Distribution Assets Life Cycle Management Interest Group 2012 Projects

The new projects selected for the 2012 DALCM program are:

Project T124700-6005: Distribution Line Reliability Improvement Impacts On Upstream Equipment Life ....................................................................................................................................................2

Project T124700-6006: Assessment/Test Methodology Of In-Service Electrical Connectors For Overhead Lines...................................................................................................................................4

Project T124700-6007: Best Practices For A Risk-Based Approach To Vegetation Management Of Distribution Lines ...............................................................................................................................6

Project T124700-6008: Detection Of Unintentional Islanding On Distribution Systems ...........................8

Project T124700-6009: Leakage Current/Touch Potential Calculation And Test For Overhead Line Covered Conductors ......................................................................................................................... 10

Project T124700-5075c: Worker Protection On De-Energized Distribution Lines, Phase Iii..................... 11

Project T124700-5085b: Distribution System Phasing Using Ami And Dscada Information, Phase Ii ....... 13

Project T124700-6010: Data Acquisition And Monitoring Of Distribution Lines With High Resolution Satellite Images ................................................................................................................................ 14

Project T124700-6011: Distribution Roadmap Update ........................................................................ 15

Project T124700-6012: Composite Poles In Transmission & Distribution – Experience And Issues ......... 16

Project T124700-6013: Impact Of A Protective Coating Against The Effect Of Road Authority Chemicals And Atmospheric Pollutants On Different Assets Of The Distribution Network ..................... 17

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Project T124700-6005: Distribution Line Reliability Improvement Impacts On Upstream Equipment Life

Project Objectives: The primary objective of this project is to quantify equipment loss of life from through faults. The study should include a means to model the loss of life on each equipment type and for each fault event, providing a methodology to quantify the loss of life per “unit” of fault current for each general type of equipment. This model can then be utilized to project a “value” for proactive programs in order to eliminate D-Line fault sources, reduce fault durations and/or reduce fault current severities. The investigative work will also identify and provide recommendations for improvements to the design, construction and maintenance of distribution systems. These recommendations may be implemented by transmission operators and distribution operators to reduce both the number and severity of faults. The work will also note both the positive and negative effects that the different improvements will have on the reliability and availability of the system. Developing reliability/fault reduction models provide improvements in the life expectancy of the upstream equipment (substation transformers, substation breakers, reclosers, regulators, etc.). This project will attempt to assign a value to fault reduction through analytical modeling. As an end deliverable, this project should allow a utility to calculate loss of life for upstream equipment. Applicability could be for industry average equipment costing or utility specific costing to develop Net Present Value Calculations used for cost justification of distribution project improvements. The work will also identify improvements which can be made to the distribution system to increase the life expectancy of upstream equipment. (These “improvements” could have positive or negative consequences for existing customer reliability and should be documented accordingly). In response to the IFP Kinectrics is proposing the following: This project is intended to provide CEATI’s Distribution Assets Life Cycle Management Interest Group with a software model to assist with quantifying the loss of life per “unit” of fault current for each general type of equipment. The tool can be utilized for industry average equipment costing or utility specific costing to develop Net Present Value Calculations used for cost justification of distribution project improvement to eliminate D-Line fault sources, reduce fault durations and/or reduce fault current severities. Equipment such as the following will be included in the investigation:

Substation transformers

Substation breakers

Reclosers

Regulators Kinectrics would like to limit the scope to four (4) distribution components. From the utility survey, Kinectrics will determine the four (4) components that are of most interest to the utilities and will provide a model for the selected four (4) distribution equipment. Kinectrics is happy to include more distribution equipment in the model, but will require additional funding. The research and investigation will identify and provide recommendations for improvements to the design, construction and maintenance of distribution systems. More importantly, the tool should assist in extending the life expectancy of the upstream equipment. The recommendations provided by

