Experimental and numerical assessment of EPS wind action on long span transmission line conductors

The paper presents a thorough evaluation of the action of extended pressure system (EPS) winds on a long spar transmission line crossing of a water way, which was monitored during a period of about a year for the determination of its fluctuating response. Additionally, a numerical model and ensuing analysis of the cable crossing subjected to stationary turbulent wind is presented and compared with the experimental observations. In fact, the former serve to complement the experimental findings by supplying information that could not be directly measured in the field. The latter, in turn, constitute a confirmation of the Monte Carlo full simulation analysis of the cable crossing, which includes a 3D model of the structural system as well as a 3D model of the stationary wind field. Out important result of the studies is that full three-dimensional models of both the cable crossing and the wind fields are needed to correctly evaluate the structural response. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.