Rational design equations for the aeolian vibration of overhead power lines

A somewhat novel approach is presented in this paper to predict, analytically, the vortex-induced vibration (i.e. Aeolian vibration) of an overhead power line´s single conductor due to wind. An analytical solution is derived to the basic problem of the Aeolian vibration of a conductor span with equivalent supports on both ends by using the energy balance principle as well as the semi-empirical equations for the wind power input and the self damping of a conductor. A wind´s turbulence effect may also be taken into account by using a previously found analytical solution. Simple, pragmatic design equations are established for undamped conductor spans by curve-fitting the numerical data from analytical solutions. The result of this paper may serve as a link between complicated numerical models and often overly simplified pragmatic design practices.