DISTRIBUTION LINE

WHAT IS DISTRIBUTION LINES?

• An electrical distribution system is a network that distributes

electrical power to homes, businesses, and other consumers.

• Carries electricity at a very low and safe level of about 220 volts.

• Distribution lines can be located overhead or underground.

COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

1. SUBSTATION
2. TRANSFORMER
3. CIRCUIT BREAKERS
4. DISTRIBUTION LINES
5. SERVICES LINES
6. DISTRIBUTION SWITCHGEAR
7. METER
8. PROTECTIVE DEVICES
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

1. SUBSTATION
Substations are critical nodes in the distribution
system, responsible for stepping down high-voltage
electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages
suitable for local distribution. They contain
transformers, switches, and various protective devices
to regulate and control the flow of electricity.
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

2. TRANSFORMER
Transformers are responsible for converting high
voltage to lower voltage or vice versa. They play a
crucial role in maintaining a safe and efficient voltage
level throughout the distribution system. There are two
main types of transformers: step-up transformers and
step-down transformers.
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

3. CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Circuit breakers are protective devices that
automatically interrupt the flow of electricity in case of
faults or overloads. They are essential for maintaining
the stability and safety of the electrical distribution
system.
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

4. DISTRIBUTION LINES
Distribution lines are the physical infrastructure that
carries electricity from substations to end-users. They
can be overhead, underground, or a combination of
both. Overhead lines are more common and cost-
effective but may be more vulnerable to
environmental factors and accidents.
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

6. DISTRIBUTION SWITCHGEAR
Distribution switchgear refers to a collection of
switches, fuses, and circuit breakers used to control
and protect the distribution system. They are essential
in isolating faulty sections and maintaining the
continuity of power supply.
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

7. METER
Electric meters are devices that measure and record
the amount of electricity consumed by consumers.
They are a crucial component for billing purposes and
monitoring energy usage.
COMPONENTS OF DISTRIBUTION LINE

5. SERVICES LINE
Service lines are the final connection between the
distribution system and the consumer’s premises.
These lines carry electricity from the distribution lines
to individual homes or businesses.
 AAC vs AAAC vs ACSR

AAC: All Aluminum Conductor Cable Characteristics

and Uses

AAC cables have pure aluminum stranded conductors with

an aluminum purity of 99,7 percent. These characteristics
of aluminum conductors mean that the cable is highly
corrosion-resistant.

The typical applications of the AAC aluminum cable are:

•Overhead power lines in coastal areas where cables are

subjected to corrosion.
•Railway and metro utility industries
•Power lines in cities and urban areas
 AAC vs AAAC vs ACSR

AAAC: All Aluminium Alloy Conductor Cable

Characteristics and Uses

AAAC utility wire has a conductor made of aluminum alloy

instead of pure aluminum. The particular grade of aluminum
alloy used in these cables is 6201-T81. This high-quality
alloy is up to national and international standards.

AAAC cable also has better sag attributes and a strength-to-

weight ratio than other transmission line cables. This cable
has superior mechanical resistance compared to different
types of distribution cables, which makes it suitable for
aerial ducts.

The corrosion resistance of these cables is better than ACSR

utility cables but worse than AAC wire.

•AAAC cables are typically used in overhead power lines

crossing the river and overhead power lines in cold areas.
Basically, they are used in places that are less subjected to
corrosion than where AAC cables are normally used.
 AAC vs AAAC vs ACSR
ACSR: Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced Cable
Characteristics and Uses

ACSR cables are cables with aluminum conductors reinforced

with steel. The conductors are made of aluminum but have a
reinforced steel core.

ACSR conductors have larger diameters than AAC and AAAC

ones, which positively impacts the corona effect. ACSR cable is
strong without compromising on ampacity. This is an excellent
characteristic for high-voltage and extra-high voltage power
lines.

Despite its strength, the steel in the ACSR cable is prone to

corrosion, so this cable is not used in humidity conditions.

