Finite element model of the contact between a vibrating conductor and a suspension clamp

Aeolian vibrations may lead to failure of the overhead conductors of electrical transmission lines. Damages are caused by fretting fatigue at the attachment position of pieces of hardware. This phenomenon depends much on contact mechanics. The contact between a wire and a suspension clamp, a critical location, was modelled using the finite element method. Results from strain measurements on vibrating conductors served as input. The numerical results gave estimates of stresses and slip amplitudes. We can use these results to compute crack initiation criteria. The Ruiz and Chen criterion was chosen here and results compared well with experimental data.

► Finite element model of the contact between a suspension clamp and a conductor wire.
► Stresses and slip are estimated at the completely yielded contact interface.
► Ruiz and Chen criterion shows how results could be used to develop fatigue indicators.
► The efficacy of a microcontact model to evaluate contact conditions is assessed.