A novel approach for wind tunnel modelling of transmission lines

Abstract This paper is concerned with the behaviour of transmission line cables in severe boundary layer winds. It examines the effect of the scale of turbulence on the response of a line-like structure (cable model) through wind tunnel tests and the comparison of wind tunnel tests with theoretical predictions made through the statistical method using influence lines. Consistency with theory allowed the development of a new modelling approach to conductor systems using a distorted horizontal length scale (span wise) to accommodate these systems in the wind tunnel. Transverse and oblique wind incidences were tested. From the results obtained in the experimental work, it is apparent that the new modelling approach to conductor systems in wind tunnels is a valid technique. It is necessary, however, that a correction be made in the values of the variance of the response measured in the distorted model.