Transmission line performance against lightning investigated using FLASH 1.81

A reliable transmission network is vital for the reliable supply of electricity to customers. One of the biggest causes of line faults is lightning. Queensland´s sub-tropical climate means there is a high level of lightning activity, and as nearly all of the high voltage transmission network is overhead, the lightning performance of lines is important. This paper describes the addition of a graphical user interface to a lightning performance program, FLASH 1.81, developed by IEEE. The paper is also intended to assist with making design decisions for new transmission lines and improving existing ones against lightning. The key parameters which affect performance are investigated using FLASH and recommendations are made on feasible design options.