energies

Article
CALAJOULE: An Italian Research to Lessen Joule
Power Losses in Overhead Lines by Means of
Innovative Conductors
Roberto Benato 1, * , Roberto Caldon 1 , Antonio Chiarelli 1 , Massimiliano Coppo 1 ,
Claudio Garescì 2 , Sebastian Dambone Sessa 1 , Debora Mimo 3 , Michele Modesti 1 ,
Luca Mora 3 and Francesca Piovesan 1
1 Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
2 Nuova Elettromeccanica Sud (NES) s.p.a. Campo Calabro, 89052 Reggio Calabria, Italy
3 De Angeli Prodotti S.r.l. Bagnoli di Sopra, 35023 Padova, Italy
* Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +39-049-827-7532




Received: 15 July 2019; Accepted: 6 August 2019; Published: 13 August 2019


Abstract: The ongoing evolution of the power system to implement climate action policies is resulting
in a continuous increase in the penetration of renewables and the necessity of strengthening the
transmission grid to optimize the usage of those sources and contain operation costs. Reinforcing the
transmission lines or building new ones is a process that is made difficult due to authorization issues
related with environmental and public acceptance concerns. Developing innovative conductors for
overhead lines with enhanced performances with respect to the traditional ones would bring benefits
in terms of energy efficiency increases in transmission and distribution grids without requiring the
substitution of the existing towers. The project CALAJOULE (the genesis of the acronym comes
from the union of the Italian verb “calare”-to decrease-to the third person singular, namely “cala”
i.e., decreases, and of Joule, obvious reference to the active losses), cofinanced by the Italian Ministry
of Economic Development in the framework of the “Ricerca di Sistema” program, aims at proposing
innovative solutions for overhead line conductors for the containment of Joule power losses. In this
paper, starting from the state-of-the-art of the currently adopted conductors, the main innovative
solutions resulting from the project are presented and compared with the traditional ones to evaluate
the achievable reduction in Joule losses.

Keywords: innovative conductors; overhead lines; power losses reduction

1. Introduction
In recent decades, the growth and economic development of some countries has resulted in a
stimulus, and consequently an increase in consumption; among these is the increase in the demand
for electricity. More recently, the climate action plans worldwide are demanding for an evolution of
the electricity sector, in order to contain the emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG), improve the energy
efficiency and increase the share of renewables in the electricity production. At the European level, the
objectives set for 2020 are on the way to being fulfilled, with a GHG reduction of 22.4% compared to
1990 levels, along with 17% of final energy usage being covered by renewable sources [1]. With the
release of the “clean energy for all Europeans” package in 2016, the EU parliament defined new
objectives in the climate and energy framework for the period 2021 to 2030, which aims to continue
the transition started in the previous period [2]. The introduction of the new objectives in energy
efficiency improvement and renewables penetration is now leading to a revision of the network code
and in the reform of the electricity markets [3], pursuing a better usage of electricity and higher

Energies 2019, 12, 3107; doi:10.3390/en12163107 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2019, 12, 3107 2 of 21

