Overhead Conductor Installation Guide: Recommended Practices

Overhead Conductor
Installation Guide
Recommended Practices
First Edition
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Overhead Conductor Installation Guide

First Edition
Table of Contents
1
INTRODUCTION
pg 5
OVERHEAD CONDUCTOR HANDLING
pg 5
OVERHEAD CONDUCTOR STRINGING METHODS
pg 5
3.1 Tension Method
pg 5
3.2 Semi-Tension Method
pg 6
3.3 Layout Method
pg 6
3.4 Slack Method
pg 6
TENSIONER TYPES
4.1 Offset Multi-Groove Bullwheel Tensioner

Figure 1 - Offset Multi-Groove Bullwheel Tensioner
pg 6
pg 6
pg 7

4.2 Tilted Multi-Groove Bullwheel Tensioner
Figure 2 - Tilted Multi-Groove Bullwheel Tensioner
pg 7
4.3 Motorized Bullwheel Tensioner
pg 7
4.4 Combination Bullwheel Tensioner/Pay-off Trailers
pg 7
4.5 V-Groove Tensioner
pg 7
BULLWHEEL TENSIONER AND STRINGING SHEAVE DIMENSIONS
pg 8

5.1 Bullwheel Tensioner Dimensions - Diameter, Groove Radius and Depth Calculations
Table 1 - Recommended Bullwheel Tensioner Dimensions
pg 8
pg 8
5.2 Bullwheel Tensioner Lining Material

5.3 Stringing Sheave Dimensions - Diameter, Groove Radius, Depth and Flare Angle Calculations

Table 2 - Recommended Stringing Sheave Dimensions
Figure 3 - T-2 Stringing Sheave Profile

5.4 Stringing Sheave Lining Material
CONDUCTOR STRINGING OPERATION
pg 8
pg 9
pg 10
pg 10
pg 10

6.1 Conductor Grips
Figure 4 Special End Preparation for Woven Wire Grip Assembly on ACSS and ACSS/TW
Figure 5 T-2 Sling Grip Arrangement
pg 10
pg 11
pg 11
6.2 Bottom-End Conductor Attachment to Reel
pg 12

6.3 Stringing Setup
Figure 6 - Stringing Setup Equipment Alignment
pg 12

6.4 Pay-off Brake Tension
Figure 7 - T-2 Damage due to Excessive Brake Tension on Pay-off Reel
pg 12
pg 13
pg 13
6.5 Rolling (or Running) Ground
info@generalcable.com

First Edition
Table of Contents (cont.)

6.6 Angle Changes (Breakover Sheave and Sheave Diameter)
pg 13

6.7 Support of Stringing Sheaves at Angles

Figure 8 Supporting of Stringing Sheaves at Angles
pg 13
pg 14
6.8 Recommended Maximum Pulling Tension
pg 14
6.9 Conductor Side Wall Bearing Pressure
pg 15
6.10 Time in Stringing Sheaves
pg 16
6.11 Pre-Tensioning
pg 16
6.12 Sagging
pg 16
6.13 Sag Adjustments
pg 17
6.14 Clipping
pg 17
HARDWARE
pg 17
INSTALLATION PULL RECORD
pg 18
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
pg 18
Figure 9 - Example of a T-2 Conductor Splice
pg 17
USING THIS MANUAL

The information contained herein is intended for evaluation and use by technically skilled and appropriately trained persons.
Although the information is believed to be accurate as of the date of printing, General Cable makes no representations or
warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to the accuracy or completeness of this document, nor does General Cable
assume any obligation to update or correct the same in the future. You should always consult a trained professional for the
most current industry practices and procedures unique to your application.
By providing this manual, General Cable makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of its
products. Customers should refer to their sales agreements, product specifications, and invoices for all warranty information.
GENERAL CABLE, T-2 and TRANSPOWR
are trademarks of General Cable Technologies Corporation.
Highland Heights, KY 41076
All rights reserved. Printed in USA.

