Arc control devices for use on all-dielectric self-supporting, optical cables

All-dielectric, self-supporting, optical cables can suffer from damage caused by dry-band arcing. This problem only occurs when the cables are strung on power lines whose system voltages are in excess of 150 kV, in areas which are subject to pollution which is conducting when wet, for example saline pollution. It is the aim of the paper to promote discussion, by proposing and subjecting to preliminary examination several devices which may be able to control the arcing which causes the damage. It is concluded that the study of such devices is worth pursuing.