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Kinectrics may be implemented by transmission operators and/or distribution operators in order to reduce both the number and severity of faults. Kinectrics will comment on both positive and negative effects that the different improvements will have on the reliability and availability of the system. Improvements include, but not limited to:

Delay reclosure of breakers and reclosers

Limit the number of recloses to one to reduce the number of fault events on a per fault basis

Use HRC (Current Limiting Fuses) on distribution equipment located close to the substation

Reduce the number of faults on the distribution line by trimming trees, increasing conductor spacing in ice prone or high wind areas, upgrading of D-Line system protection, worst performing circuit remediation, deteriorated OH/UG conductor replacement, transformer conversion from completely self-protected to fused conventional

Additional distribution system improvements (including costs) that could be implemented. Project Benefits: The results of the study will provide a means of:

Quantifying loss of life on equipment due to through faults

Identifying improvements that can be made to the distribution system in order to mitigate line faults

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Project T124700-6006: Assessment/Test Methodology Of In-Service Electrical Connectors For Overhead Lines

Project Objectives: The objectives of this project will be to develop non-destructive assessment and test methods to determine the condition (mechanical and electrical) of in-service connectors. The methodology should prove useful for decision makers in determining necessary connector replacement, ensuring safety requirements, and evaluating overall reliability and cost effectiveness. The study will review and evaluate best practices for non-destructive assessment and test methods related to connector conditions. Connector performance (mechanical and electrical) should also be reviewed for replacement decisions. Connectors under consideration for the study shall include:

Connectors under tension

Current or non-current carrying connectors used in overhead lines (such as dead-end connectors)

Splices, including clamp/compression/automatic types The project will also include a review of mechanical and electrical deterioration/failures due to electrical current, corrosion, vibration and other operating conditions. Additionally, a study and recommendation for best practices should be made and include a market search of test instruments and a cost comparisons for the various assessment/test methods. Technologies such as infrared imaging, heat guns, x-ray and others may be explored if applicable. In response to CEATI’s IFP, Powertech Labs is proposing to undertake a study to review electrical connector assessment practices currently employed by utilities as well as other potentially applicable methods described in technical literature. Powertech’s technical team will leverage their extensive experience in condition assessment, failure analysis, reliability evaluation and testing of overhead connectors in order to evaluate potential in situ connector inspection methods. The identified methods will be rated based on verification testing and appropriate criteria and recommendations will be made regarding their use and potential effectiveness. An effective connector assessment method would allow the utility asset management engineer to conduct quantitative condition assessment and make cost-effective and timely replacement, thereby mitigating the risks of connector failure. An effective connector inspection method would benefit the safety, reliability and maintenance of the overhead system. The proposed scope of the project will include the following key tasks and corresponding reports will be submitted as deliverables of the project: Task 1: Identify most common connector types and features Task 2: Identify failure modes and causes Task 3: Literature review of the state-of-the-art connector condition assessment methods Task 4: Survey of participating utilities’ practices and testing methodologies currently utilized Task 5: Methodology Evaluation, Rankings and Recommendations Task 6: Evaluation of the most promising inspection methods. Includes Lab and Field testing on BCHydro System. 1) Review and identification of failure mechanism and attributes specific to each type of connector. 2) Utility survey of current connector condition assessment and replacement practices.

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3)Technical literature review of potential testing methods applicable to connector condition assessment. 4) Evaluation of identified methods and testing of selected methods for the purpose of verification. 5) Recommendations including the summary of the findings, recommendation of the most effective assessment approach, equipment and procedures, supported by verification results. Project Benefits: Electrical connectors used in overhead lines often become the weakest link in the overhead electrical path and the load transfer due to their deterioration or improper installation. Connectors will occasionally fail in service prior to replacement, which often results in the hazardous situation of a live, high voltage conductor falling on the ground. Blanket replacement of connectors is labor intensive, often involves live line work and might not be practical. Therefore, there are safety, reliability and financial implications associated with in service failure of connectors as well as with unnecessary replacement of functional connectors. This research project will provide utilities with an evaluation, ranking and recommendation for the inspection techniques that can be used to assess the condition of in service electrical connectors giving quantitative evaluation of their condition. This will allow for planning of timely replacement of deteriorating connectors, thereby reducing the risks and cost of in service failures or premature replacements.