First Edition
1 INTRODUCTION
This guide provides suggestions for various methods, equipment and tools that have been found practical based on field
experience during the installation of General Cables TransPowr bare overhead conductors on transmission lines. It is
also applicable to many aspects of distribution line installations. The intent of this guide, along with IEEE Standard 524,
Guide to the Installation of Overhead Transmission Line Conductors, is to provide guidance for an optimized installation of
overhead conductors. The recommended dimensions for the stringing sheaves and bullwheel tensioner have been adapted
from the IEEE publication. It is recognized that each and every installation set-up is different and there will be situations
where customized techniques will be required that may be different from those found within this document.
This installation guide applies to the following conductor constructions: TransPowr AAC, AAC/T-2, AAAC, AACSR, ACAR,
ACSR, ACSR/TW, ACSR/T-2, ACSS, ACSS/TW, Covered Line Wire and Tree Wire.
As recommended by IEEE Standard 524, the conductor used in a given pull or sagging section shall be from a single manufacturer.
Special procedures for TransPowr ACSS, ACSS/TW and T-2 are provided in the tabbed sections throughout the
Installation Guide.
TransPowr ACSS and ACSS/TW products are high temperature bare overhead conductors manufactured with fully annealed
1350-O aluminum wires. The annealed aluminum wires are softer and much more ductile than the hard drawn wires in ACSR and
ACSR/TW conductors. While these conductor types may be installed using techniques and equipment similar to that used to install
conventional ACSR and ACSR/TW conductors, there are some special procedures that are recommended.
TransPowr AAC/T-2 and ACSR/T-2 products are bare overhead conductors manufactured with two tension-balanced
conventional component conductors twisted around each other. While this conductor type may be installed using techniques
and equipment similar to that used to install standard round overhead conductors, there are some special procedures that are
recommended. Also discussed in this guide are problems that can be encountered during installation and suggested troubleshooting steps that may be of further assistance during the installation of TransPowr T-2.
2 OVERHEAD CONDUCTOR HANDLING

The emphasis in any bare conductor installation should be placed on avoiding damage to the conductor surface. The
conductor should not be dragged across the bare ground, over rocks, fences or guard structures. Overhead conductor
should never be rewound from the original shipping reel to another reel in the field. Reels should be stored with the flanges
upright on paved or compacted surfaces. For long-term storage, the flanges of the reel should be supported using wood or
similar cribbing to keep the reel flange off of the ground. Never lay or transport a reel on its side.
3 OVERHEAD CONDUCTOR STRINGING METHODS

Most methods of installation have been used satisfactorily to install overhead conductors. These conductor stringing
methods include Tension, Semi-Tension, Layout and Slack. All of these methods are adequate for distribution line erection.
General Cable and IEEE Standard 524 only recommend the tension method (Section 3.1) for the installation of ACSS and
ACSS/TW as well as for any other multilayer transmission conductor construction, defined as having more than one layer of
aluminum over the core or central wire. The following is a brief description of each of these methods.
3.1 Tension Method

The tension method means that the conductor is pulled into position under tension. A puller (winch) is set
up at one end of the line section, and a bullwheel tensioner at the other end. The reel of conductor is staged
behind the bullwheel tensioner. A steel cable or synthetic rope, called a pulling line, is strung from the puller
through each stringing block between the puller and bullwheel tensioner. The end of the pulling line is then
attached to the conductor end after it has been threaded through the bullwheel tensioner. During the stringing
process, the conductor is pulled through the stringing sheaves until the end reaches the puller. The tension
maintained between the bullwheel tensioner and the puller keeps the conductor clear of the ground and other
obstructions that could cause damage. It is important to note that the back-tension is created and controlled by
the bullwheel tensioner and not the pay-off reel.

First Edition
3.2 Semi-Tension Method

This method is similar to tension stringing except in this method the conductor is pulled directly off the pay-off
reel and into the spans. Minimal ground clearance is maintained by applying gentle braking force to the let-off
reel. It is important to recognize that the amount of braking force must be kept to an absolute minimum level.
Excessive braking force cannot only damage the remaining conductor on the reel, but it can also damage or
collapse the reel itself.
This method must not be used for the installation of TransPowr ACSS, ACSS/TW or multilayer transmission
size conductors.
3.3 Layout Method

This method is similar to the slack method except the lead end of the conductor is tied off and the reel is
mounted onto a vehicle or trailer which travels down the line section, paying out the conductor as it goes.
The conductor is then lifted and placed into a stringing sheave at each structure.
size conductors.
3.4 Slack Method

This method consists of mounting the conductor reel on stands or jacks, leaving it free to rotate with just
enough braking force on the reel to prevent over-run, backlash or loops. A vehicle, to which the conductor is
attached, is driven past each structure while pulling out the conductor. At each structure, the conductor is lifted
and placed into a stringing sheave. A stringing sheave may also be referred to as a traveler, block, dolly, sheave,
stringing block, or stringing traveler. The vehicle continues to the end of the line section being installed.
size conductors.
4 TENSIONER TYPES
Bullwheel tensioners rely on friction between the bullwheel and the conductor to create tension in the conductor. To
increase the area in contact between the two, multi-groove bullwheel tensioners are used. In order to wrap the conductor
into the grooves, two wheels in tandem are used. Two different bullwheel tensioner typesoffset and tiltedare used to
transition the conductor from the back wheel to the front wheel. Bare aluminum conductors are built with a right-hand lay
on the outside layer, so the bullwheel tensioner, regardless of the type, must be a right-hand lay design. As recommended
by IEEE Standard 524, the conductor enters the tensioner from the top left-most groove of the front bullwheel and exits
from the top right-most groove of the back bullwheel. All grooves of the bullwheels must be used.
Combination Bullwheel Tensioner/Pay-off Trailers and V-Groove Tensioners are also suitable for the installation of small
conductor sizes. These tensioner types are discussed in more detail in Sections 4.4 and 4.5.
4.1 Offset Multi-Groove Bullwheel Tensioner

Figure 1 illustrates an offset multi-groove bullwheel tensioner. The front and back bullwheels stand vertical
but are offset by half a grooves width. It is important that the radius of the grooves, and the bullwheel diameter
at the bottom of the grooves, be sized correctly. The offset multi-groove bullwheel tensioner has been used
successfully for many years.

