The reality of generation and distribution of electric power, Part 2: the other face of ultrahigh voltage power transmission

In this sequel, I examine power transmission and consider some of the equipment and instruments. Transmission equipment starts with towers, pylons, conductors, accessories, such as insulators, connectors, and splicers, and I discuss their importance. Special attention is given to the voltage limiting effects of corona discharges. The pros and contras of power transmission with alternating current (ac) and direct current (dc) are discussed. Methods of generating ultra high voltages are brought into focus along with the principles of operation one needs to understand to deal with the equipment and instruments used in high voltage transmission. Part 1 of this series cov ered the background of electric power and its behavior in power lines and included explanations of the conductors, corona rings, and spacers.