In South Africa, there are approximately eight different types of power lines in use across the country. Each power line type has been designed to be able to carry a differing voltage potential. They have been designed at multitude of heights and shapes too.

Let’s take a moment to discuss the most common power lines types in our country:

What different power lines exist?

In SA, we most commonly see eight different kinds of power lines. Take a look at the picture below:

what-different-power-lines-exist

The differing power lines are designed for many different reasons. They also each have a differing kilovolt potential. A kilovolt is a unit of electromotive force, equal to 1000 volts. So, as you can see in the picture, the biggest power line type can hold a force of 275kV, which means it has an electric force potential of 275 000 Volts – wow that’s a lot right?

As you can see some power lines are designed to be over 50m high, while others are only 20m high. There are many different pylon types that exist as well. Each power line design has a specific purpose and is designed to carry a certain voltage across a certain distance.

Do different bird guards exist for different power lines?

The short answer is no. There is one specific design of bird guard which can be used on all differing power line type. As we discussed in last month’s blog, Eskom – South Africa’s power utility – designs its power lines and subsequent bird guards to a specific set of standards. As the electricity specialist in our country, Eskom’s engineers have studied and understood the exact measurements and specifications that work.

“Eskom released a tender in June 2018 which included the new bird guard specifications that need to be manufactured and installed on all of their power lines. These specifications are valid for five years and will be revised again only in approximately 2022. So, we know what Eskom wants in terms of design and materials for bird guards for the next few years” says Talitha Oosthuizen, Marketing and Finance Manager for BeeTee Projects.

For more information on bird guards and the benefits of installing them, contact the specialists in the manufacture and installing of top-quality bird guards today. Call BeeTee Projects on 011 894 5573