First Edition
Figure 1 Offset Multi-Groove

Bullwheel Tensioner
Pull to Tower
Pull to Tower
Figure 2 Tilted Multi-Groove

Bullwheel Tensioner
Offset
Wheels
Tilted
Wheels
Payoff from Reel
Payoff from Reel
4.2 Tilted Multi-Groove Bullwheel Tensioner

Figure 2 illustrates another common tensioner where the grooves at the top of the two wheels are in line,
but one wheel is slightly tilted. This type of tensioner allows the conductor to enter and exit each groove in a
straight line, reducing the potential of the conductor to rub against the side of the groove which can loosen
the strands in the outer layer. It is important that the radius of the grooves, and the bullwheel diameter at the
bottom of the grooves, be sized correctly.
The tilted multi-groove bullwheel tensioner has also been used successfully for many years and is the preferred
tensioner recommended by IEEE Standard 524 for large sizes of TransPowr T-2 conductor.
4.3 Motorized Bullwheel Tensioner

Equipment used for the bullwheel tensioner can be motorized using a hydraulic system to work as the braking
mechanism and apply the back tension for the pull. The same hydraulic system can be used to inadvertently
push the conductor into the string instead of acting as a back brake.
A motorized bullwheel tensioner is not recommended for TransPowr T-2 conductors, as it has been found that if
the speed of the motorized bullwheel tensioner is not regulated to keep the conductors tight against the bottom of
the bullwheels, the conductors may open up as the twisted pair passes through the tensioner. Speed and tension
mismatch between the tensioner and the puller can result in the twists of the T-2 conductor spreading and jumping
over the bullwheel.
4.4 Combination Bullwheel Tensioner/Pay-off Trailers

Combination bullwheel/pay-off trailer tensioning units can be used for small conductor sizes. For larger
conductors, this type of tensioning unit does not allow for sufficient distance between the reel and the
bullwheel device. Caution is advised when using this type of equipment for multilayer conductor sizes.
This type of equipment must not be used for the installation of TransPowr ACSS, ACSS/TW or T-2 conductors.
4.5 V-Groove Tensioner

V-Groove tensioners are adequate for small 7-wire (or 8-wire) AWG size conductors. General Cable does not
support the use of a V-Groove tensioner with any type of multilayer conductor, as recommended by
IEEE Standard 524.
V-Groove tensioners must not be used for the installation of TransPowr ACSS, ACSS/TW or T-2 conductors.

First Edition
5 BULLWHEEL TENSIONER AND STRINGING SHEAVE DIMENSIONS

The two most important dimensions to check when selecting the correct size of a bullwheel tensioner and stringing sheave
are the groove radius and the diameter at the bottom of the groove. Note that the overall diameter (at the top of the groove)
of the stringing sheave or bullwheel tensioner is not a critical dimension.
5.1 Bullwheel Tensioner Dimensions - Diameter, Groove Radius and Depth Calculations
The dimensions recommended by IEEE Standard 524 shall be in accordance with Table 1.
Table 1 Recommended Bullwheel Tensioner Dimensions
Rg
Db
Dg
Dc
Dc
DC is defined as the conductor outside diameter, except for T-2, where DC = 2 x diameter of one of the
component conductors.
Component
ACSR, ACSR/TW,
ACSS, ACSS/TW
T-2
Minimum Bullwheel Diameter

at Bottom of Groove: Db
Db = 39 DC- 4 (in)
Db = 39 DC - 100 (mm)
Db = 28 DC
Radius of Groove: Rg

Minimum
Maximum
Minimum
Layer(s) of Aluminum: 1-2 layers

3 layers
> 3 layers
Rg = 0.525 DC Rg = 1.10 DC
Rg = 0.525 DC Rg = 0.75 DC
Rg = 0.525 DC Rg = 0.625 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Minimum Groove Depth: Dg
Dg = 0.5 DC
Dg = 1.25 DC
5.2 Bullwheel Tensioner Lining Material

To avoid scratching or marking the surface of the conductor, bullwheels must be lined. The lining material can
be urethane or molded nylon segments.

5.3 Stringing Sheave Dimensions - Diameter, Groove Radius, Depth and

Flare Angle Calculations
For small distribution conductor sizes (less than 477 kcmil) and small AWG sizes of TransPowr T-2, and
for slack and layout installation methods, the small Universal Stringing Block has been successfully used.
Universal Stringing Blocks are not recommended for any type of transmission line conductor installation.
For the stringing sheave dimensions applicable to multilayer conductors in accordance with IEEE Standard 524,
see Table 2 on page 9.