flexibility. The above-mentioned climate action policies are resulting in an evolution of the generation
park, with the gradual substitution of traditional fossil-fuelled power plants with a high number of
smaller generators, the majority of which are connected to the distribution network. To accompany
this change, it is of utmost importance to have a power system infrastructure capable of hosting
the geographically displaced generation and the sudden changes in the power flows, containing
the formation of bottlenecks, and improving the energy efficiency of the whole system. Along with
innovative network management techniques [4], aiming at exploiting the presence of distributed
generators and their participation to the ancillary services market [5], it will be necessary to upgrade
the infrastructure of the electricity system as increasing shares of electricity production will shift from
large power plants to small generators. As it is well known, active losses in electricity systems vary
considerably depending on the voltage level. Typically, active losses ranging from 2% to 10% can
be assumed, passing from transmission networks (high and extra-high voltage levels, HV and EHV,
respectively) to distribution networks (medium and low voltage levels, MV and LV, respectively) [6–9].
For overhead lines (OHLs), the different Joule losses values are due to the r/x ratios (ratio between the
resistance r and the reactance x of the positive sequence impedance) of the transmission lines being
much lower than those of the distribution networks. The reduction of Joule losses in the power system,
both at transmission and distribution levels, therefore, plays a key role in increasing energy efficiency,
with obvious advantages for the power system both in economic terms and in terms of reducing carbon
dioxide emission into the atmosphere. This framework is extremely large, given the large extension
of the power supply system and the different peculiarities of the EHV-HV and MV-LV networks.
The typical Italian levels of the EHV-HV network are 380-220-150-132 kV, always with neutral solidly
connected to earth. The MV network is typically operating at 20 kV with neutral grounded through
Petersen’s resonant coil [10], although some parts operate at 60 kV with neutral isolated [11], while the
LV network (400 V) operates with neutral solidly grounded in the secondary substation.
Improving the power system capacity leads to either the construction of new power lines or the
reinforcement of the existing ones. On the one hand, building new Overhead lines (OHLs) is a difficult
process that leads to issues related with the regulatory process due to environmental and public
acceptance concerns. On the other hand, substituting the currently installed standard conductors with
others having a larger cross-section may cause an overall weight increase, resulting in the necessity of
adapting the towers, dramatically increasing the investment costs.
The project CALAJOULE, cofinanced by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development in the
framework of the “Ricerca di Sistema” program, aims at proposing innovative conductor prototypes
for overhead lines for the containment of Joule power losses. This paper aims at disseminating all the
main findings and conclusions of the CALAJOULE project, whereas some preliminary results had
already been presented in some previously published papers [12,13].
The main difference with respect to other literature contributions regarding innovative overhead
conductors is that the developed solutions have been ideated not to increase current ratings and power
flows but to lessen the Joule power losses. The positive economic and environmental impacts have
been evaluated quantitatively for paradigmatic overhead lines. In this paper, after an overview of the
state-of-the-art in currently adopted OHL conductors for the Italian transmission and distribution
networks, two innovative conductor prototypes are proposed, according to the specific needs of the
Italian distribution and transmission electric grids. For the novel conductor proposed for transmission
and subtransmission grids, an experimental research on the core-coating material has been developed
and presented in this paper for the first time in technical literature. Moreover, a procedure for the
evaluation of the impact of substituting the traditional conductors with the proposed new ones is fully
developed and presented, showing the potential results in containment of Joule power losses, in cost
savings and in CO2 emission avoidance. Consequently, such approach allows quantitatively evaluating
the positive economic and environmental impacts for paradigmatic overhead lines. In order to perform
these above-mentioned evaluations of the whole benefit deriving from less power and energy losses,
the research group has benefitted from some analytical tools created and invented by the Electric
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 3 of 21

Energy Transmission Laboratory of the Padova Power Systems Group. In particular, the Ossanna’s
formulation has been extensively applied to a stepwise duration curve forecasting the power flows of a
given overhead line [14–16]. The CALAJOULE researchers have also benefitted from a long experience
in the transmission and distribution electric grids witnessed by several papers [17–21]. This topic is
well covered in technical literature also in international working groups and standards [22–28].

2. Current Solutions for Overhead Lines Conductors

This section presents an overview of the presently installed conductors for OHLs and some of
the commercially available solutions. Since the scope of this project is to develop new conductors for
the Italian context, the overview refers to Italian OHLs, both in the transmission (HV and EHV) and
distribution (MV and LV) grids. However, a similar distribution can be assumed for other contexts
given the existing standardization in the conductor typologies.

2.1. State-of-the-Art of OHL Conductors

At the time of building of most of the currently existing OHLs the electrical companies were still
vertically integrated, meaning that all the entire electricity chain (from production to final delivery)
was owned by the same company. This is one of the reasons why the conductors adopted in power
system wiring are standardized, and typically grouped in few types, depending on the voltage level.
Due to its good mechanical performances, the most used type is aluminium conductor steel reinforced
(ACSR), whereas aluminium alloys (e.g., Aldrey, generally known as AAAC: All Aluminium Alloy
Conductor) and copper (especially in older LV lines) may be found in the cases where the mechanical
stresses are lighter, so the priority is on increasing the overall conductibility.
In Table 1, the conductors types mostly used in the Italian transmission grid are summarized
with reference to the respective lengths. As it can be seen from Table 1, at EHV and HV levels (380
and 220 kV), over 95% of the lines are equipped with ACSR conductors due to the high mechanical
performances required as a result of long spans and high linear weight due to a large cross-section.
Furthermore, given the high capacity needed in these power lines, along with the necessity of reducing
the corona effects, most of the OHLs are equipped with bundles of two or three conductors (about
50%), as can be seen in Table 2, reporting the ACSR conductors divided by the main cross-sections
installed. Although a detailed analysis of all the HV Italian power system was not possible due to
unavailability of data, the main conductor types adopted in the 150–132 kV system are still ACSR, but
with the cross-section more likely to be about 308 mm2 .
In distribution networks, as shown in Table 3, although ACSR conductors are still present in a
significant share (about 16%), most of the OHLs are equipped with copper conductors, especially at LV
level. A detailed distribution of OHLs conductor types is reported in Table 4, in which it can be seen
that a significant share of the copper conductors has a cross-section below 25 mm2 (about 50% of the
total extension, mostly LV).

