Comparative analysis of insulation-covered and bare conductors of overhead lines with variation of load currents considering weather conditions

The transmission capacity of overhead power lines depends on the temperature. Power cores temperature is determined by the weather conditions (sun, wind, temperature) and the load current magnitude. Due to their high performance characteristics insulated wires are widely used in the power industry. Based on the heat conductivity differential equation we developed a generalized mathematical model for stationary modes study of insulation-covered and bare overhead lines wires considering meteorological conditions and current changes. The mathematical model is implemented as a program for calculating overhead lines wires. The comparative analysis of temperature and active power loss of insulation-covered and bare wires with the same cross-section was completed in forced convection conditions. We considered the effect of solar radiation, wind speed, type of convection, heat radiation and the current magnitude. The conclusion was made about the over increased active power losses and temperature in the insulated wires. We determined that the wires insulation of overhead lines can reduce the temperature and active power loss compared with bare wires. The results can be used to improve the reliability and optimization of energy supply modes systems at the design stage and during operation.