( h4 – 1.65 )
Control Measures

• Carefully inspect crossarms and fittings first

SAG • PPE – Hard Hat and Eye Protection
h2 • Initial pluck should be towards adjacent conductor, cautiously, ensuring that
force/deflection is minimal and will not cause clashing.
• Take care not to overstress height stick or buttons
h3
h1
1.65 m Principle of Operation
h4
1.65 m Swing Sagging uses pendulum principle.

SAG = (h1 + h2)/2 - h3 + (h4 - 1.65)

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 13 OF 14
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7049a4 7049-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY Time For 3
Wave Returns
Sag
(m)
Time For 3
Wave Returns
Sag
(m)
Time For 3
Wave Returns
Sag
(m)
Time For 3
Wave Returns
Sag
(m)
(Secs) (Secs) (Secs) (Secs)
Wave Sagging uses principle of traveling wave propagation, like waves in a 3.0 0.31 7.0 1.67 11.0 4.12 15.0 7.66
swimming pool that hit an edge and are reflected back. 3.1 0.33 7.1 1.72 11.1 4.20 15.2 7.87
3.2 0.35 7.2 1.77 11.2 4.27 15.4 8.08
3.3 0.37 7.3 1.82 11.3 4.35 15.6 8.29
3.4 0.39 7.4 1.87 11.4 4.43 15.8 8.50
3.5 0.42 7.5 1.92 11.5 4.50 16.0 8.72
3.6 0.44 7.6 1.97 11.6 4.58 16.2 8.94
3.7 0.47 7.7 2.02 11.7 4.66 16.4 9.16
Method 3.8 0.49 7.8 2.07 11.8 4.74 16.8 9.61
3.9 0.52 7.9 2.13 11.9 4.82 17.0 9.84
4.0 0.54 8.0 2.18 12.0 4.90 17.2 10.08
1. Determine suitability for Wave or Swing Sagging, incl. Risk Assessment. 4.1 0.57 8.1 2.23 12.1 4.99 17.4 10.31
4.2 0.60 8.2 2.29 12.2 5.07 17.6 10.55
2. A. Swing Sagging 4.3 0.63 8.3 2.35 12.3 5.15 17.8 10.79
4.4 0.66 8.4 2.40 12.4 5.24 18.0 11.04
Near the middle of the span, cautiously pull outside conductor 4.5 0.69 8.5 2.46 12.5 5.32 18.2 11.28
approx. 100mm toward the neighbouring conductor, then release 4.6 0.72 8.6 2.52 12.6 5.41 18.4 11.53
suddenly. 4.7 0.75 8.7 2.58 12.7 5.49 18.6 11.78
4.8 0.78 8.8 2.64 12.8 5.58 18.8 12.04
4.9 0.82 8.9 2.70 12.9 5.67 19.0 12.30
B. Wave Sagging
5.0 0.85 9.0 2.76 13.0 5.76 19.2 12.56
Close to one end of span, cautiously pull outside conductor 5.1 0.89 9.1 2.82 13.1 5.85 19.4 12.82
approx. 100mm toward the neighbouring conductor, then release 5.2 0.92 9.2 2.88 13.2 5.93 19.6 13.08
suddenly. Alternatively extend tip of height stick about 1 metre 5.3 0.96 9.3 2.95 13.3 6.02 19.8 13.35
above outside conductor, then strike conductor sharply. 5.4 0.99 9.4 3.01 13.4 6.12 20.0 13.62
5.5 1.03 9.5 3.07 13.5 6.21 20.5 14.31
5.6 1.07 9.6 3.14 13.6 6.30 21.0 15.02
3. After the first travelling wave return or full swing away and back, second 5.7 1.11 9.7 3.20 13.7 6.39 21.5 15.74
person activates stop watch. (The first cycle is ignored.) 5.8 1.15 9.8 3.27 13.8 6.49 22.0 16.49
5.9 1.19 9.9 3.34 13.9 6.58 22.5 17.24
6.0 1.23 10.0 3.41 14.0 6.68 23.0 18.02
4. After another 3 wave returns or full swings, stop watch and record time in 6.1 1.27 10.1 3.47 14.1 6.77 23.5 18.81
seconds. Note: Timing accuracy is crucial. 6.2 1.31 10.2 3.54 14.2 6.87 24.0 19.62
6.3 1.35 10.3 3.61 14.3 6.96 24.5 20.44
5. Ensure that waves/swings are distinct ‘single mode’ resonances. If not, 6.4 1.40 10.4 3.68 14.4 7.06 25.0 21.29
disregard measurement, wait for conductor to settle and repeat.. 6.5 1.44 10.5 3.76 14.5 7.16 25.5 22.15
6.6 1.48 10.6 3.83 14.6 7.26 26.0 23.02
6.7 1.53 10.7 3.90 14.7 7.36 26.5 23.92
6. Repeat process once or twice if necessary to ensure that timing readings 6.8 1.57 10.8 3.97 14.8 7.46 27.0 24.83
are all similar, then average. 6.9 1.62 10.9 4.05 14.9 7.56 27.5 25.76
28.0 26.70
28.5 27.67
7. For sag measured in metres and time in seconds: 29.0 28.64
Sag = (t3 / 5.42)2 29.5 29.64
Where t3 is the time for 3 full swings or wave returns 30.0 30.65

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
APP’D DATE 28/05/02
GUIDELINES
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 14 OF 14
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7049a4 7049-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
DESIGN EXAMPLE
DESIGN INFORMATION

A new development at 107 Irvine Rd is to be supplied by a 500kV.A The route of the new line has been profiled using a clinometer and trundle
padmounted transformer on the consumer’s property, as shown below. wheel, with distances and slopes measured shown below.

