Cathode Ray Oscillograph Study Of Artificial Lightning Surges on the Turners Falls Transmission Line

A portable impulse generator delivering 400 kv. has been constructed. A cathode ray oscillograph of the cold cathode type has been so connected that impulses incoming over the transmission line to which it is connected will initiate the oscillograph. The results of studies on a 5.77-mi. section of a 66-kv. line of the Turners Falls Power Company are given. Impulses of definite forms are applied to the line. The theory of traveling waves is being checked experimentally, demonstrating the existence and magnitude of reflections, both for open ended lines and for lines closed through gaps or a combination of inductance and capacity. A simple description of the theory is given. Some preliminary results are given for attenuation obtained by successive reflections from either end of the line. The reduction of the incoming waves by an oxide film lightning arrester is given, the affected wave in one case having a front of six microseconds and in another case a front of 0.5 microseconds. Further work to be done includes the effect of traveling waves on choke coils, transformers, and ground wires. Additional work is to be done to determine the laws governing attenuation.