First Edition
Table 2 Recommended Stringing Sheave Dimensions
Gf
Ds
Dg
Rg
Dc
Dc
DC is defined as the conductor outside diameter, except for T-2, where DC = 2 x diameter of one of the component conductors.
Component
AAC, AAAC, AACSR,

ACAR, ACSR, ACSR/TW
ACSS,
ACSS/TW
For typical pulls:

DS = 20 DC - 8 (in)
DS = 20 DC - 200 (mm)
Minimum Diameter
at Bottom of Groove: DS
(see notes below)
For pulls greater than

approx. 10,000 ft (3,000 m):
DS = 20 DC- 4 (in)
DS = 20 DC - 100 (mm)
DS = 20 DC
For pulls over substantially

uneven terrain or at large
angles or elevation changes:
DS = 20 DC
Radius of Groove: Rg
Layer(s) of Aluminum: 1-2 layers

3 layers

> 3 layers
Minimum
Rg = 0.55 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Minimum Groove Depth: Dg

Groove Flare Angle: Gf
Maximum
Rg = 1.10 DC
Rg = 0.75 DC
Rg = 0.625 DC
T-2
Range
DS
For component
conductors:
< 795 kcmil
-> 795 kcmil
14 DC
15 DC
At angles
or elevation
changes
16 DC
Minimum
Rg = 0.55 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Rg = 0.55 DC
Maximum
See Fig. 3
Dg = 1.25 DC
15 < Gf < 20
Gf > 20
Notes:
- For the installation of multilayer transmission conductors, DS must never be less than 16 x DC.
- For angles or elevation changes, a tandem sheave arrangement may be used in place of a larger sheave.
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, field experience indicates that the bottom of the groove and flare profile is
important. The bottom of the groove profile must not restrict the conveyance of the normal twist in the conductor pair
in passing over and through the stringing sheave. If the profile is too flat, it may cause the twist to be pushed back, and
this action can be observed as violent rocking motion of the stringing sheave. If the profile is too narrow, it may cause
pinching of the individual conductors and result in the pair of conductors having to rise up and fall down as they pass
through the sheave. An inappropriate sheave groove profile will result in excessive scratching and displacement of the
outer aluminum wires in one or both conductors. See Figure 3.

First Edition
Figure 3 - T-2 Stringing Sheave Profile
Too Flat
Too Narrow
Appropriate
When smaller than recommended bottom of the groove diameter sheaves are necessary, consideration should be
given to shortening the pull length and reducing the total number of stringing sheaves utilized in the pull to avoid
conductor damage.
5.4 Stringing Sheave Lining Material

It is very important to inspect the stringing sheave lining condition, as worn or torn linings should not be
used. A worn out lining at the bottom of the groove means that the conductor will not track true and will have
uneven pressure applied to it as it passes through the sheave. Stringing sheaves should roll smoothly when
the conductor is being pulled through. A stringing sheave that bounces or does not spin at a constant speed
indicates bad bearings. When this occurs, the conductor pull should be stopped, and the defective stringing
sheave shall be replaced.
Urethane or neoprene-lined stringing sheaves have been successfully used in the installation of bare overhead
conductors. For multilayer conductors, bare aluminum stringing sheaves should not be used, as they may
scratch the conductor.
For TransPowr ACSS and ACSS/TW conductors, in accordance with IEEE Standard 524, unlined sheaves of any kind
should never be used.
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, it is recommended to use urethane-lined stringing sheaves at angles.
Neoprene-lined stringing sheaves have caused problems where the twisted pair climbs up the side of the sheave.
6 CONDUCTOR STRINGING OPERATION

6.1 Conductor Grips

There is a wide variety of conductor grip styles and tie-down products available in the industry. Always consult
with the grip manufacturer for the correct selection so that the grip type and configuration is sized for the
diameter and type of conductor being installed and is capable of holding the conductor to the highest tension
that is anticipated during the sagging operation.
There are two basic types of mechanical grips that are used to secure the conductor during the pulling, sagging
or dead-ending operation. The Klein (Chicago) and Crescent types of grip are open-sided rigid body with
opposing jaws and swing latch that pinch the conductor between the jaws. The pocketbook type of grip, often
referred to as come-along, suitcase, or four bolt, incorporates a bail attached to the body of a clamp that folds
to completely surround and envelop the conductor. Bolts are then used to close the clamp and obtain a grip.
A woven wire grip (often referred to as a basket, wire mesh, Kellem, or sock) sized to fit over the conductor
and a suitably sized swivel link should be used for tension stringing. To prevent the grip from accidentally
coming off the conductor, two punch-lock steel bands should be applied at the open end of the grip over the
woven wire grip and conductor. Tape applied over the bands will protect the bullwheel tensioners and stringing
sheave lining from the steel bands.
10