The new transformer is to be fed via an overhead extension emanating from
Pole 9973 in Pearl Rd. The project planners have specified that MOON
(7/4.75 AAC) be used for the 11kV extension. A 95mm2 LVABC tie is also to
be established between the external network and the new transformer.
Irvine Rd slopes downward from west to east, with a bridge across a small
non-navigable creek.
The heights of the existing pin crossarms on P9973 are 10.1m (11kV) and
8.3m (LV). The mains heights mid-span, either side of P9973, are 9.3m
(11kV) and 7.2m (LV).
The pole alignment in the footpath specified by the local authority is 3.65m
from the real property boundary. The soil is hard clay, except in the swampy
region in the immediate vicinity of the creek.

Design the new section of overhead line.

P6721

3-7/12(11)
4-mo(L) PROPOSED
Pearl
Rd NEW LOAD
#103 #105 Dowling #107
50m

P9973
N
Irvine Rd

50m Creek

P9974

P9973
New Pole
50m 0° UG Cable
40m -3° Termination
18m -1° 21m -3°
11m 0° 14m +3°
DATE APP’D D Lloyd
A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 LINE PROFILING
Example
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR K Gosden SHEET 1 OF 6
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 UNCONTROLLED COPY
DESIGN SOLUTION
The total route length is 155m. This is too far to cover with a single span,
since LVABC has a practical spanning limit of 100m (refer ‘Poletop
Constructions’ 6956-A4). Consequently, we will aim to use two spans to
cover the distance. This will also ensure that conductor tensions are
moderate, say Table T220 for the 11kV and Table T440 for the LV.
Therefore we need to select a position for the intermediate pole. The two
possible locations are:
• in line with the western (upper) lot boundaries of Lot 105, or
• in line with the eastern (lower) lot boundary of Lot 105.
The top location seems best since:
• it is generally good practice to place poles on ridge shoulders and use
a longer span over a gully
• the level of attachment of the LVABC on existing pole P9973 will be
low, so we will need the shorter span on the western side.

Thus, our new extension will appear as shown below in plan view.
P6721

3-7/12(L)
4-mo(11) PROPOSED
Pearl
Rd NEW LOAD
#103 #105 Dowling
50m #107
2 3

P9973 N
90m
65m Irvine Rd
1

50m Creek

P9974
New
Intermediate
P9973 Pole New Pole
50m 0° UG Cable
40m -3° Termination
18m -1° 21m -3°
11m 0° 14m +3°

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
WORKED EXAMPLE
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR K Gosden SHEET 2 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7050a4 7050-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
At station 1, ie P9973, we will need to fit terminations for the new circuits,
viz 11TDTL and LVABC/T. In order to meet the required spacings between
circuits (refer ‘Clearances’ 6974-A4) the existing LV crossarm on P9973 will
require lowering. The spacings will change as shown below.
A ground line profile is now required. Using trigonometry, we convert the
measured distances and slope angles to chainage and level values, as
tabulated below.

Description Distance Slope X Y Chainage Level

Stn 1 P9973 0 0
51 0° 51 0 51 0
11P 10.10 40 -3° 40 -2.09 91 -2.09
11P 10.10 18 -1° 18 -0.31 109 -2.40
)0.65
11TDTL 9.45 21 -3° 21 -1.10 130 -3.50
8.30 Creek 11 0° 11 0 141 -3.50
LVP )2.2
1.05 Stn 3 14 +3° 25 + 0.73 155 -2.77

LVP 7.25
)0.3
LVABC/ 6.95 These may be used to plot a profile with a horizontal scale of 1:1000 and a
vertical scale of 1:200, as shown below.

We will draw a minimum ground clearance line parallel with the ground line.
For the most part, this line shall be 5.5m above the ground line. However,
near the creek where the ground is not trafficable we may reduce the
clearance to 4.5m.

EXISTING P9973 PROPOSED

The lowering of the LV crossarm by 1.05m does not present any problems
for the line in Pearl Rd. The mid-span height of the LV mains will be
reduced from 7.2m to (8.3- 1.05/2) = 6.675m. Note as the height is
modified 1.05m at one end, only ½ of 1.05m will be achieved mid-span.
The resulting mid-span height of 6.675m exceeds minimum height
requirement of 5.5m. (Refer ‘Clearances’ 6970-A4).
Note that In this example KingBolt spacings have been used for profiling
while in practice actual conductor heights shall be used (variations result
from type of construction used refer Overhead Construction Manual).

