In Denmark, the first three prototypes of a completely redesigned utility pole have been standing since August. They could decisively boost the expansion of the grids and thus the energy revolution as well.
A kilometer of overhead line in one day! The partners of the European Composite Pylon (ECP) project erected three utilitypoles in the new design at a distance of 350 meters from each other in this record time on testing grounds in Denmark. The poles were developed as an alternative to steel-lattice pylons in a project sponsored by the European Union and tested in the field for the first time in August after a two-year design phase. Power Composites (PC) contributed the two 16-meter support arms for the Y‑shaped poles.
1 DAY
duration of installation for three poles
Dr. Matthias Domm, Technical Project Manager, explains, “Installing three conventional poles would have taken more than a week. However, short installation times are crucial to the success of the energy revolution. To get it done, new power lines are needed urgently.” The new utility poles are only half as tall as before, thus making a much smaller mark on the landscape. As a result, the public should be more accepting of new lines and the approval process should go more quickly.
< 30 METERS
height of the poles
The utility poles of the future not only make a significant contribution to the energy revolution, but are also environmentally friendly themselves. Due to their compact size and the low number of individual components, the utility poles are lighter and require significantly less material.
< 400 KV
transmission voltage
Another plus is that only three square meters of surface area are needed for the foundation, as opposed to 64. This means significantly less concrete is poured and less land is sealed. The new utility poles could soon become a familiar sight in the countryside as all of the mechanical and electrical tests required by standards for the insulation arms have been passed successfully. This means that the poles can be put into operation immediately.
REINHAUSEN INSIDE
The European Composite Pylon project was initiated with the Danish design firm BYSTRUP and implemented together with Valmont SM, Nexans, Dervaux. and Power Composites (PC). The support arms of the utility poles, consisting of hollow composite insulators with a silicone shield sleeve, were developed by Reinhausen Power Composites and produced by Reinhausen France. These not only bear the weight of the transmission lines, but also fulfill the function of electrical insulation at the same time.
YOUR CONTACT
Do you have any questions about the utility poles of the future?
Dr. Matthias Domm is available for you:
M.Domm@reinhausen.com