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Project T124700-6007: Best Practices For A Risk-Based Approach To Vegetation Management Of Distribution Lines

Project Objectives: The objective of this project is to identify best practices for strategic vegetation management on distribution ROWs from a strategic perspective to manage risk and cost. The study would provide recommendations on how utilities can most effectively survey, audit, plan and justify vegetation management surrounding distribution ROWs. The scope of this project shall include a literature review and utility survey to gather information regarding vegetation management of distribution ROWs. The review will also include applicable industry regulations and standards (government or otherwise, such as FAC-003-1 the NERC standard for vegetation management and ANSI A300 part 7 -2006 IVM, if applicable for distribution lines). The review and survey should define vegetation related risks and how they are managed specifically:

How do utilities define vegetation related risks?

How do utilities measure vegetation related risks and at what granularity?

What programs are employed to mitigate vegetation related risks and what are the maintenance standards for those programs?

How do utilities measure impacts of investment in vegetation management on related risk factors?

ECI’s approach to the requested scope of services will build upon our experiences gained through various distribution-related consulting and research projects for utility clients in North America and the United Kingdom. To meet project objectives, ECI proposes a thorough literature review and a study of current vegetation management practices utilized on distribution ROW’s in North America by the participating CEATI consortium. The analysis for this report will consist of these main components:

1. A review of current literature relating to vegetation management focusing on distribution risk management and cost.

2. A review and summary of the current standards and regulatory requirements for distribution vegetation management that affect the CEATI consortium members in North America. Most distribution vegetation management regulatory requirements are promulgated by state agencies within the U.S. and by Provinces within Canada. Major regulatory themes will be highlighted and categorized based upon risk and cost impacts and further utilized in the analysis of the survey portion of the study.

3. A review of key vegetation management strategies currently in use by the participating consortium members to manage risks. This will be conducted utilizing a survey of CEATI consortium members in North America. The survey will be focused on identifying how utilities define vegetation related risks, measure the risks, mitigate those risks through specific program strategies, quantify cost drivers, and justify program strategy. A follow-up interview of selected survey participants will be performed as necessary to clarify or further define the survey results.

ECI proposes a two-phase approach to identifying best practices for developing strategic risk-based distribution vegetation management plans. Phase 1 includes a review of current literature relating to vegetation management focusing on distribution risk definition, vegetation risk measurement, risk mitigation programs and standards, and measurements of success as they pertain to surveying, auditing, planning, and program justification. Included will be a review and explanation of the current vegetation management regulations and laws pertaining to the participating CEATI consortium members and the impacts they may have on their vegetation management policies and practices.

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In Phase 2, ECI will conduct a survey of participating CEATI consortium members in North America to determine what distribution vegetation management practices are currently in use to manage risks to their system. The survey will follow-up with one-on-one phone interviews of participants as necessary to clarify and refine survey results. Survey results will be summarized for use in a one-day workshop by a group of vegetation experts to develop “best practices” as defined by the expert consensus for surveying/auditing, planning and program justification. The final deliverable will include these recommended best practices for vegetation management program strategy development on distribution ROW’s and a presentation to CEATI consortium members. Project Benefits: ECI will prepare a final report that provides a comparison of current mitigation strategies and practices and include recommendations for “best practices” as defined by the panel of experts, including the use of IVM approaches if applicable, in the management of distribution vegetation from a strategic perspective to best manage both risk and cost.

