During the transmission line installation, choosing cables that can withstand environmental hazards such as storms, rain, etc., is imperative. Moreover, they should be strong enough to support the installation length.
Along with that, as a precautionary measure, you must check the product quality and tensility. Keeping all these factors in mind, the most used are OPGW cables. And, if someone looks for an alternative, then ADSS cables would be a suitable choice.
But, here, the query arises – which is better? OPGW or ADSS?
OPGW Cable – Optical Ground Wire
The manufacturing of these cables is based on two functions: an aerial conductor and an integrated fiber-optic unit. Here lies the difference – the aerial conductor protects the conductors from lighting.
Other than that, OPGW’s integrated fiber optics provide a telecommunication path for third-party communication, including internal ones. It is a dual-functioning cable and is a popular replacement for earth wires or traditional static wires. The OPGW hardware fittings are readily available and easy to install.
If we go by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) standard, it is also known as the optical fiber composite overhead ground wire. It is meant to combine the functions of grounding and communications. You can also use these cables when there is a dire need to change the existing ground wire that requires immediate replacement.
ADSS Cable – All-Dielectric Self-Supporting
These optical cables are strong enough to support the structure of transmission lines and are ideal for distribution. Moreover, it can withstand natural calamities and environmental hazards. This makes it a much better choice in comparison with other cables.
This is a non-metallic cable, and there is no requirement of lashing wires to support it externally. The major benefit is that you can place these cables in a conduit. The installation of the ADSS cables on the existing transmission line makes it cost-effective. Moreover, it is also independent of power lines and provides support through maintenance.
OPGW vs ADSS – Which is the difference?
OPGW (Optical Ground Wire)
Advantages for Overhead Transmission Lines:
Dual Functionality: OPGW serves both as a grounding wire and a communication medium, making it ideal for high-voltage overhead transmission lines.
Grounding: Provides a path for lightning strikes and fault currents, protecting the transmission line infrastructure.
Mechanical Strength: The metal components provide high tensile strength, which is essential for long spans and areas with high wind or ice loading.
Typical Applications:
High-Voltage Transmission Lines: OPGW is often used in new installations or upgrades of high-voltage transmission lines where both grounding and communication are necessary.
Existing Infrastructure: Suitable for upgrading existing lines where integration of grounding and communication is needed.
Challenges:
Installation Complexity: Requires power line shutdown during installation or maintenance, which can be logistically challenging and costly.
Safety: Handling near live power lines can be hazardous, necessitating careful planning and execution.
ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting)
Advantages for Overhead Transmission Lines:
Safety: Made entirely of dielectric materials, ADSS cables are safe to install near live power lines, eliminating the risk of electrical hazards.
Ease of Installation: Can be installed without shutting down the power lines, reducing operational disruptions and installation costs.
Flexibility: Suitable for various environments, including areas with high electromagnetic interference, due to its non-conductive nature.
Typical Applications:
Distribution Networks: ADSS is ideal for medium to low-voltage distribution networks where grounding is not a primary concern.
Communication Upgrades: Used in scenarios where existing power lines need to be upgraded with communication capabilities without disrupting power delivery.
Challenges:
Separate Grounding Required: Since ADSS does not provide grounding, additional solutions are needed for grounding, which may add to the complexity and cost.
Mechanical Strength: While ADSS has good mechanical properties, it may not be as strong as OPGW for extremely long spans or harsh environmental conditions.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect cables for overhead transmission lines might get confusing. Thus, you need to stick to the key aspects such as cabling designs, environment and installation cost. If you are dealing with new cables and have to construct the entire transmission system from scratch, then OPGW would be suitable.
However, if you are dealing with pre-existing cabling poles, ADSS would work best as outdoor cabling. So, grab the best quality cables and wire from GL FIBER, a trusted name in supplying ADSS and OPGW fittings for 20+ years.