How does the material and installation of the earth wire affect its protective function?

2025-08-13

The material and proper installation of the earth wire are crucial for its protective function. Earth wires are typically made of galvanized steel or aluminum-clad steel, chosen for their strength and durability. However, modern systems often use an Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), which combines the functions of a ground wire with the added benefit of housing fiber-optic cables for communication and data transmission.

From an installation standpoint, the earth wire's effectiveness depends on two main factors:

  1. Protective Angle: The angle between the vertical line through the earth wire and the line connecting the earth wire to the outermost phase conductor must be kept small (usually 20°-30°). This geometry ensures the phase conductors are shielded from lightning.

  2. Tower Footing Resistance: The resistance between the tower footing and the ground must be low. If resistance is high, a lightning strike's current may not dissipate quickly, potentially causing a "back flashover" from the tower to the phase conductors.

Our high-quality stringing equipment ensures that the earth wire is installed with the correct tension and sag, maintaining the crucial protective angle and contributing to the overall safety and reliability of the transmission line.

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