OPGW Installation in Energized Transmission Line

Although the installation of OPGW (optical ground wire) in existing transmission line has often been carried out by power transmission companies worldwide, power system operators has been imposing restrictions to the planned outages of the transmission lines. Because of this, the power transmission companies have opted for the OPGW stringing with energized transmission lines. A quite safe and productive methodology called "carrier" was adopted. The method consists in using a self-propelled carrier that slides on existing grounding wire, while pulling an aramid rope and positioning several double pulleys. The OPGW gets strung by pulleys and then replaces the existing ground wire. This paper describes the experience of several OPGW stringing, including methodology and tools used, advantages and main results achieved. Additionally, it shows how team training was conducted and security measures undertaken