Methodology for enhancing the performance of noninsulated overhead distribution lines

Abstract

Overhead distribution lines using bare conductors are easy to build, to maintain, do not require specialized labor and have the lowest cost. However, they are subject to accidental interruptions due to various causes including: vandalism, trees, kites and loss of cable characteristics. In order to face this situation, a methodology has been developed, named Methodology for enhancing the performance of noninsulated overhead lines development. The methodology consists in the identification of the circuits based on the events described above and the installation of LV spacers. In order to identify such circuits, we resorted to the database of the Corporate System named CONCOD, which stores the records of customer complaints related to failures of the electrical system, including accidental interruption of secondary transformer circuits and primary low-voltage branch lines. In possession of such data, we feed a database in an interactive form, where all occurrences and recurrent interruptions are monitored, allowing us to take the appropriate measures within a shorter period of time and to prevent future occurrences. This methodology can be applied to any distribution network using bare conductors, with no need of advanced technology, since the material employed (PVC tubes) is easy to find and does not require special equipment for installation.