Wind cooling effect on dynamic overhead line ratings

Due to deregulation of the power supply industry and the continuing need for network expansion, there is pressure to maximise utilisation of the existing transmission and distribution networks. A way of achieving this is to employ dynamic line ratings instead of the present static line ratings based on conservative weather assumptions. Such an approach is especially beneficial in areas of significant wind generation. In dynamic line rating methodologies, both the line loading and weather conditions are major contributors to a conductor´s temperature. The effects of Joule heating and wind speed have been examined using a section of `Lynx´ 175 mm² conductor in a wind tunnel under controlled environmental conditions.