Modeling of UHV and Double-Circuit EHV Transmission-Line Exposure to Direct Lightning Strikes

Abstract

This paper comprises the first systematic investigation into the factors that render ultra-high voltage and double-circuit extremely high voltage transmission lines more vulnerable to direct lightning strikes by shielding failure. Such lines are typically characterized by one or more of the following features: massive conductor bundles, extreme conductor heights, and exceptionally high operating voltage. The model addresses the effects of the upward connecting leader onset of conductor proximity, ground field due to cloud charges prior to negative leader descent, positive space-charge generation at ground wires, as well as the operating voltage during the positive half cycle. It has been found that such factors have significant effects on the lateral attractive distance of both conductor bundles and ground wires. An agreement between model findings and field experience is found to be generally satisfactory.