Transmission line lightning performance based design

This paper presents design procedures that achieve specified lightning performance of overhead transmission lines. Since the lightning performance is affected by: (a) tower type, (b) grounding arrangement, (c) soil resistivity, and (d) lightning activity and lightning parameters of the area the problem is quite complex. This paper presents an integrated model of transmission towers, tower grounding and overhead line conductors. The model is utilized in a Monte Carlo simulation for the purpose of predicting the lightning performance of a transmission line. The paper presents the models and the simulation method. Typical results for typical transmission towers and grounding arrangements are provided. The model reveals that the grounding arrangement as well as the surge impedance of the transmission tower are important parameters affecting line performance.