Managing and minimizing friction is paramount for successful and safe long-span or multi-span overhead conductor pulling operations, as excessive friction can lead to conductor damage, over-tensioning, and equipment strain. Best practices include:

• Use High-Quality, Well-Maintained Stringing Blocks:

  • Proper Sizing: Always use stringing blocks with a sheave diameter appropriate for the conductor size and type (especially larger diameters for HTLS/ACCC).

  • Smooth Bearings: Ensure blocks have sealed, high-quality, free-spinning bearings to minimize rolling friction. Our blocks are designed with this in mind.

  • Cleanliness & Inspection: Regularly inspect blocks for dirt, debris, or damage to the sheave groove or bearings. Clean and lubricate as per manufacturer specifications.

  • Appropriate Liners: Use blocks with non-metallic liners (polyurethane, nylon) for sensitive conductors to prevent abrasion.

• Optimize Stringing Path and Setup:

  • Straightest Possible Pull: Plan the pulling operation to minimize the number and severity of angle structures, as bends significantly increase friction.

  • Proper Equipment Placement: Strategically locate pullers and tensioners to ensure a straight lead-in angle to the first stringing block, preventing unnecessary bending moments.

• Precision Tension Control: Our hydraulic pullers and tensioners offer precise, infinitely variable speed and tension control. This allows operators to maintain a smooth, consistent pull, preventing jerking or sudden load changes that can increase dynamic friction.

• Pre-stringing Reconnaissance: Thoroughly inspect the right-of-way for any potential ground obstructions or points where the conductor might inadvertently drag if the tension isn't maintained, especially in undulated terrain.

• Conductor Lubrication (Limited Cases): While not universally applied in overhead tension stringing, in specific scenarios or for certain conductor types, approved conductor lubricants might be used on the conductor surface to further reduce friction within the stringing blocks.

• Monitoring and Adjustment:

  • Real-time Tension Monitoring: Continuously monitor pulling tension via digital readouts on the pulling equipment to detect sudden spikes that indicate excessive friction.

  • Visual Inspection: Conduct continuous visual inspection along the line (via ground crews or drones) to identify any binding points or issues with stringing blocks.

By diligently applying these best practices and utilizing our advanced pulling equipment designed for low friction and precise control, you can ensure a smooth, safe, and efficient overhead conductor pulling operation, even over challenging long spans.