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Project T124700-6008: Detection Of Unintentional Islanding On Distribution Systems

Project Objectives: The first objective of this proposed study is to thoroughly document, review, and critically evaluate (1) today’s anti-islanding requirements imposed in the pertinent standards, such as IEEE 1547, and (2) the islanding detection techniques that are currently available. The advantages and disadvantages of each islanding detection technique will be brought out. Of particular interest are local techniques as they are generally less expensive than remote techniques. However, local techniques are only a viable option if it can be shown that they work reliably. Effectively, each local technique has a Non-Detection Zone (NDZ), which might be substantially reduced, or even brought to zero, if a combination of local techniques with non-overlapping NDZs is employed. The documentation and review of the islanding detection techniques will be performed through a literature search. From our experience, the local islanding techniques that are proposed in the literature have a tendency to be tested under somewhat idealistic conditions and, consequently, their efficiency is often overstated. In our critical review, we will discuss scenarios for which the proposed islanding detection techniques are likely to not detect an existing island or produce a false trip (e.g., a system disturbance causes the technique to report an island even though the system is not islanded). Note that the assessment of islanding techniques through simulations and the development of new islanding detection techniques are not within the scope of this proposed project and are reserved for future phases. The second objective of this proposed study is to provide an outlook on how smart grid technology can be used in the future to facilitate islanding detection. Smart grid technology offers a new opportunity in that it introduces an information layer about the state of each DG unit in the system AND the state of the system. The fundamental issue with the DG technology today is that the DG has only a very limited view of the system, that is, it only measures the voltage and current at the DG terminals. Smart grid technology would include a standardized information layer that yields information about the overall system state and events such as loss-of-mains. Loss-of-mains would be communicated to the DG and trigger the desired action, such as the disconnection of the DG. The main difference to already existing communication-based islanding detection techniques is that the smart grid technology is expected to be included in future DG units as ‘default’ and, consequently, expensive dedicated islanding detection equipment would become unnecessary. Task 1: Review and Discussion of Anti-Islanding Standards and Techniques In this task, a comprehensive search of published and unpublished research, standards, case studies, and other sources will be performed. The search will focus on the following aspects:

General information about utility concerns related to unintentional islanding.

General information about intentional islanding (microgrids).

Review of the pertinent existing standards (IEEE 1547, UL 1741, IEC 62116).

Documentation and discussion of all types of islanding detection techniques. Task 2: Outlook on the Future of Islanding Detection This task focuses on answering the following questions related to the future of islanding detection:

What is likely to change in future revisions of the standards, in particular IEEE 1547?

What are the opportunities smart grid technology offers for islanding detection?

Documentation of pertinent smart grid technologies and communication protocols.

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Task 3: Recommendations for Future Research and Next Steps The Task-1 and Task-2 findings will be synthesized to identify knowledge gaps and propose future research on the subject of islanding detection. A work plan for a future research project will be developed. Project Benefits: The project will result in a comprehensive guide that will (1) inform utilities about concerns related to islanding on distribution systems, (2) inform utilities about what islanding detection techniques are available today, and (3) prepare the utilities for the smart grid evolution of DG by giving them an outlook on how smart grid technologies can be used to facilitate islanding detection. The long-term benefit to the utilities is that this study will set the stage for future research projects related to islanding detection. Future research projects would follow-up on the findings of this study in that (1) the efficiency of a combination of existing localized islanding detection algorithms would be assessed, (2) new localized islanding detection algorithms would be developed, and (3) the effectiveness and feasibility of the future smart grid technologies for islanding detection would be assessed through simulations.

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Project T124700-6009: Leakage Current/Touch Potential Calculation And Test For Overhead Line Covered Conductors

Project Objectives: In this project, it is proposed to investigate the magnitude of the capacitive leakage current (CLC) and touch potential of covered conductors when they are in contact to an object like human body. This project suggests studying the CLC and touch potential of covered conductors from safety point of view. The work covers both calculation and testing. This study is conducted to cover details of current calculation in the occasion of contact with the sheath. The calculation will be empirical and if necessary numerical (electric field simulation software). If follows by performing tests on 3 different spacer cables in the high voltage lab to measure the touch potential and leakage current in the event of sheath contact. Laboratory test can verify the accuracy of the calculations. This will try to:

Give comments on the risk of injury by contacting a spacer cable or covered conductor.