First Edition
For TransPowr ACSS and ACSS/TW conductors during the sagging operations or tying down the conductor ends,
double-jawed pulling grips and pocketbook (come-along) grips are recommended in accordance with IEEE Standard
524. Two grips can be used to increase the holding strength and reduce the possibility of damaging the conductor when
sagging. Note that when utilizing two pulling grips in tandem, they do not equal twice the individual grip rated holding
strength. Field tests can be utilized to determine the tension capability of the tandem grip arrangement.
For ACSS and ACSS/TW, if there is a need for a high pulling tension (such as for a long span, or with multiple reels pulled
in tandem), special end preparation steps may be utilized to ensure the lead end pulling grip does not pull off the end of
the conductor. See Figure 4. If this method is used, care must be taken during the pull, as the conductor could potentially
bunch up inside the woven wire grip. Bunching can form a knot just behind the washers that could jam and/or damage
the stringing sheaves.
Figure 4 Special End Preparation for Woven Wire Grip Assembly on ACSS and ACSS/TW
conductor core
direction of pull
2 punch-lock
bands
punch-lock band
over aluminum
two flat
washers
crimped steel sleeve

(cut 2 long)
To apply the woven wire grip,

i. Cut back six inches of the aluminum strands to expose the steel core.
ii. Slide on flat washers over steel core. Washer OD must be slightly less than the conductor OD.
iii. Crimp on a short piece of steel core compression sleeve.
iv. Apply a punch-lock band over aluminum strands just behind washers.
v. Slide the woven wire grip over the conductor and apply the two punch-lock steel bands.
vi. Apply tape over top of the steel bands to protect the stringing sheaves as the woven wire grip passes through them.
For TransPowr T-2, a single woven wire grip sized to fit over both component conductors and a swivel link should be
used for tension stringing. Each shipping length of T-2 conductor has metal bands applied at the factory around both
component conductors. It is recommended by IEEE Standard 524 that these bands not be removed for the stringing
procedure and that the woven wire grip be slid over them. These bands maintain the component conductor tension
balance relationship during installation, splicing, or dead ending the conductor. Please note that if the T-2 conductor is
to be cut before the entire reel of conductor is consumed, it is important that the conductor pair is re-banded while still
under tension. Failure to do this may result in problems while stringing the remaining length of conductor on the reel.
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, it is important for both conductors to be simultaneously tensioned, as recommended by
IEEE Standard 524. This is accomplished by utilizing a special tensioning grip assembly that attaches to each component
conductor. The two grips are connected through a snatch block with a sling. Tension is applied to the snatch block with a hoist
or other appropriate tensioning device. This arrangement will apply even tension to the component conductors. See Figure 5.
Figure 5 T-2 Sling Grip Arrangement
T-2
conductor
snatch
block
grip
chain
hoist
sling
grip
11

First Edition
6.2 Bottom-End Conductor Attachment to Reel

The bottom end of the conductor on the reel must be secured to the reel to provide a stationary attachment
point during manufacture and payout of the conductor. The end attachment must never be relied upon as an
anchor point for the conductor. When paying out the conductor, the stringing operation must be stopped before
the reel completely empties, and any required back tension must be transferred from the conductor on the reel
to some other anchor point. The conductor end that is attached to the reel must never be considered as a brake
or end-stop, as it is not capable of withstanding a conductor run out situation.
6.3 Stringing Setup

Figure 6 shows a typical conductor stringing operation set-up. Ideally, the pay-off reel, tensioner, first stringing
sheave, and the first span past the break-over structure should be lined up as straight as possible. The ratio
of the distance to the first structure and the height to the first stringing sheave should be three to one (3:1) as
recommended by IEEE Standard 524, which corresponds to an upwards conductor angle of about 20 degrees.
This practice will limit the vertical load on the structure and also the conductor pressure on the first sheave.
The pay-off reel must be positioned 50-80 feet back from the start of the bullwheel tensioner.
Figure 6 Stringing Setup Equipment Alignment
SIDE VIEW
The ratio of the distance to the first
structure and the height to the first
stringing sheave should be 3:1. For
TransPowr T-2 conductors, the
ratio should be 4:1.
The pay-off reel must be positioned

50 80 feet back from the start of the
bullwheel tensioner (with brake set as
low as possible to maintain tension).
TOP VIEW
Stringing Sheave
Tensioner
Pay-off
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, the ratio of the distance to the first structure and the height to the first stringing
sheave should be four to one (4:1), as recommended by IEEE Standard 524, which corresponds to an upwards
conductor angle of about 15 degrees.
With T-2 conductors, wherever possible, the use of rollers on or between the reel trailer and the bullwheel tensioner
should be avoided. A roller can cause distortion in the conductor twist. If a roller must be utilized, it should be as large
as possible and constructed of a material that will not scratch the conductor.
6.4 Pay-off Brake Tension