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
WORKED EXAMPLE
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR K Gosden SHEET 3 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7050a4 7050-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
We shall now add the poles to the profile. We already have measured We now need to nominate constructions and calculate the heights of circuit
heights for station 1. attachment points on the poles at stations 2 and 3.

Initially, we will select a 12.5/8 pole for station 2. The pole at station 3 will The mains may be run in a single strain section, since the two spans are not
need to be taller, and heavier since it is a termination pole with 11kV and greatly dissimilar in length (cf 2:1 guideline). The MES in the new strain
LV underground cables terminating on it, say 14/12. (Incidentally, we may section is calculated as follows:
need to revise these heights later if there is insufficient clearance.)
MES = √ ((903 + 653) / (90 + 65) = 80.5m
We now refer to ‘Poles’ 6940-A4 and select suitable pole foundations and
sinking depths. The soil is well-drained hard clay and provides a good (Refer ‘Stringing Tables’ 7010-A4)
foundation. Our selections are as follows:
By reference to ‘Clearances’ 6974-A4, we obtain the values tabulated below.
Stn 2 Sink 2.05m NAEF (natural earth fill foundation)
Stn 3 Sink 2.30m NAEF (natural earth fill foundation)
Station Construction KBS King Bolt Height Conductor Height
The heights of the poles out of ground shall be: 2 11TDA 0.15 10.30 10.30 (A, C ph)
Stn 2 10.45m LVABC/SU3 1.60 8.70 8.50
Stn 3 11.70m. 3 11TDTL 0.20 11.50 11.50
11 UG Term. 1.00 10.50
LVABC/T 2.00 8.50 8.50
LV UG Term. 0.15 8.35

We also verify that the distances and angles are within the capability of the
nominated constructions by reference to layout guides in ‘Poletop Constructions’
6956 - 6958-A4 (note that the line deviation angle at station 2 is 4°).

We will need to plot the circuits for the following conditions:

11kV 75°C Intercircuit clearance

LV 15°C Intercircuit clearance
LV 75°C Ground clearance

Uplift is not a concern in this instance and there is no need to plot profiles at
5°C.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
WORKED EXAMPLE
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR K Gosden SHEET 4 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7050a4 7050-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
To plot the circuits, we will either need to: We have two options here:
• obtain a suitable sag template, or • Increase pole height at station 2, or
• determine the sag in each span by reference to sag tables. • Increase stringing tension in the LVABC.

Assuming that we take the latter course, we are able to calculate sags as We will select the first option, since we wish to keep tensions to moderate
tabulated below (refer ‘Stringing Tables’ 7004-A4). levels. Let us increase the size of the intermediate pole to 14m.

Its new sinking depth will be 2.1m, giving a tip height of 11.9m. The circuit
Circuit Stringing Temperature Sag 1 – 2 Sag 2 – 3 attachment heights will increase to 11.75m (11kV) and 9.95m (LV). The
(65m span) (90m span) revised profile is shown below.
11kV T220 75°C 1.48m 2.84m
LV T440 15°C 1.86m 3.56m
LV T440 75°C 2.20m 4.22m

We are now able to draw our profile, as shown below.

The increase in pole height at station 2 has corrected the ground clearance
problem.

We also note that intercircuit clearances are satisfactory. (The intercircuit

clearances were unlikely to be a problem on such short spans, since we are
using standard king bolt spacings and a lower tension on the subcircuit than
the supercircuit.)
Notice that the 75°C catenary curve for the LVABC falls below the ground line
offset clearance line. Our design is therefore unsatisfactory.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
WORKED EXAMPLE
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR K Gosden SHEET 5 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7050a4 7050-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
We now check horizontal clearances and blowout. We need only consider Screw anchor will be (refer ‘Stays’ 6950 & 6951-A4):
the longer span. By reference to ‘Stringing Tables’ 7008-A4 we find blowout • Station 1 - single screw 200mm blade diameter, installed @ 140 bar
to be as follows: • Station 3 - ?.

11kV MOON T220 2.01m + 0.6m trident constr. width At Station 3 we have a problem.
LV ABC 95 T440 3.18m + 0.2m half pole width Use of the calculation formula from ‘Stays’ 6950-A4 gives:

We note that even with allowances for pole/construction width, the blowout is
satisfactory, ie less than the 3.65m that the pole is away from the real
property boundary, although there is not a lot of margin. In this case, the
design is acceptable, since there are no buildings or structures in proximity to
the middle of the 90m span.
We now check the tip loads on the poles, with results as shown below.
Max Tip Load = 16.6kN x 11.7 = 64kN
(Wind Condition) 3.05 x cos 5°
As this exceeds maximum stay wire tension of 56kN for 19/2.75 the most
practical option is to select a pole with a higher rated tip load.
Accordingly Station 3 is increased to a 15.5/20 (sunk 2.65m NAEF) with no
staying required (rated tip loads of 18.09kN - wind and 10kN – no wind).