Suggest a minimum insulation thickness required based on the limit of the CLC and touch potential. This limit may not be practical for manufacturer.

Provide a calculation method for CLC and touch potential of single-phase and three-phase covered conductor (with known length, voltage class, and sheath thickness). This method is verified by testing.

A literature review has to be performed for allowable leakage current that body can handle. For example IEEE Std 957 suggests using 2 mA thresholds. Other available references will be used for this purpose. The proposed work includes

1. Comprehensive literature review of allowable leakage current and touch potential for IEEE standards and other organizations.

2. Select 3 different types of Spacer Cable/Covered Conductor that are most commonly used by utilities (common size, voltage class….) which needs direction from utilities involved in this project.

3. Calculate the conductor capacitance and stray capacitance and calculate surface charges. Calculate the touch potential and leakage current passing through body in case of contact (human (men, women, child), animals) The calculation is preferably analytical and can be verified by numerical simulation (electric field simulation)

4. Obtain 20 to 100ft of each of the selected conductors and performing test at the Kinectrics High Voltage Lab to apply the rated voltage, and to measure the touch potential and CLC. The CLC to be measured by simulating body with resistors.

5. Compare calculation, test, and allowable limits, comment on cable design parameters based on the limits.

6. Discuss the results; give suggestions from safety point of view for selecting parameters like insulation thickness.

7. Provide CLC/touch potential method for covered conductors.

Project Cost: The total cost of this project is $85,000 CAD. The contractor is Kinectrics and the principle investigator is Ali Naderian.

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Project T124700-5075c: Worker Protection On De-Energized Distribution Lines, Phase Iii

Project Objectives: Project 5075b investigated the effectiveness of protective grounding schemes in protecting linemen from accidental energization and other electrical hazards. Selected conclusions of the 5075b study and the discussion during the review process of the study are listed below. The future research resulting from these conclusions and proposed in this document are included. Note that the 5075b study identified accidental energization as the electrical hazard for which it is most difficult to select protective grounding that provides safe working conditions and consequently the focus of the proposed study is on accidental energization. The work will be completed in a 7 task approach:

Task 1) Literature review Task 2) Investigate effectiveness of a pole band Task 3) Investigate effectiveness of different grounding methods Task 4) Experimental investigation of temporary grounding configurations (optional task) Task 5) Experimental investigation of pole and pole-connection impedances (optional task) Task 6) Case Studies Task 7) Update Spreadsheet Calculator

Project Benefits:

Updated literature review: This document will be useful to the utilities in that it provides information on the most recent research done in this area, which will help the utilities to make informed decisions regarding protective grounding practices. Also, the basic information documented during this effort (use of multiple ground rods, how do ground resistance meter work, etc.) will help educate junior personnel.

Effectiveness of Pole band: o The benefits to the utilities will be that a better understanding of the pole band

interaction with the rest of the protective grounding circuit will avoid the ineffective uses of pole bands and ensure that utilities always use pole bands effectively.

o Utilities may consider changing their practices on pole band installation and install a pole band at the optimal pole location to maximize the effectiveness of the pole band. This would provide safer working conditions for linemen and may also save the utility money since other, more expensive, means to meet the utility’s safety standards may not be necessary.

o Utilities that use non-insulated neutral connections will be informed on the effect of this connection on the effectiveness of protective grounding and whether or not such a connection is at least equivalent (if not preferred) to using a pole band. If our study shows that this is the case, then other utilities that use insulated neutral connections may consider switching to non-insulated neutral connections to improve worker safety.

Protective grounding methods: The benefits for the utilities will be that the utilities will be able to assess whether or not a safe grounding method that is practical and economical feasible exists. This will ensure informed decisions regarding how to achieve sufficient worker safety in problematic situations such as the absence of low-resistance ground connections.

