Technology and construction works for OPGW installation in alive-line transmission line

Due to the increase of OPGW cable use in Brazil and considering the restrictions of the Brazilian National Operation System to disconnect the overhead transmission lines, manufacturers and utilities have developed technologies and construction works to remove the conventional existent ground wires replacing them by OPGW cables, with energized line. One of the fastest and safest alive line installation technology, particularly for 500 kV lines, is the "carrier method" developed by Fujikura Ltd. The method consists by using a self-propelled carrier, special aramide ropes and double pulleys and the average productivity of cable installation is 60 km/month per team. This paper describes the method, the tools, the training of construction teams for OPGW installation in alive-lines. The "carrier method" was successfully used in Brazil in the CHESF transmission line system, and about 300 km of OPGW cable using this method were installed.