Since we are able to interconnect to the external LV network, and we do

Station No Wind
1 7.9kN
2 0.6kN
3 8.3kN
Wind not anticipate any problems with earthing, we shall specify CMEN earthing
15.6kN for the cable termination. A common cable guard may be used for the HV
4.2kN and LV cables, affixed to the eastern side of the pole at station 3 opposite
16.6kN the direction of oncoming traffic. (The HV cable will twist around the pole
for the termination on the west side.)

We will also need to specify bridging between the existing line and the new
Clearly, we will need to install stays at stations 1 and 3, where the Wind
line at station 1. Referring to the Overhead Construction Manual page
condition load exceeds the capacity of the pole.
section 8, page 33 & 34, we specify the following bridging arrangements:

11kV: 3 x 15568 clamps

Since ground space is limited in each case (by the property boundary at station
LV: 4 x 14090 clamps
1 and a driveway at station 3), we will opt for sidewalk type stays.
Reference to ‘Stays’ 6950-A4, requires selection 19/2.75 steel wire (for both
Note in both cases the mains are extended to act as bridging cables.
stations 1 & 3), at an angle of 5° to the vertical. (Note that selection of 19/2.00 This is a preferred practice that minimises the number of joints (which is a
steel wire, at an angle of 20° to the vertical will not fit within the 3.65m pole good thing for increased network reliability).
alignment).

We are now ready to document the design as a works plan.

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 LINE DESIGN OVERVIEW
WORKED EXAMPLE
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR K Gosden SHEET 6 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7050a4 7050-A4 A
UNCONTROLLED COPY
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
A SECTION DRG No. I SECTION DRG No.

Air Break Switches Policy & Practice 7040-A4 Insulators PoleTop Constructions 6962, 6963-A4
(ABS)
K SECTION DRG No.
Aircraft / Aerial Policy & Practice 7041-A4
Markers Kingbolt Spacings Clearances 6974-A4

B SECTION DRG No. L SECTION DRG No.

Blowout Stringing Tables 7008-A4 Line Fault Indicators PoleTop Constructions 7106-A4

Bridging PoleTop Constructions 6965-A4

M SECTION DRG No.
C SECTION DRG No.
Main Roads Clearances 6984-A4
Conductor Stretch Stringing Tables 7010-A4
Maximum Working Poles 6940-A4
D SECTION DRG No. Tension (MWT)

DSA Schemes PoleTop Constructions 7107-A4 Mean Equivalent Span Stringing Tables 7010-A4
(MES)

E SECTION DRG No.

Environment Policy & Practice 7046-A4

Every Day Tension Poles 6940-A4

(EDT)

F SECTION DRG No.

Foundation Poles 6938, 6948-A4

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 INDEX
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 1 OF 2
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7053 7053-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
P SECTION DRG No. S SECTION DRG No.

Phasing PoleTop Construction 6966, 6967-A4 Sectionalising Policy & Practice 7040-A4

Pole Services Policy & Practice 7043 - 7045-A4

Alignment Poles 6945-A4
Inspection Poles 6945-A4 Signs
Foundation Poles 6938, 6948-A4 Boat Ramps Policy & Practice 7038-A4
Strength Poles 6948-A4 Poles Policy & Practice 7047-A4
Strength Rating Poles 6938, 6940-A4
Strength Groups Poles 6942, 6946-A4 Soil Type Poles 6940-A4
Tip Load Poles 6940, 6941, 6943-
A4
Spans & 2:1 Rule Line Design Overview 7049-A4 (p2)

Powerlink Clearances 6982-A4 T SECTION DRG No.

Protection Transpositions PoleTop Constructions 6967-A4

ABC Mains Policy & Practice 7042-A4
V SECTION DRG No.

Q SECTION DRG No. Vibration Protection PoleTop Constructions 6964-A4

Queensland Railways Clearances 6983-A4 W SECTION DRG No.

