Prospects for Implementing Multiple Circuit Supporting Towers on High Voltage Transmission Line in Ethiopia

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Date

2018-07

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Addis Ababa University

Abstract

Currently Ethiopia is under growing economy related to infrastructure, agriculture as well as industry parks. And for all these activities electric power is very essential to execute the said works effectively. On current basis, there are numerous power transmission and substation construction projects that have been executed and also on progress which are intended to fulfill the demands of the society by supplying the needed power for its intended purpose. Among the works that contribute for the growing economy in Ethiopia is, the construction of power plants, which can generate up to 6450MW, dispersed all over the country. A good example will be the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Project. This power generated from such sources should be transmitted to the intended destination (like industries, city electrical systems, etc…) successfully and cost effectively. Meanwhile, it is observed that only single and double circuit steel tower structures being used in Ethiopia which for the growing demand of the society, related to power, implementation of modified steel structures that can carry many conductors will be of great help in relation to construction cost as well as effectiveness especially in Urban area. This paper studies the prospects in instigating Multi – Circuit steel tower structures to the current practice in Ethiopia. And accordingly about 9.5% gain on material, transportation as well as construction cost was seen comparing two 500kV double circuit transmission line with the proposed ideal 4 – Circuit carrying transmission line assuming almost suave terrain. In addition to that, more than 50% benefit was also observed from the analysis with regards to the right of way compensation cost. Besides, while comparing suspension (00 – 20), tension (00 – 300) and angle towers (300 – 600) between single and double circuit 132kV and 230kV transmission line projects constructed in Ethiopia, more than 50% saving in weight has been observed for suspension towers of both 132kV and 230kV lines. And while implementing Multi – Circuit tower structures maintenance difficulty as well as security issues (i.e. regarding theft against members of the tower) should also be given due attention. Above all the findings of this paper will be expected to assist as an additive in the creation of an Ethiopian Code Standards for the planning, modeling, analysis, design, detailing and erection of power transmission structures.

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Keywords

Towers on High Voltage Transmission

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