Accuracy of transmission line modeling based on aerial LiDAR survey

Aerial LiDAR survey is receiving wide application in transmission-line modeling due to its efficiency. The technique is particularly useful for modeling of existing lines for the purpose of thermal rating, upgrading, or vegetation management. An accurate modeling of an existing line depends largely on proper determination of the base conductor temperature, i.e. the conductor temperature at the time of the aerial light detection and ranging (LiDAR) survey. In this paper, an acceptable accuracy for the base conductor temperature is first established. Extensive parametric studies are then conducted to reveal the effects of all the potentially major factors: ambient air temperature, electrical load, solar radiation, wind, and conductor size on the base conductor temperature. As a result, recommendations are made on the proper practice of performing an aerial LiDAR survey and determining the base conductor temperature so that the resulting transmission line modeling is within an acceptable accuracy. It is demonstrated that a wide error can easily be introduced without following a proper procedure for the LiDAR survey.