Queensland Transport Water Crossings Policy & Practice 7039-A4

Boat Ramps
Policy & Practice 7038-A4

DATE APP’D D Lloyd

A
APP’D DATE 28/05/02 INDEX
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 2 OF 2
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7053 7053-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS
AAAC All Aluminium Alloy Conductor ESAA Electricity Supply Association of NS Neutral Screened
Australia
AAC All Aluminium Conductor Ex Existing NTS Not To Scale
ABC Aerial Bundled Cable Exc Excavate, also Excavation Notice
ABS Air Break Switch Fdr Feeder OH Overhead
ACSR Aluminium Conductor Steel OPGW Optical Ground Wire
Reinforced
ADSS All Dielectric Self-Supporting GI Galvanised Iron
AHD Australian Height Datum GT Ground Transformer P/BRANCH Parallel Branch
AMG Australian Map Grid GZ Galvanised Steel PCPF Precast Concrete Pad Foundation
Al Aluminium PE Photoelectric
AS Australian Standard HAT Highest Astronomical Tide Ph Phase
HDPE High Density Polyethylene PLA Paper Lead Alloy
BIG Buried In Ground HV High Voltage (11 kV/22 kV/33 kV/66 PMR Pole Mounted Recloser
kV)
BPM Base Plate Mounted HVABC High Voltage Aerial Bundled Cable PMT, PM Padmounted Transformer
CAA Civil Aviation Authority Prop Proposed (also Property Pole)
CAD Computer Aided Drafting KBS King Bolt Spacing PSM Permanent Survey Mark
PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network
CB Circuit Breaker LTS Load Transfer Switch PT Pole-mounted Transformer
CBD Central Business District LV Low Voltage (240 V/415 V) PTS Pole Top Switch
CBL Calculated Breaking Load LVABC Low Voltage Aerial Bundled Cable PVC Polyvinyl Chloride
CCT Circuit LVM Low Voltage Main PW Parallel Webbed
Chng Chainage
C/I, C&I Commercial and/or Industrial MDCF Maximum Depth Concrete Foundation QESI Queensland Electricity Supply
Industry
CMEN Common Multiple Earth Neutral MEN Multiple Earthed Neutral
Conc Concrete MES Mean Equivalent Span (ruling span) RBGF Road Base Gravel Foundation
CT Current Transformer MWT Maximum Working Tension RC Reinforced Concrete
Cu Copper RL Reduced Level
NAEF Natural Earth Foundation RMU Ring Main Unit
ECM Electronic Cable Marker NB Nominal Bore RP Registered Plan
EDT Every Day Tension
NMSHVABC Non Metallic Screened HV Aerial XLPE Cross Linked Polyethylene
Bundled cable

B DATE 30/6/03 APP’D D Lloyd

APP’D D LLOYD DATE 28/05/02 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CKD G BARTLETT REC’D M Irvine
ATHR M IRVINE © COPYRIGHT 2003 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ADSS AND OPGW AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 1 OF 6
in part or whole without written
ADDED
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7054 7054-A4 B
 UNCONTROLLED COPY
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
AERIAL BUNDLED A type of overhead cable available in both LV and HV CADASTRAL MAP A map or plan showing details of land tenure (e.g., property
CABLE comprising XLPE insulated compacted aluminium phase (Parish Map) boundaries or natural features).
conductors laid together to form a ‘bundle’. HVABC CADASTRAL SURVEY A map or plan showing details of land tenure use for
incorporates a catenary wire for extra support and earthing PLAN lodgement to the titles office.
and either a metallic or nonmetallic screen. LVABC is self
supporting. CALCULATED The minimum load (in kN) at which a conductor fails,
In some cases, a HDPE oversheath is incorporated for BREAKING LOAD >breaks= or exceeds its maximum tensile strength.
improved abrasion resistance. CANTILEVER STAY See “Sidewalk Stay”.
AERIAL STAY A staywire erected between two poles or between a pole CAPITAL A payment which an electricity authority requires a
and a bollard. CONTRIBUTION customer to make before starting work on a capital (new, or
AUSTRALIAN HEIGHT A level surface based on the mean sea level at thirty tide adding to the value of the authority’s assets) project on
DATUM gauges around Australia’s mainland coast. behalf of the customer. The payment may fully or partly
cover the cost of the works.
AUSTRALIAN MAP A means of identifying a site within Australia by coordinate
GRID (Northing and Easting). CLINOMETER An instrument for measuring slope.

AIR BREAK SWITCH
3∅, ganged, pole mounted switching device utilising air as
an insulation medium. Capable of making, carrying and
breaking currents to specified levels under normal
conditions. Capabilities are extended through use of arcing
horns or “Arcmasters” which respectively provide limited to
full load break ability. Air breaks cannot interrupt fault
currents. Refer Isolator Switch.
AutoCAD A popular proprietary software Computer-Aided Drafting
package suitable for use with Personal Computers.
Registered Trademark of AutoDesk, Inc.
AUXILIARY BOARD Addition to a LV switchboard. In general it:
• includes a GPO with fuse and link
• may have additional fused supplies
• is connected between the LV switch (ie. isolator or
switch fuse), and the most convenient LV fuse or
switch fuse.
BAY See “Span”.
BLOWOUT The horizontal deviation from centre of powerline
conductors subjected to wind forces.
BOLLARD A pole specifically for supporting an aerial staywire.
BRIDGING Short flexible leads providing electrical continuity across
points on the system which are structurally broken.
CHAINAGE The distance from a datum along the centreline of a
roadway. This term and offset are used to make reference
to points on roadworks plans.
CIRCUIT BREAKER Mechanical switching device capable of making, carrying
and breaking currents under normal conditions.
Capable of making, carrying for a specified time and
breaking currents under specified abnormal conditions (eg.
short circuits).
Primary control is via external protection relays and manual
overrides.
Circuit breakers are normally ground mounted.
A circuit breaker (fitted with automatic reclose and external
protection relays) is operationally similar to a recloser.
Circuit breakers may occur in ring main units. Refer
Recloser.
A combination of links that, close the through circuit and
COMBINATION LINKS
then isolate the apparatus in one sequenced action, or vice
versa (eg. Live bypass for single-phase regulators).
COMMON MEN The LV MEN system extended to include the HV system
SYSTEM (CMEN) earthing with voltages up to subtransmission level. See
“Multiple Earth Neutral”.