As recommended by IEEE Standard 524, the brake tension on the pay-off reel should only be set high enough to
prevent over-run when pulled into the tensioner.
Pay-off brake tension needs to be monitored throughout the conductor pull. As the reel empties down, it is
important to lower the brake tension to reduce the tension force being applied to the conductor as it is pulled off the
reel. Excessive brake tension can cause distortion of the reel flanges and lead to permanent reel damage. It can
also pull the conductor down between the underlying wraps of conductor, where it could get wedged and damaged.
12

First Edition
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, higher pay-off tension can mark the surface of the conductor as the conductor
enters the tensioner. Excessive brake tension can also cause the top layer of the conductor to crush down the layer of
conductor below and damage or distort the surface of the underlying conductor, i.e., splay open strands. See Figure 7.
Figure 7 T-2 Damage due to Excessive Brake Tension on Pay-off Reel
6.5 Rolling (or Running) Ground

Either a rolling or running ground is typically used during conductor installation. Please consult equipment
manufacturers for the properly sized device to use. For installation of covered conductors, a rotating ground on
the reel pay-off can be used.
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, rolling grounds can be used. It is advised to consult the equipment ground
manufacturer to make sure the rolling ground design selected will work with the T-2 conductors and accommodate
the twisted conductor configuration.
6.6 Angle Changes (Breakover Sheave and Sheave Diameter)

An angle is defined as any directional change in line elevation and/or line direction. For pulls with multiple
angles and/or elevation changes that could potentially cause problems during the pull, the installation should
be broken up into separate pulls. If however the equipment cannot be relocated to reduce the total angle
change, special measures must be taken to reduce the stresses on the conductor in order to eliminate the
potential for damage.
Precaution must be taken to support the stringing sheaves as recommended in Section 6.7 Support of Stringing
Sheaves at Angles.
If an angle is suspected of being a potential problem, it is common practice to have construction crew
personnel at the angle structure during the stringing process to watch as the conductor passes through the
stringing block. Conductor damage can be spotted quickly and remedial action taken immediately.
For TransPowr ACSS and ACSS/TW conductors, it is recommended for significant accumulated angle changes that the pull
is broken up in separate pulls. Larger stringing blocks or tandem configurations should always be used at angles.
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, it is recommended for significant accumulated angle changes that the pull is broken
up in separate pulls. Larger stringing blocks or tandem configurations should always be used at angles.
6.7 Support of Stringing Sheaves at Angles

For significant angle changes, the stringing sheave should be supported by means of a sling to allow the
conductor to roll along in the bottom of the groove.
The stringing sheave in a static condition will hang plumb (vertical). When tension is applied to the pulling line/
conductor, the angle in the line will cause the sheave to swing left or right of plumb, depending on the direction
of the line change.
13

First Edition
Figure 8 includes depictions of conductor tracking through a stringing sheave being pulled through an angle.
When the line tension is pulling the sheave to one side or the other, as pictured in the images on the left hand
side of Figure 8, it causes the conductor to ride up on the side of the sheave. The displacement from center
produces a torsional moment that causes the conductor to rotate clockwise or counter-clockwise, depending
on which side of the sheave the conductor is on.
To ensure that the conductor tracks in the middle of the sheaves groove during stringing, General Cable
recommends supporting the sheaves at angles, as depicted in the images on the right hand side of Figure 8.
This can be done with a simple rope or a chain and hoist if the blocks are heavy. Pulling the sheave to the
appropriate angle minimizes the torsional forces placed on the conductor and the potential for damage.
If tandem sheaves are used, they must be properly secured together and supported in the same manner as
single sheaves.
Figure 8 Supporting of Stringing Sheaves at Angles
Wrong Way
Correct Way
T
O
W
E
R
T
O
W
E
R
L
E
G
L
E
G
Wrong Way
Correct Way
T
O
W
E
R
T
O
W
E
R
L
E
G
L
E
G
6.8 Recommended Maximum Pulling Tension

The maximum pulling tension applied to the conductor should not exceed ten percent (10%) of the rated strength
of the conductor, as recommended by IEEE Standard 524. For example, Drake ACSR has a rated strength of 31,500 lb.
(140 kN), therefore the pulling tension should not exceed 3,150 lb. (14 kN) during the installation of the conductor.
To calculate the recommended pulling tension, the following formula includes the rolling efficiency
of the stringing sheaves:
W L2
1

Tmax =
n
E
8 D
Where:
Tmax = pulling tension (assume level pull)
W = weight of the conductor (lb/ft)
L = average span length (ft)
D = average pulling sag during stringing (ft)
E = % of sheave resistance efficiency, expressed as a decimal (typically 0.98)
n = number of sheaves
14

