Spatial Analysis of Thermal Aging of Overhead Transmission Conductors

This paper introduces a new methodology for spatial analysis of conductor thermal aging that can be performed at three different levels: point, line, and area. The methodology uses known characteristics of transmission conductors, along with load and weather data, to determine time series of conductor temperatures and corresponding thermal aging. Weather conditions can be obtained with high resolution, providing environmental conditions virtually at every point of a transmission system. This novel approach provides a complete spatiotemporal view of the thermal state of the system, bringing a whole new dimension to the research of thermal aging. All described types of aging analysis are important for effective transmission asset management, for scheduling of line maintenance or inspections, and for planning future transmission systems.