Abstract:
Huge costs are associated with the construction of overhead power lines in the
Extra High Voltage category. More economical ways to perform the different aspects
of line construction are constantly sought. One area of construction, which is the
focus of this study, is alternative erection methods for the towers that support the
conductors. Mobile cranes have become the dominant piece of equipment to erect
these towers as they occupy a relatively small footprint, and although relatively
quick, these cranes do come at a substantial cost. Furthermore, their mobility in
terms of terrain is limited. Hence, this paper investigates a promising concept to lift
guyed V towers used in overhead power line construction, utilising only winches and
a gin pole. Once the tower is correctly assembled and support equipment like gin
pole, hinge mechanism and winches are in place, a control system ensures
autonomous lift in two stages. This paper further looks at scale model testing that
was conducted to prove the concept, the associated electronic control system
required and an analytical tool which provide support as well as an air cushion as a
future alternative for the gin pole. Comparison of the analytical tool data versus
other calculated methods is presented and its importance is explained.