First Edition
Example: Pulling in 14,000 ft of Drake ACSR/GA2:

1.0939002
1

= 1734lbs
Tmax =
17
0.98
8 90
Where:
W = 1.093 lb/ft
L = 900 ft
D = 90 ft
E = 0.98
n = 17 sheaves
Pulls which include angles and elevation changes will increase the pulling force. Tighter sag values will also
increase the pulling force.
Pulling at 1734 lb (7.7 kN) would be within the ten percent (10%) rule, since the rated strength of Drake
ACSR/GA2 is 31,500 lb. (140 kN).
Pulling at higher tension is sometimes necessary to clear high obstacles along the right of way. Before
resorting to this solution, other methods such as temporary structures or crane-mounted sheaves should be
investigated.
6.9 Conductor Side Wall Bearing Pressure

Another factor that should be considered when installing overhead conductors is the pressure between the
conductor itself and the stringing block lining material. Excessive pressure can damage the conductor by
deforming and/or loosening the aluminum strands. Excessive pressure will alsoaccelerate the wearing away
of the stringing sheave groove lining material. This force is referred to as the side wall bearing pressure or the
conductor bearing pressure. This pressure per unit length between the conductor and the stringing sheave
groove is a function of the pulling tension (T) applied to the conductor,the diameter of the stringing sheave at
the bottom of the groove (Ds), and the diameter of the conductor itself (Dc). The pressure is independent of the
length of radial contact around the sheave. For overhead conductors, the side wall bearing pressure can be
expressed by the following equation:
P=
3T
Ds Dc
Where:
P = side wall bearing pressure (psi) (MPa)
T = conductor tension (lb force) (N)
Ds = diameter of sheave to bottom of groove (inches) (mm)
Dc = diameter of conductor or pulling line (inches) (mm)
For stringing blocks, IEEE 524 suggests a limitation of 500-700 psi (3.4 4.8 MPa) maximum side wall pressure
between the conductor and the sheave to minimize the potential for damaging the conductor.
For TransPowr ACSS and ACSS/TW conductors, it is recommended the maximum conductor side wall force against
the stringing sheave always be less than 350 psi (2.4 MPa).
15

First Edition
Example: Pulling Drake ACSR/GA2 over a stringing sheave with a 24 bottom of the groove diameter:
P =
3T
Ds Dc
31734lb
= 196psi
=
24"1.108"
Where:
T = conductor tension of 1734 lb as calculated in Section 6.8 example
Ds = 24 corresponding to the bottom of the groove diameter of the stringing sheave
Dc = 1.108 for the nominal diameter of Drake ACSR
The calculated conductor side wall pressure force of 196 psi against the groove lining of the stringing sheave
indicates a pulling tension of 1734 lb should not harm the conductor. The calculated value is below the
suggested limitation of 500 700 psi maximum for an ACSR conductor.
6.10 Time in Stringing Sheaves

Conductors should never be left hanging in sheaves for long periods of time. IEEE Standard 524 suggests that
the conductors be sagged within 24 hours of installation. Leaving the conductors sitting in the sheaves can
cause damage, as the conductor is not secured and can come out of the sheave during high wind. Excessive
sag at low tensions can have conductors clashing together. Tension should be kept as low as possible when
temporarily tied down (snubbed-off conductor). The tension should never approach that of the sagging tension
value. Keeping the holding tension low and working within the 24-hour window avoids having to rely on shortterm creep correction curves for subsequent sagging. This is because these curves use assumptions as to
tension, temperature and time, and as such are less accurate as time increases.
6.11 Pre-Tensioning
Although it is not a common practice, in some applications the conductor is pre-stretched prior to sagging.
Pre-tensioning is carried out when it is desirable to sag the conductor according to its final condition. Usually
the conductor is pulled to 50-60% of the rated strength and held for at least one hour. The pre-tension value is
specifically calculated for each installation and temperature. Afterwards, the tension is backed off to the final
sagging tension. Typically pre-tensioning is only done on a few spans. Sheaves and support hardware must be
capable of withholding the applied tension.
6.12 Sagging
The sagging of ACSR conductors can be done using any of the existing methods. Line tension or sag may be set using:
Transit method
Dynamometer (measures tension)
The Stop-Watch method, which is sometimes used to verify tension at multiple locations.
The Stop-Watch equation is:
t =
Sag N 2
12.075
Where:
t = time for Nth return wave (s)
Sag = sag (in)
N = number of return waves
16