A DATE APP’D D Lloyd

APP’D DATE 28/05/02 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 2 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7054 7054-A4 A
 COMMON USE POLE
UNCONTROLLEDDUCT
COPY
A pole owned by either the electricity authority or some A pipe or closed passage formed underground or in a
other authority (e.g., Telstra) used by both parties to structure and intended to receive one or more cables which
support their mains. may be drawn through them.
CONDEMNED POLE A pole assessed as unsuitable to remain in service, EARTHING (Earths) The process of connecting components of electricity supply
typically due to diminished strength from white-ant attack, networks to ground to prevent dangerous voltages
below-ground rot or some other cause. occurring on components which may be contacted by
CONDUCTOR A wire or other form of conducting material suitable for persons, or which may be damaged by the voltages.
carrying current. Usually applied to rods, metallic electrodes or a group of
interconnected rods and the wire making connection to the
CONDUIT See “Duct”. distribution system component that is ‘earthed’.
CONSTRUCTION Pole attachments and their configuration, including EASEMENT A strip of land registered on the title deed in the office of
crossarms and insulators. the Registrar of Titles allowing access or other rights to a
CONSTRUCTION See “Works Plan”. public body or party other than the owner of the parcel of
DRAWING land on which the easement exists.
CORFLO A commercial name for a type of ribbed UPVC conduit. EVERY DAY TENSION See “Sustained Load”.
CROSS-ROAD PILLAR A service pillar fed by underground supply from the EXCESS CABLE A charge electricity authorities apply to customers to cover
opposite side of the road. CHARGE the cost of service cable and installation longer than the
CUBICLE See “Padmounted Transformer”. maximum length provided free of charge.
TRANSFORMER EXCAVATION NOTICE A form electricity authorities use to obtain approval to
The depth of excavation needed to reduce the existing excavate a local or public authority footpath to erect poles
CUT
ground levels to proposed ground levels at a particular or install underground cables.
point in a roadworks or other construction project. FEEDER A circuit (normally HV) emanating from a substation for
distributing electric power.
DISCONNECT BOX Junction box (typically set in the ground), which permits
cables to be connected in various configurations, via use of FIELD BOOK A notebook used to record site survey data (e.g.,
links. distances, bearings, angles, slope readings and
1∅, air insulated (normally), switch used to isolate lines topographical features).
DISCONNECT LINK
and apparatus from the network. A disconnect link shall be FILL The depth of earth to be deposited and compacted to raise
easily operable as a switch. It shall not require unbolting existing ground levels to proposed ground levels at a
(or otherwise complex disconnection), of electrical particular point in a roadworks or other construction
connections. Refer Link. project.
DISTRIBUTION That part of the electricity supply network at voltages below FOOTPATH A distance relative to the edge of a footpath (usually the
NETWORK transmission/ subtransmission level (typically 22 kV, 11 kV ALIGNMENT property boundary side) used to describe the position of an
and LV). See also “Distribution Mains” or “Distribution underground service or pole.
System”. FOOTPATH A space in the footpath between two alignments
DISTRIBUTION A substation that transforms or converts electrical energy ALLOCATION designated by the local or public authority in which a pole
SUBSTATION from a higher voltage network to a secondary distribution or underground service may be located.
network (see also “Padmounted Transformer”). GATIC A commercial name for a type of segmented steel and
DROP OUT (DO) or Drop Out fuse (DO) is a fuse where the fuse carrier drops concrete cover used on cast-in-situ pits in roadways and
into an open position, after the fuse has operated. Use of footpaths.
DROP OUT FUSE
the term EDO shall be discontinued. GROUND CLEARANCE The vertical distance between the conductor and ground.