ACSR cables are used in:

•Overhead power lines

•Overhead installations that cross the river
•Extra-long overhead installations
•Overhead power installations not located in urban and rural
areas
CONDUCTOR SIZE SELECTION IN THE DISTRIBUTION POWER SYSTEM

• Current carrying capacity of the conductor or

distribution line

• Allowable voltage drop or line regulation

• Breakdown strength of the conductor

• Load Requirement
CONDUCTOR SIZE SELECTION IN THE DISTRIBUTION POWER SYSTEM

•Current carrying capacity of the conductor or

distribution line
The current carrying capacity of a conductor decided by the maximum
conductor temperature rise or operating temperature. Operating temperature
is limited by mechanical aspects such as allowable span, mid-span sag,
joints, creep in conductors and long term mechanical efforts. Generally 85 oC
(AAAC), 75oC, 70oC, 65oC, or 60oC (ACSR) maximum operating temperature is
used. Lower temperature is used for long spot lines, particularly in rural
distribution system, where jumpers may give trouble at higher loading.
CONDUCTOR SIZE SELECTION IN THE DISTRIBUTION POWER SYSTEM

•Allowable Voltage drop and Voltage regulation

The allowable voltage drop is considered as critical factors in determining

the conductor size for 11kV and Low Tension (LT) distribution line with
thermal loading (ampere loading) about 80 percent of the normal thermal
rating based on the maximum operating temperature. Large conductor
size (cross section) employed in distribution lines reduces the resistance of
the line and hence the I2R losses and voltage drop in the line; and hence
voltage regulation of the line improves. But using large cross section
conductor size will increase the cost as the material required is more.
CONDUCTOR SIZE SELECTION IN THE DISTRIBUTION POWER SYSTEM

•Breakdwon strength of conductor

The choice of conductor size from mechanical view point depends on the :

External Loading: Wind speed, ice loading and ambient temperature.

Internal Characteristics: Stranding, modulus of electricity, thermal

expansion of the creep. For example, considering the creep and economics
AAC is used in LT distribution lines. The line characteristics includes
voltage regulation is influenced by distribution line parameters and
system frequency, current carrying capacity is assessed from the heat
balance (amount of heat generated and heat dissipated).
CONDUCTOR SIZE SELECTION IN THE DISTRIBUTION POWER SYSTEM

•Load Requirements

The electrical load demand of the distribution line must be

calculated based on the number of consumers, their usage
patterns, and the types of loads served (residential, commercial,
industrial, etc.).
Distribution Pole type
The supporting structures for overhead line
conductors are various types of poles and towers
called line supports. In general, the line supports
should have the following properties :
• High mechanical strength to withstand the
weight of conductors and wind loads etc.
• Light in weight without the loss of mechanical
strength.
• Cheap in cost and economical to maintain.
• Longer life.
• Easy accessibility of conductors for maintenance.
 HOW DO UTILITY POLES
WORK?
As power and communications companies compete to deploy services, utility
pole space is becoming increasingly valuable. Poles are divided into four zones:
● Supply space: The topmost area of a pole, the supply space houses
electrical supply services including high voltage wires and safety and
distribution equipment.
● Neutral space: This unused area separates electrical and communications
services. It also acts as a safety zone for linemen and communications
workers.
● Communications space: The lowest on the pole, this space contains facilities
like telephone, cable, broadband, and traffic signal control wiring.
● Ground clearance: Utility poles have minimum ground clearance limits that
vary based on electrical voltage and location.
 PARTS OF A UTILITY POLE
1. Primary power lines are located at the top of the 6. The transformer is the barrel-shaped device located
pole. They carry the majority of power and deliver near the top of the pole. It converts high-voltage
high-voltage electricity from a nearby substation to the electricity from the primary wires into usable, lower
transformer, which then lowers the voltage for voltage electricity that is carried by the secondary
everyday use by customers. wires and delivered to customers.
2. Insulators, which are typically made from glass, 7. Neutral wire, located beneath the transformer, the
porcelain, or rubber, safely support and connect the neutral wire serves as a path back to the substation
suspended wires to the pole. They prevent the flow of and balances the electrical load.
electricity between wires and through the pole into the 8. Secondary wires deliver low-voltage power to local
ground. homes and businesses.
3. Crossarm are long horizontal members that hold up 9. Cable & telephone wires These communications
and support the electrical wires. lines are the lowest and thickest wires on a utility
4. Cutouts are fused switches that are directly attached pole.
to the primary wires. If there is an electrical overload 10. Ground wire is a thin copper strand that runs the
or short circuit on the main distribution line, these entire length of the pole and into the ground. It
devices isolate the problem area instead of shutting provides a safe and direct path for excess electricity
down the entire system. to discharge, avoiding the risk of electrical shock or
5. Lightning or Surge arrestor protect electrical fire.
equipment from dangerous electric surges (e.g., 11. Ground molding is a protective piece of equipment
lightning strikes). These devices directly discharge that covers the ground wire and attaches it to the
high-voltage currents into the ground without pole.
disrupting the regular flow of electricity. 12. Guy wire is a tensioned cable that that secures and
stabilizes the free-standing pole.
DISTRIBUTION LINE
CONSTRUCTION
 Overhead Distribution Line
Overhead power lines are electrical transmission and
distribution lines that are installed above the ground on poles or
towers. They are a common method for transporting electrical
energy from power plants to substations and from substations to
homes, businesses, and industries.
These lines consist of conductors made of aluminum or
copper that carry high-voltage electricity from the source to the
end users.
Overhead power lines are a vital component of the electrical grid
infrastructure, enabling the efficient and widespread distribution of
electricity across various regions. They are typically used for long-
distance power transmission and can cover vast distances, making
them a cost-effective solution for delivering electricity to remote or
 Despite their importance in delivering electricity, overhead
power lines can pose certain challenges, including the risk of
damage from extreme weather conditions, such as storms, high
winds, and lightning strikes. Additionally, they can be susceptible
to disruptions from falling trees, animals, or human-made
obstructions.
To minimize these risks, some overhead power lines are
equipped with protective insulators, lightning arrestors, and other
safety features.
The construction is very simple. depending upon the phase
system, It consists of multiple not insulated conductors suspended
by poles or towers.
 Underground Distribution Line
While overhead lines have been ordinarily considered to be less
expensive and easier to maintain, developments in underground cables
and construction practices have narrowed the cost gap to the point
where such systems are competitive in urban and suburban residential
installations, which constitute the bulk of the distribution systems
The conductors used underground are insulated for their full
length and several of them may be combined under one outer
protective covering. The whole assembly is called an electric cable.
 In residential areas, such cables may be buried by themselves
by means of a plow or machine digging a narrow furrow. In commercial
or other congested areas, where maintenance repair or replacement of
the cables may be difficult, conduits or ducts and manholes may be
installed underground to contain the cable and other equipment
Distribution Pole Types

