In a groundbreaking study published in the *Journal of Civil Engineering*, researchers have unveiled new insights into the dynamic behavior of overhead power line (OHPL) supports under wind influence, offering critical implications for the energy sector. Led by Garanzha Igor from the Moscow State University of Civil Engineering (National Research University), the research provides a detailed experimental analysis of how wind loads affect the structural integrity and stability of power transmission line supports.
The study, conducted in two stages on the 220 kV “TPP Zmiev – Zalyutino” power line, involved exciting the supports’ oscillations using wind exposure and recording free oscillations of the system “support – current wires” through handmade resonance. The results, presented in the form of stress variation graphs, reveal the intricate dynamics of steel supports under wind action both along and across the power line.
One of the most significant findings is the determination of the basic natural frequencies of steel supports, which are crucial for understanding their response to wind loads. “We found that frequencies below 0.75 Hz are associated with the effect of wind on current wires,” Garanzha Igor explained. This discovery underscores the importance of frequency detuning of OHPL supports from the natural frequency of 2.2 Hz, as external actions with this frequency can occur during current wire breakage in one of the phases.
The research also highlights the impact of wind at a 90° angle to the overhead line route, which not only exerts maximum static pressure but is also almost twice as susceptible to the “support – wires” system in dynamics. This finding could revolutionize the design and construction of power transmission lines, ensuring greater stability and longevity.
The methodology employed in this study is versatile and can be applied to study the dynamic properties and responses of various structures, including wind power installations and antenna supports of radio relays and cellular communications. This adaptability makes the research highly relevant for the energy sector, where understanding and mitigating the effects of wind loads on infrastructure is paramount.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights provided by this research could shape future developments in the design and maintenance of power transmission lines. By incorporating these findings, engineers and researchers can enhance the resilience of energy infrastructure, ensuring a more reliable and efficient power supply. The study’s publication in the *Journal of Civil Engineering* further underscores its significance and potential impact on the field.