Enhancement on Al–Mg–Si alloys against failure due to lightning arc occurred in energy transmission lines

This article has been prepared to share some experience and technical investigation related to lightning and short circuit strength of the OPGW type conductor used in transmission lines. It is well known that overhead ground wires are vulnerable to strand breakage due to lightning strikes. Recently applications of composite fiber optic ground wire have become more important to protect them from such damage. In this paper, we present test results before and after application of modification to the main conductive part of the conductor, which is composed of AA-6101 alloy, galvanized steel and SS-steel tube with fibers. Modification of AA-6101 aluminum alloy was performed by adding 3% AlB2 into molten metal. After having completed manufacturing of the improved feedstock at CCL, we performed the drawing and stranding of wires.

► Al–Mg–Si alloys were used as lightning conductor for electric power transmission lines. ► Lightning strikes cause the OPGW strands to break. ► Although, the OPGW passed short circuit test requirements, it was failed by lightning test completely. ► Improving of Al–Mg–Si alloy was performed using AlB2 compound and conductivity of the OPGW was increased. ► As a result we have developed excellent lightning resistance for OPGW.