Measurement and Analysis of Audible Noise from Operating 765 kV Transmission Lines

Audible noises from two operating 765 kV overhead transmission lines during various weather conditions were measured using a unique portable monitoring facility and analyzed. The measurement program was instituted in the summer of 1976 and continued through the summer of 1978. During the study various acoustic measurement instrumentation and analysis methods were evaluated to establish preferred measurement and analysis techniques. Finally, data were compiled to describe the noise performance of two separate transmission lines during various weather conditions: one consisting of a three phase line with 4 x 29.59 mm (1.165 in) conductor bundles with subconductor spacing of 0.46 m (18 in) and the other consisting of a three phase line with 4 x 35.18 mm (1.385 in) conductor bundles with subconductor spacing of 0.46 m (18 in). A special acknowledgement is given to representatives of the American Electric Power Service Corporation who provided electrical service and suitable site facilities at which to perform this study. The audible noise and radio noise levels at these two locations recorded by American Electric Power's permanent monitoring facilities will be presented in a future paper authored by American Electric Power.