A DATE APP’D D Lloyd

APP’D DATE 28/05/02 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 3 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7054 7054-A4 A
 UNCONTROLLEDLUMINAIRE
COPY A streetlight fitting including lamp, reflector and control
GUARANTEE A contract signed by a prospective customer which
guarantees an electricity authority a set sum of money equipment.
annually for a fixed term to supply electricity, regardless of MAINS Common parts of a network between various sites,
whether energy is used or not. describing particular voltage classes of
HEAD STAY See “Aerial Stay”. overhead/underground feeder network (e.g., 11 kV mains,
LV mains).
HEIGHT STICK An extendable stick used for measuring the heights of
conductors and poles. MASTER DROP OUT Master Drop Out fuse (MDO) is a 3∅, ganged, protective
FUSE device comprised of drop out fuses.
HIGH VOLTAGE (HV) Electrical potential in the range of 1000V to 33kV.
MDO provides discrimination between upstream and
ISOLATOR SWITCH 1∅ or 3∅, enclosed switching device utilising air, oil, SF6, downstream protection elements. It is typically located
or vacuum Insulation mediums. Capable of making, where a spur or tee-off branches form the feeder
carrying and breaking currents to specified levels under backbone. It is mechanically configured to open all phases
normal conditions. Isolators cannot interrupt fault currents. irrespective of fault type. Refer Drop Out Fuse.
In substations such an enclosed switch shall be called an MAXIMUM DEMAND Maximum Demand Indicator (MDI) is a resettable, peak
isolator and a similar non-enclosed switch shall be called INDICATOR demand, current measuring device.
an air break. Isolators may exist in ring main units.
A location in an electricity supply network where two or MAXIMUM WORKING See “Short Duration Load”.
JOINT
more cables join or terminate. TENSION
JOINT USE See “Common Use Pole”. MEAN EQUIVALENT A theoretical span length used to represent the behaviour
POLE/COLUMN SPAN (Ruling Span) of a number of spans of varying lengths in a strain section
of an overhead powerline.
KING BOLT The main bolt attaching a crossarm or other fixture to a
pole. MODULE A specific learning segment, complete in itself, dealing with
one or more competency units, capable of being separately
KING BOLT SPACING The vertical distance between king bolt attachment points. assessed and standing on its own.
In a top construction, it may be the distance from below the
top of the pole to the attachment point. MOUNTING HEIGHT The vertical distance between the centre of a luminaire and
the surface of the carriageway immediately beneath.
KIOSK TRANSFORMER See “Padmounted Transformer”.
MULTIPLE EARTH An earthing system connecting the neutral conductor to an
LINK 1∅, air insulated (normally), isolation point used to isolate NEUTRAL (MEN) earth electrode in a customer’s electrical installation, at
lines and apparatus from the network. A link shall require electricity authority transformers and at multiple locations
unbolting (or otherwise complex disconnection), of on the electricity distribution network.
electrical connections. Refer Disconnect Link.
NOTICE OF See “Excavation Notice”.
LINK PILLAR A pillar containing isolating links or switch fuses allowing EXCAVATION
the joining together or disconnection of two or more LV
distribution circuits. Commonly found in URD estates. OPISOMETER A small hand instrument like a miniature trundle wheel with
graduated dial carrying an engraved scale. Used in
mapping , it is ‘wheeled’ along a line on a map and the
scale distance read from the dial.
LOAD TRANSFER An enclosed, non-air insulated, pole mounted switch with
SWITCH full load break capability but no inbuilt protection functions. OPTICAL RANGE See “Telemeter”.
FINDER
LONG SECTION See “Profile”.
OUTRIGGER STAY See “Sidewalk Stay”.
LOW VOLTAGE (LV) Electrical potential in the range of 32V to 1000V.
OVERHEAD A map or plan detailing the overhead distribution system

A DATE APP’D D Lloyd

APP’D DATE 28/05/02 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 4 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7054 7054-A4 A
 DISTRIBUTION MAP
UNCONTROLLEDREDUCED
COPY
(e.g., pole positions/numbers, overhead conductor LEVEL The elevation of a point above an adopted datum relative
types/sizes, span lengths, pole substations positions/sizes, to mean sea level.
air break switch positions/sizes and earth sizes). REGULATOR A regulating transformer in which one winding is intended
OVERHEAD MAINS Overhead powerlines constructed of suitable conductors to be connected in series with a circuit in order to alter its
and other components in accordance with the voltage and the other winding is an energising winding.
requirements of the Electricity Regulation. RESOURCE ESTIMATE A list of materials, labour and other requirements for a
PADMOUNTED Transformer mounted on a pad (typically concrete). construction project.
TRANSFORMER Typically considered as a distribution transformer, mounted RING MAIN UNIT Switchable device containing a combination of switch
(Cubicle, Kiosk at ground level and the enclosure (eg. the padmount fuses, and/or isolators, and/or circuit breakers. Typically a
Transformer) container) forms an integral part of the transformer. HV device connected to a transformer.
PARISH MAP See “Cadastral Map”. RULING SPAN See “Mean Equivalent Span”.
PHASING The relative positions of the phases in a polyphase power SAG The vertical distance between an overhead conductor’s
system. midspan height and the chord drawn between the
PILLAR See “Service Pillar”. attachment points of the conductor.
PIT An excavation giving access to underground cables for SAG TEMPLATE A transparent template shaped like a boomerang used to
installation, maintenance or repairs. draw profiles of overhead mains conductor spans.
PLANTING DEPTH See “Sinking Depth”. SAG TENSION A graph of sags and tensions applying to similar conductor
TEMPERATURE CURVE types over a range of span lengths and temperatures.
POINT OF ENTRY The position on a customer’s premises where the electricity
authority’s overhead service is attached. SECTIONALISER Switching device that automatically isolates faulted
sections of line from the distribution system. Normally
POLE A structure (wood, concrete, steel poles and columns)
applied in conjunction with a recloser or circuit breaker.
supporting conductors and other equipment forming part of
Sectionalizer has no fault interrupting capability. It counts
the overhead mains.
operations of recloser/circuit breaker during fault
POLE STAY See “Aerial Stay”. conditions. After a fixed number of counts the sectionalizer
POLETOP SWITCH See “Air Break Switch”. opens while the reloser/circuit breaker is open.
A longitudinal cross-section of ground or a powerline used Sectionalizer is available in 1∅ & 3∅ versions with
PROFILE
to check clearances and select optimum pole positions. hydraulic or electronic counting mechanisms.
SERVICE The electricity authority’s wires (running overhead or
RANGE ROD A painted staff or rod surveyors use to maintain a straight underground) connecting its mains to the customer’s
line or mark point. premises.
RATE See “Tariff”. An enclosure where underground supply to a customer’s
SERVICE PILLAR/PIT
RECLOSER 1∅, or 3∅ protective device able to sense over currents, to premises is connected to the secondary distribution
time and interrupt overcurrents, and to reclose network through a primary fuse.
automatically to re-energise line sections. Line sections SHORT DURATION The force applied by the conductors to support structures
with “permanent faults” may be isolated after a set number LOAD in an intense wind.
of operations. Reclosers have hydraulic or electronic
controls and use oil, SF6 or vacuum interrupting mediums. SIDEWALK STAY A type of ground stay where the staywire is installed
Primary control is internal or via manual overrides. vertically; used where footpath space is limited.
Reclosers are normally pole mounted. Refer Circuit SINKING DEPTH The depth of a pole below ground level.
Breaker.

