While main power conductors are primary, several other critical elements are routinely strung on power lines, each with unique stringing considerations:

• Overhead Ground Wire (OHGW) / Shield Wire:

  • Purpose: Located at the very top of transmission and often distribution towers/poles, this wire provides lightning protection, shielding the main conductors from direct strikes. It's typically connected to ground at each structure.

  • Stringing Considerations: Often strung simultaneously with the main conductors or as a separate initial pass. Requires robust stringing blocks and tensioning, though typically less stringent sag control than phase conductors, as its primary role is protective.

• Optical Ground Wire (OPGW):

  • Purpose: A modern type of overhead ground wire that incorporates optical fibers within its core. It serves the dual purpose of lightning protection and providing high-speed fiber optic communication channels for grid control, monitoring, and even commercial data.

  • Stringing Considerations:

    • Extreme Care: The fiber optic core is highly sensitive to bending, crushing, and twisting. Stringing blocks with extra-large diameters and very gentle, non-abrasive liners (e.g., specialized polymers) are mandatory to prevent micro-bends or damage to the fibers.

    • Precise Tension Control: Requires very accurate tensioning to avoid exceeding the fiber's tensile strength limits. Our hydraulic tensioners are ideal for this precision.

    • Anti-Twisting Swivels: Critical at pulling points to prevent any torsional stress from reaching the OPGW.

• ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) Fiber Optic Cable:

  • Purpose: A standalone fiber optic cable that is completely non-metallic and designed to be self-supporting between structures. Used for communication purposes, often co-located with power lines but not providing electrical grounding.

  • Stringing Considerations: Similar to OPGW, ADSS is highly sensitive to tension, bending, and crushing. Specialized stringing blocks with large diameters and smooth, non-metallic liners are essential. Specific sag and tension charts must be followed to ensure the cable's integrity and long-term performance.

• Messenger Wire (for bundled secondary/communication cables):

  • Purpose: A high-strength steel or aluminum wire used to support multiple smaller power cables (e.g., secondary distribution lines to homes) or communication cables, often found in bundled configurations on distribution poles.

  • Stringing Considerations: The messenger wire itself is tensioned, and the other cables are then attached to it. Requires appropriate tensioning equipment for the messenger and specialized rollers/hangers for attaching the bundled cables.

Our comprehensive product range includes all the specialized tools and equipment, from high-precision pullers and tensioners to the full array of application-specific stringing blocks and accessories, necessary for the safe and efficient installation of all types of conductors and wires found on modern power lines.