Telecon Under Ground and Overhead Cables/Coupling

Telecon Under Ground and Overhead Cables/Coupling

Underground cables have the potential to reduce outages, maintenance cost and transmission losses. In general transmission losses are lower with underground cables compared to overhead lines. Overhead transmission lines are the bare conductors that are supported on pylons. Transmission lines poles are installed at a certain distance to hang these conductors above in the air. Underground lines are the insulated cables that are buried under the earth. Underground vaults, cables, and trenches are installed.

To minimize a large charging current produced in high voltage cables, the length of the cable should be minimized. That's why underground cables are preferred for low and medium voltage and the overhead transmission is preferred for high voltages. They are not safe. The environmental affect these conductors frequently. Traditionally, underground cables are used in cities where overhead lines are not feasible; in areas where an overhead line may risk lives; or in scenic areas where aesthetic is an important consideration. ... Underground cables are better protected against extreme weather and other catastrophic events than overhead lines.