WOODEN STEEL
POLES POLES

RCC
POLES
WOODEN POLES
 Wooden poles:
These are made of seasoned wood (sal or chir) and are suitable for
lines of the moderate X-sectional area and of relatively shorter
spans, say up to 50 meters. Such supports are cheap, easily
available, provide insulating properties and, therefore, are widely
used for distribution purposes in rural areas as an economic
proposition. The wooden poles generally tend to rot below the
ground level, causing foundation failure.
In order to prevent this, the portion of the pole below
the ground level is impregnated with preservative compounds like
creosote oil. Double pole structures of the ‘A’ or ‘H’ type are often
used to obtain a higher transverse strength that could
be economically provided by means of single poles.
The main objections to wooden supports
are :

● The tendency to rot below the ground level

● Comparatively smaller life (20-25 years)

● Cannot be used for voltages higher than 20 kv

● Less mechanical strength and

● Require periodical inspection.

STEEL POLES
 Steel poles:
The steel poles are often used as a substitute for wooden poles.
They possess greater mechanical strength, longer life and permit
longer spans to be used. Such poles are generally used for
distribution purposes in the cities. This type of support needs to be
galvanized or painted in order to prolong its life.
 Three types of Steel Poles

Rail Poles Tubular Poles Steel Joints

RCC POLES
 RCC poles:
The reinforced concrete poles have become very popular as line
supports in recent years. They have greater mechanical strength,
longer life and permit longer spans than steel poles. Moreover, they
give a good outlook, require little maintenance and have good
insulating properties. The figure shows RCC poles for the single and
double circuit.
The holes in the poles facilitate the climbing of poles and at
the same time reduce the weight of line supports. The main
difficulty with the use of these types of electric poles is the high
cost of transport owing to their heavyweight. Therefore, such poles
are often manufactured at the site in order to avoid the heavy cost
of transportation.
Distribution Pole
Hardwares

Donn Jeanson
Barrios
Distribution Pole Hardware

Pole line hardware refers to the collection of components and

equipment used to support and connect power lines to utility
poles. These hardware items are designed to provide stability,
durability, and secure connections, ensuring the safe and
efficient transmission of electricity
Importance of Distribution Pole
Hardware
Pole line hardware is essential for several reasons:

• Structural Support: Pole line hardware provides support to utility

poles, enabling them to withstand the weight of power lines,
transformers, insulators, and other associated equipment.

• Safety and Reliability: Properly installed and maintained pole line

hardware ensures the safety of both the power lines and the workers
who maintain them. It minimizes the risk of power outages, accidents,
and equipment damage caused by severe weather conditions, such as
high winds and ice storms.