First Edition
6.13 Sag Adjustments

When sagging the conductor, the tension adjustments should be completed within one hour. It is good practice to
check the sag at more than one location along the line, selecting level sections with similar span lengths. Bundle
conductors should all be sagged at the same time. Once the sagging tension is set, it should not be adjusted again.
To compensate for conductor creep in situations where the installed conductor has sat in the stringing sheaves and
has not been sagged within 24 hours, estimated creep correction curves should be considered.
6.14 Clipping
Ideally, conductors should be clipped in within 24 hours after the line is brought into sag. The line tension
should never be adjusted again, as creep will have started to take place. IEEE Standard 524 states that the
total time for conductors sitting in the sheaves, from initial installation until clipping, should never be more
than 72 hours. If this time is exceeded, damage may occur to the conductor and/or sheaves. The installation
of dampers, spacers and spacer-dampers should be completed as soon as possible after sagging to prevent
damage to the conductors.
7 HARDWARE
It is important to ensure that the fittings and hardware be suitable for the conductor (type and temperature rating) being
installed. There are numerous overhead conductor splice and dead-end accessories for installations. Always consult with
the accessory manufacturer for the correct selection and installation procedure for its product.
In general, compression accessories are used on large conductors for transmission lines. These fittings have been used
for many years and have proven to be very efficient in being capable of carrying the full mechanical load of any conductors.
Compression accessories come as dead-ends, splices, tap-off, jumper terminals, etc. Bolted and preformed products are
more commonly used on smaller conductors for distribution lines.
For TransPowr ACSS and ACSS/TW conductors in tension span applications, bolted dead-end fittings must not be used.
For TransPowr T-2 conductors, it is important that the line hardware maintains an even conductor tension balance with the two
individual conductors.
For splices in T-2, the conductors are joined by separately splicing each component conductor together. Compression-style
splices are preferred; however, for small AWG sizes, provided the utility will allow their use, automatic type splices have been
used. The splices in the individual component conductors are spaced apart so the adjacent splice bodies do not stack together, as
recommended by IEEE Standard 524.
Special steps must be followed to ensure the tension balance in the component conductors is maintained. Just beyond the region
where the factory-installed conductor bands are located, overlap the two lengths of T-2 conductor by approximately five feet.
With the two conductors held side by side, mark the corresponding component conductors where they will be cut. Cut one set
of corresponding conductors on their marks and splice together. Once this splice is completed, repeat the same with the other
corresponding component conductors. An additional twist may be needed before the second splice is made to remove any
looseness between the component conductors. See Figure 9 for an example of a spliced T-2 conductor.
Figure 9 - Example of a T-2 Conductor Splice
17

First Edition
Line taps are also used with the TransPowr T-2 conductor. Most accessory manufacturers have either hot line taps or parallel
groove connectors that can be used for electrical connections. Depending on the magnitude of the tap current, the line tap may be
made either off of just a single T-2 component conductor or be required to bridge across both conductors. Always make sure to
consult with the accessory manufacturer for the correct selection and installation procedure for the product. WARNING - Line taps
should never be installed on a twisted pair conductor product where the product has a very short twist length. With the shorter
twist length, the rotational oscillation movement of the conductor is more pronounced. The oscillation movement transfers into the
line tap, causing it to move, and may lead to mechanical fatigue and failure of the associated copper jumper wire.
8 INSTALLATION PULL RECORD

General Cable has prepared an Overhead Conductor Installation Pull Record document that utilities are encouraged to use.
This document is important as it provides a record of the installation equipment and pull parameters for each set-up. While
the document is mainly designed around the tension stringing method, it is adaptable for other installation methods. It is
encouraged to have the record completed and a copy retained for future reference. A copy of the document may be sent to
General Cable for the purpose of continuous improvement of this Installation Guide.
Contact a General Cable sales representative today and ask for a copy of the Overhead Conductor Installation
Pull Record document.
Information may be e-mailed to utilityspecengineers@generalcable.com or mailed to:
General Cable
Electric Utility Engineering
4 Tesseneer Drive
Highland Heights, KY 41076
Please be sure to include a name and telephone number that we can contact for further discussion concerning the
installation information.
9 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
The purpose of this installation guide is to provide suggestions for various methods, equipment and tools that have been
found practical based on reported field experience during the installation of General Cables TransPowr bare overhead
conductors. At this time, it is not intended to address the special installation details for composite-reinforced conductors,
expanded core conductors, or self-damping conductors (SDC). For additional assistance, please contact your General Cable
sales representative.
18
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19
Global Reach
General Cable, a leading wire and cable innovator for over 170 years, serves customers
through a global network of 57 manufacturing facilities in 26 countries and has worldwide
sales representation and distribution. The Company is dedicated to the production of
high-quality aluminum, copper and fiber optic wire and cable and systems solutions for the
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strong brand recognition and strengths in technology and manufacturing, General Cable is
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General Cable
4 Tesseneer Drive
Highland Heights, Kentucky 41076-9753
Telephone: 800.237.2726
Fax: 859.572.8072
Email: info@generalcable.com
www.generalcable.com
156 Parkshore Drive

Brampton, Ontario L6T 5M1
Telephone: 800.561.0649

905.494.5300
Fax: 800.565.2529
Email: infoca@generalcable.com
Form No. UTY-0062-0714

46337
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