Experimental investigation of temporary grounding configurations: Utilities will save money because line technicians will be able to work more efficiently by being able to make informed decision on whether or not a desired ground resistance can be reached and, if so, which ground configuration to select to reach the desired ground resistance. Furthermore, the study will compare grounding resistances measured by (1) easy-to-use clamp-on meters and (2) less-convenient and more time consuming (but supposedly more accurate) fall-of potential meters.

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Based on this comparison, the utilities will be able to make a decision if the added accuracy of fall-of-potential meters justifies the more cumbersome measurement.

Experimental investigation of pole and pole-connection impedances: The acquired data will remove many uncertainties regarding the simulation input parameters and will greatly increase the confidence in the simulation results, since the simulation results would be based on measured input parameters.

Case studies: The case studies will illustrate the concepts discussed in the report and conclusions of the report thereby making them more understandable to the reader.

Excel spreadsheet calculator: The calculator will be updated. It is a useful tool that allows them to assess the effectiveness of various grounding methods in protecting line technician from accidental energization. The tool will be suitable for situations in which a grounded neutral conductor is present and for situations in which the ground path is only provided by temporary ground rods. A Graphical User Interface will be added to the spreadsheet calculator to enhance the user-friendliness of the program. The proposed update to the Excel spreadsheet calculator will enhance its capability by being able to properly account for the grounding methods when evaluating the shock hazard during accidental energization.

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Project T124700-5085b: Distribution System Phasing Using Ami And Dscada Information, Phase Ii

Project Objectives: The proposed study is Phase 2 of the CEATI DALCM project 5085 “Distribution System Phasing Using AMI and DSCADA Information”. The scope of this study is to re-conduct the previous analysis using data with higher precision than the data that were used during the first phase of this project and analysis two or three additional feeders. Southern Company’s Blue Lake Feeder BL2256 will be re-modeled with comprehensive AMI data provided by Southern Company. The AMI voltage measurement precision should be at least 0.1 volt. The AMI interval demand measurement precision should be at least 0.1 kW. If the results of this analysis are promising then the BCSE method will be tested with two or three more feeder circuits from Southern Company. Southern Company is expected to provide the CYME model and AMI data for all feeders in a format similar to what was provided for BL2256 during phase 1 of the this study. This analysis will validate the use of BCSE algorithm for meter phase identification. If the developed technique proves to be successful in identifying meters that have been associated with the wrong phases, then we will recommend upgrading the “research grade” software used for this project to “production grade” thereby providing the utilities with a user-friendly platform for more applications in the future and leveraging the OpenDSS software and the BCSE method. This task would be executed in the next phase, i.e., Phase 3, of this project.

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Project T124700-6010: Data Acquisition And Monitoring Of Distribution Lines With High Resolution Satellite Images

Project Objectives: The objective is to determine specific applications for high-resolution satellite imagery for the purpose of managing distribution line assets and data acquisition. The focus will be on those areas identified in project 3229 as having a high to medium potential for success as they relate to distribution lines, i.e., visual inspections, vegetation management, GIS data capture and record validation and 3D imagery. The objective also includes verifying the potential of EO satellite technology for additional items (not covered in project 3229) including surveying; replacement of helicopter or walking D-Line inspections; capacity projects prioritization based on satellite build-out surveys; checking fuses out on cap banks; outage scouting, damage assessment; verification of work complete; audit of work for quality compliance; danger tree surveys; and LiDAR type analysis via a satellite. Project Benefits: Based on the satellite information of the right of way and line details, an assessment will be made on the suitability of using the high-resolution data to manage distribution line assets. The assessment will include, but not be limited to the following asset management aspects:

1. Determination of vegetation type, health and risk to the system and whether the information can be used to support a NERC compliance audit;

2. Location and condition of right of way features, e.g., culverts, streams, bridges, access routes, trails, parks, water crossings, etc.;

3. Identification and inspection of line details, e.g., structure type, structure elevations, conductor elevations, aerial markers, leaning structures, switch location and type, etc.;

4. Capture of GIS data and suitability of using satellite imagery data versus field survey information.

This work has the potential to provide distribution utilities with new technologies that will improve efficiencies and reduce cost in the management of existing transmission line assets.