• Secure Connections: Pole line hardware facilitates the secure

connection of power lines, insulators, conductors, and other
components, reducing the risk of electrical faults and interruptions in
the power supply.
Classification of Distribution Pole
Hardware
• Anchoring Hardware
Used to secure distribution poles to the ground, providing stability
and preventing them from toppling over in adverse conditions.

• Line Hardware
Includes various fittings and connectors used to support and
attach power lines, insulators, and conductors to the poles. This category
includes clamps, brackets, crossarms, and suspension hardware.

• Guying Hardware
Used to provide additional support to distribution poles, especially
in areas with high wind loads or uneven terrain. Guying hardware
includes guy wires, guy brackets, and anchors.
Types of Distribution Pole Hardware
Products

• Steel Cross • Pole Top

Arm Bracket
• Secondary • Pole Top Pin
Rack • Secondary
• Stay Rod Clevis
• Anchor Rod • Socket Clevis
• Guy Thimble • Yoke Plate
• Ball Clevis • Pole Band
• Guy Clamp
Cross Arm
A steel cross arm is a horizontal
support beam made of high-
strength steel that is attached to a
distribution pole. It provides a
platform for attaching insulators
and supporting power lines. The
cross arm helps distribute the
weight of the power lines and
other equipment evenly across
the pole, enhancing stability and
ensuring proper line clearance.
Secondary
Rack
A secondary rack is a hardware
component used in power
distribution systems to support
and organize secondary power
lines. It is typically mounted on
utility poles and provides a secure
and organized pathway for
secondary conductors. The
secondary rack helps maintain the
proper spacing and separation of
secondary power lines, preventing
tangling and potential electrical
hazards.
Stay Rod
A stay rod, also known as a brace
rod or guy rod, is used to provide
additional support and stability to
utility poles. It is typically installed
diagonally from the pole to the
ground or an anchor point. Stay
rods help counteract the lateral
forces acting on the pole, such as
wind loads or uneven terrain,
preventing the pole from leaning
or toppling over.
Anchor Rod
An anchor rod is a long metal rod
that is securely embedded in the
ground or a concrete foundation.
It is used to anchor utility poles
and provide stability. The anchor
rod is typically attached to the
pole with a pole plate or a guy
bracket. By resisting the upward
and lateral forces, anchor rods
help keep the pole in an upright
position.
Guy Thimble
A guy thimble is a hardware
component used in guy wire
systems to provide a secure
connection between the guy wire
and the anchor point or guy
attachment on a utility pole. It is
typically made of metal and has a
looped shape that allows the guy
wire to pass through and form a
stable connection. The guy
thimble helps distribute the
tension forces along the guy wire
and prevents damage or slippage.
Ball Clevis
A ball clevis is a type of fitting
used to connect insulators,
conductors, or other hardware
components to a utility pole or
cross arm. It consists of a
spherical ball-shaped end and a
clevis pin. The ball clevis allows
for a wide range of motion and
rotation, enabling flexibility in the
attachment of various
components.
Guy Clamp
A guy clamp is a metal clamp
used to secure guy wires to utility
poles. It provides a reliable and
adjustable connection between
the guy wire and the pole. Guy
clamps are designed to withstand
high-tension forces and prevent
the guy wire from slipping or
becoming loose, ensuring the
stability and integrity of the guyed
pole.
Pole Top
Bracket
A pole top bracket is a hardware
component used to support
additional equipment, such as
transformers, streetlights, or
communication devices, on top of
a utility pole. It is typically
mounted on the upper section of
the pole and provides a secure
platform for attaching the
equipment.
Pole Top Pin
A pole top pin is a metal pin or
bolt used to secure insulators or
other hardware components to the
top of a utility pole. It is inserted
through holes or slots in the pole
and provides a stable connection
point for the attachment of
insulators or other fittings.
Secondary
Clevis
A secondary clevis is a fitting used
to connect secondary conductors
or service wires to insulators or
other hardware on a utility pole. It
allows for a secure and adjustable
connection between the conductor
and the hardware, ensuring proper
alignment and support.
Socket Clevis
A socket clevis is a type of fitting
used to connect insulators,
conductors, or other hardware
components to a utility pole or
cross arm. It features a socket-
shaped end that securely holds a
clevis pin, allowing for adjustable
connections and easy installation.
Yoke Plate
A yoke plate is a flat metal plate
with multiple holes or slots used
to connect and support insulators,
conductors, or other hardware
components on a utility pole. It
provides a sturdy and reliable
attachment point, allowing for
flexibility in the arrangement and
alignment of various components.
Pole Band
A pole band is an accessory that is
used for attaching secondary
racks to the poles. The secondary
racks are then used for supporting
other pole line fittings and even
the cables. A pole band is also
known as the pole fastener or a
fastening clamp.
Distribution Pole Hardware Materials
Pole line hardware is typically made from durable and corrosion-
resistant materials, including:

• Steel: High-strength steel is commonly used for its durability

and load-bearing capacity.

