Nonlinear Finite Element Approach to Simulate Wake-Induced Oscillation in Transmission Line Span Available to Purchase

Wake-induced oscillations (WIO) in transmission line bundle conductors are simulated using finite-element nonlinear formulation. This allows obtaining the conductor oscillations in the line spans equipped either with spacers or with spacer dampers. Within this approach, the interaction of subconductors due to the wake is represented using Simpson’s aeroelastic model. A special force element is created to introduce the aerodynamic loads due to the wake. The aeroelastic properties of the wake force field are tuned to meet the wake-induced instability properties as measured by Price. Extension of the wake interaction sample onto the full line span is done taking into account the inertia-stiffness properties of the line fittings (spacer dampers). It is emphasized that in WIO the ability of spacer (spacer damper) to transfer the loads and motions plays essential role. Thus, the transfer matrix logic to simulate the spacer, established by Diana, Rawlins and other researchers, is now transferred into the finite element model of WIO. Some important structural specifics of transmission line fittings are thus highlighted by the performed simulations. All these developments are introduced into the FE package SAMCEF Mecano. Results of a series of calculations are presented to illustrate the feasibility of the established model. Comparison of FEM simulations to the benchmarking field test data is presented.