Distribution Line Replacement

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course describes how to replace conductors in an existing overhead line with new conductors. The situation described is one that often occurs when it is necessary to increase the size of the conductors in a line. This course describes how to reconfigure pole framing in order to make room for the new conductors to be pulled in. It also shows how and where to set up equipment such as pilot lines, pulling rigs, and tensioners. This course also describes how to safely pull, sag, dead-end, and tie in the new conductors. Finally, you’ll see one way to energize the new conductors, transfer loads from the old line to the new line, and then safely remove the old conductors.

COURSE GOALS

• Describe how to plan a distribution line replacement job.

• Demonstrate how to isolate and remove the original conductors.

• Describe how to prepare buckarm, alley arm, and dead-end poles for a reconductoring job.

• Demonstrate how to set up equipment used to install pulling ropes.

• Demonstrate how to install pulling ropes.

• Describe how to ground conductors as they are pulled in.

• Demonstrate how to install replacement conductors.

• Demonstrate how to safely energize the new conductors.

• Demonstrate how to isolate and remove the original conductors.

SUBJECTS AND OBJECTIVES

Introduction

• Identify the basic tasks involved in most distribution line replacement jobs.

Pole Top Preparation

• Describe a procedure for preparing pole tops for a reconductoring job so that sufficient clearances are obtained for pulling in new conductors.

Installing Pulling Ropes

• Describe how to set up a pulling rig and a tensioner.

• Describe how to install pulling ropes.

Installing Conductors

• Describe a procedure for grounding conductors.

• Describe a procedure for installing conductors.

Energizing Conductors

• Describe a procedure for energizing new conductors.

• Describe a procedure for transferring the load from an old line to a new line.

Removing Conductors

• Describe a procedure for isolating conductors.

• Describe a procedure for removing conductors.