A DATE APP’D D Lloyd

APP’D DATE 28/05/02 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 5 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7054 7054-A4 A
 SPAN (Bay)
UNCONTROLLEDTIPCOPY
The horizontal distance between the pole attachment
LOAD Equivalent mechanical load applied to a pole tip by
points of an overhead conductor. attached conductors or stays.
SPANNING LIMITATION The maximum span distance and deviation angle that may TOPOGRAPHICAL MAP A map or plan showing details of the natural and manmade
be used for a given conductor and construction in an features of the country (e.g., hills, rivers, forests, swamps,
overhead powerline. roads and railway bridges etc.).
SPUR LINE A short radial electricity line. TRANSFORMER A device that transfers electrical energy from one circuit to
STATION A site at which a survey measurement is taken. another, via a magnetic field that links the circuits.
TRENCHING Trenches excavated by an electricity authority or developer
STRENGTH RATING The maximum allowable pole tip load that may be applied
to install underground cables.
to a pole by both conductors and wind forces on the pole
itself. TRUNDLE WHEEL A device used to measure linear distances.
STRAIN SECTION A section of overhead powerline between fixed strain UNDERGROUND A map or plan detailing the underground distribution
points (shackle or termination constructions). DISTRIBUTION MAP system service (e.g., pillar and pit positions, cable pit
positions, duct sizes and configurations and cable sizes).
STRINGING TABLE A table providing stringing tensions and/or sags for a
nominated conductor over a range of span lengths and VERTICAL STAY See “Sidewalk Stay”.
conductor temperatures. WAVE SAGGING A way of determining conductor sag by timing the return of
STRINGING TENSION The tension to which a conductor is installed in an a wave generated at one end.
overhead powerline. WAYLEAVE A written authority which the owner/occupier of a property
SUSTAINED LOAD The continuous force exerted by conductors under no wind uses to authorise an electricity authority to construct,
conditions at 15°C. maintain and clear vegetation for electrical line
installations.
SUBDIVIDER’S SUPPLY An agreement between a supply authority and a developer
AGREEMENT (subdivider) covering conditions of supply to a subdivision. WORKS A document providing authorisation of works and
AUTHORISATION expenditure associated with provision of electricity supply.
SWITCH FUSE Combination switch and fuse providing a switchable
isolation point and protective fusing. Use of the term fuse WORKS PLAN An instruction in the form of a drawing or plan detailing the
switch shall be discontinued. (Construction Drawing) construction requirements to carry out nominated capital or
SWITCH GEAR Switching devices and their combination with associated maintenance works on the electricity distribution system.
control, measuring, protective and regulating equipment.
This may include assemblies, interconnections,
accessories, enclosures and supporting structures
associated with such equipment.
TARIFF A scale of charges and set of conditions electricity
authorities apply to customers to cover the capital cost of
installation, maintenance and electricity consumed.
TELEMETER (Optical A handheld optical instrument which measures the height
Range Finder) of objects (conductors etc.) by focusing two images of the
object in the field of view until they are aligned. The
distance between the instrument and object is read from a
scale on the instrument. The height of the instrument
above ground is added to the reading to determine the
object’s height.

A DATE APP’D D Lloyd

APP’D DATE 28/05/02 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
CKD REC’D M Irvine
ATHR © COPYRIGHT 2002 ENERGEX CKD G Dowling
This drawing must not be reproduced
ORIGINAL ISSUE AUTHR S Hennessy SHEET 6 OF 6
in part or whole without written
permission from ENERGEX WORD FILE ODM\6935\7054 7054-A4 A