• Aluminium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminium is

often used for applications that require less strength.

• Fibreglass: Used for insulators and other non-conductive

components due to its excellent electrical and mechanical
properties.
Insulator
s BERCASIO, JOHN RALD B.
 INSULATORS
Insulators are materials that do not easily allow the
flow of electricity or heat through them. They have
high resistance to the passage of electrical current
or thermal energy, effectively preventing their
transfer. Examples include rubber, plastic, and
glass.

Insulators are used in electrical equipment to

support and separate electrical conductors without
allowing current through themselves.
TYPES OF INSULATORS
01 02 03 04
PIN TYPE STRAIN TYPE SUSPENSION LONG ROD

05 06 07 08
SHACKLE POST TYPE STAY TYPE GLASS
PIN TYPE INSULATOR

A pin type insulator is a

specific type of insulator commonly
used in electrical power distribution
systems. It consists of a cylindrical or
conical insulating body typically
made of porcelain or glass, mounted
on a metallic pin. The pin is usually
made of materials such as steel or
aluminum and is fixed onto a
supporting structure, such as a pole
or a crossarm.
POST TYPE INSULATOR

Post insulators are shaped like a

post or column and are usually a single
piece. They are mounted vertically or at a
slight angle on supporting structures. The
conductor is attached to one end of the
insulator, while the other end is attached
directly to the supporting structure. Post
insulators are used in both distribution and
transmission systems. Unlike suspension
insulators, which consist of multiple discs
connected in series, and long rod insulators,
which are single solid rods, post insulators
are usually a single piece with a uniform
structure.
STRAIN TYPE INSULATOR

These insulators are typically

installed in locations where the conductors
change direction, such as at dead-end points
or at corners where the line changes its
alignment. Strain insulators are designed to
withstand both the mechanical forces exerted
by the conductors (such as tension,
compression, and wind loads) and
environmental factors (such as moisture,
pollution, and temperature variations). They
are usually made of materials like porcelain,
glass, or polymer composites, which offer
high electrical resistance and mechanical
strength.
SUSPENSION TYPE INSULATOR

Suspension type insulators are

another essential component in overhead
power transmission systems. Like strain
type insulators, suspension insulators are
used to support and insulate electrical
conductors. Suspension insulators are
commonly used to hang overhead
conductors from supporting structures such
as transmission towers or poles. They are
particularly suitable for long spans of
transmission lines where the conductors are
subject to significant mechanical tension
due to their own weight and the forces
caused by wind and others.
LONG ROD INSULATOR

Long rod insulators are another type

of insulator commonly used in overhead
power transmission and distribution systems.
These insulators are typically installed
vertically or at a slight angle on supporting
structures such as transmission towers or
poles. Long rod insulators consist of a single,
solid insulating rod made of materials like
porcelain, glass, or polymer composite. Unlike
suspension or strain insulators, which are
composed of multiple discs or units
connected in series, long rod insulators are a
single piece.
SHACKLE TYPE INSULATOR

It consists of a single insulating

unit, often made of porcelain or polymer
composite material, with a metal fitting or
eyelet at each end. Shackle type
insulators are commonly used in
distribution lines where the voltages are
lower and the mechanical stresses are not
as high as those encountered in
transmission lines. They can be quickly
and easily attached to the conductor and
supporting structure using standard
hardware, such as bolts, nuts, and
washers. This makes them a cost-effective
solution for supporting conductors in
distribution systems.
STAY TYPE INSULATOR

is a type of insulator used in

electrical transmission and distribution
systems to support and insulate overhead
power lines. These insulators are typically
made of ceramic, glass, or composite
materials. The term "stay" refers to the
component of the insulator that provides
mechanical support to the power line,
helping to keep it in place and maintain its
position. Stay type insulators are often
used in situations where there is a need
for additional mechanical support due to
factors such as high wind loads or long
spans between support structures.
GLASS INSULATOR

is an insulator made
primarily of glass. It is a type of
insulator commonly used in
electrical power distribution and
transmission systems to support
and insulate overhead conductors
from the supporting structures,
such as poles or towers.
 PRIMARY
ASSEMBLIES
BERCASIO, JOHN RALD B.
SECONDARY
ASSEMBLIES
BERCASIO, JOHN RALD B.
Thank you.