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Project T124700-6011: Distribution Roadmap Update

Project Objectives: Through 2004‐2008, Doug Houseman was the lead author of four (4) reports for CEATI. These four (4) reports comprise the series “The Distribution Utility Technology Roadmap 2025”. The reports have been used by many utilities around the world and helped jump start the movement to Smart Grid. Almost every major report on Smart Grid since has quoted these reports or used them as a starting point to proceed from. The reports are now suffering from the acceleration they have caused. Much of the data has been superseded by events in the real world. The goal of this project is to refresh the material in the reports, either by adding a fifth report or better yet, updating the three (3) reports that are part of 505 7 (volumes A, B, and C). This is a large undertaking, but one well worth doing. To this end, EnerNex, LLC (EnerNex) proposes to subsidize the work that needs to be done on updating the reports. The updates will cover technology, terminology, drivers, process, applications and lessons learned. It will add more emphasis on security, something that was poorly covered in the original reports.

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Project T124700-6012: Composite Poles In Transmission & Distribution – Experience And Issues

Project Objectives: In this investigation the project centers on fundamental issues that each in itself afflict the cost effective and reliable use of composite poles, cross arms and braces in low and high voltage applications. Specifically the goals and objectives of the project are:

Identify and document construction, operational, and maintenance experiences associated with composite poles, cross arms, and braces used in low and high voltage facilities;

Solicit and document feedback from manufacturers and vendors of composite poles, cross arms, and braces as to maintenance and operational and performance issues raised by utilities as well as how these issues were addressed; Obtain the testing requirements manufactures presently use for composite structures.

Investigate and document financial and operational benefits that have been realized by utilities that implemented the use of composite poles, cross arms, and braces.

Project Benefits: Once completed, the project will provide utilities with specific data and information to evaluate and manage inspection, maintenance and operational experiences as well as requirements associated with the use of composite poles, cross arms and braces. The availability of this information will permit utilities that have not used composite materials to implement the use of these materials and technologies in a structured and organized fashion with clear expectations as to the benefits and performance associated with composite poles, cross arms and braces in low and high voltage applications. Additional benefits are associated with the creation of a consistent and comprehensive structure to permit an interest group of utilities to capture future engineering and design, construction, maintenance, and operational issues as part of a centralized knowledge exchange which would build on the information gathered as part of this project. This knowledge exchange would permit all participating utilities to identify and remedy issues in an organized fashion in close collaboration with manufacturers and vendors.

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Project T124700-6013: Impact Of A Protective Coating Against The Effect Of Road Authority Chemicals And Atmospheric Pollutants On Different Assets Of The Distribution Network

Project Objectives: Validate and assess the effectiveness of protective coatings that are in use or in development against degradation and/or corrosion of Distribution &Transmission equipment caused by the chemicals used for de-icing roads Project Benefits: Phase I will consist of a review of the different types of road de-icing products and procedures. In conjunction with this activity a survey with the different utilities will be carried out in order to assess their experiences of equipment problems associated with the use of de-icing chemicals. In addition a review will be carried out to detail current products available as well as research being carried out in the field of protective coatings. The project would be divided into 2 phases, with the first phase of the project focusing on a review of current available products as well as what alternatives are currently being researched. The second stage will look at using different coatings that could protect the equipment against adhesion of de-icing compounds. In this stage, adhesion of de-icing salt on different equipment will be measured. Also, the effect of these contaminations on the different properties of the equipment like electric insulation and mechanical strength will be looked at with and without coatings. Finally, self-cleaning ability through rain and/or snow will be studied comparing equipment with and without a protective coating.