Table 1. Italian extra-high voltage level (EHV) and high voltage level (HV) transmission network
extension divided by main wire types in (km) and in (%) respect to the total.

ACSR CU AAAC
North 9956 (100.0%) 0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
Central 4821 (88.2%) 212 (3.9%) 435 (8.0%)
South 6198 (94.7%) 348 (5.3%) 32 (0.5%)
Total 20,975 (95.5%) 560 (2.5%) 467 (2.1%)
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 4 of 21

Table 2. Detail of the Italian EHV Transmission network extension divided by cross-sections (mm2 )
and number of subconductors per phase of aluminium conductor steel reinforced (ACSR) conductors
in (km) and in (%).

Whole
Cross-Section 308 428 509 585 708 755 1865
in (mm2 )
Total
Number of
Subconductors 1 1 2 1 1 2 3 1 1 1
per Phase
319 3147 483 957 1000 163 2843 205 0 838 9956
North
1.54% 15.20% 2.33% 4.62% 4.83% 0.78% 13.73% 0.99% 0.00% 4.05% 48.07%
124 433 0 435 93 556 2987 0 0 153 4780
Central
0.60% 2.09% 0.00% 2.10% 0.45% 2.68% 14.42% 0.00% 0.00% 0.74% 23.08%
0 11 0 620 96 311 2432 6 0 0 3475
South
0.00% 0.05% 0.00% 2.99% 0.46% 1.50% 11.74% 0.03% 0.00% 0.00% 16.78%
0 0 0 0 1480 177 526 0 315 0 2498
Islands
0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 7.14% 0.86% 2.54% 0.00% 1.52% 0.00% 12.06%
444 3591 483 2012 2668 1207 8788 211 315 991 20,709
Network total
2.14% 17.34% 2.33% 9.72% 12.88% 5.83% 42.43% 1.02% 1.52% 4.78% 100.00%

Table 3. Italian distribution network (MV and LV) main wire types extension in (km) and (%) respective
to the total lines extension.

ACSR AAC CU AAAC

North 8880 (19.5%) 356 (0.8%) 32,786 (72.1%) 2603 (5.7%)
Central 4788 (7.3%) 318 (0.5%) 59,969 (91.9%) 38 (0.1%)
South 16,420 (20.2%) 1331 (1.6%) 56,038 (69.0%) 6420 (7.9%)
TOTAL 30,090 (15.7%) 2005 (1.0%) 148,789 (77.5%) 9062 (4.7%)

Table 4. Detail of the distribution network (MV and LV) main wire types extension in (km) and in (%)
respective to the total extension.

ACSR AAC CU AAAC TOT

Cross
≥100 >25 >16 >25 >35
Section <100 ≥150 ≤25 ≥35 ≤16 >35 ≤35 >70 -
(mm2 ) <150 ≤35 ≤25 ≤35 ≤70
305 264 8311 7 109 240 4249 14,364 4450 9723 1322 1077 204 45,480
North
0.16% 0.14% 4.33% 0.00% 0.06% 0.13% 2.21% 7.49% 2.32% 5.07% 0.69% 0.56% 0.11% 23.70%
271 213 4304 26 43 249 15,424 18,323 18,774 7448 10 7 21 65,236
Central
0.14% 0.11% 2.24% 0.01% 0.02% 0.13% 8.04% 9.55% 9.78% 3.88% 0.01% 0.00% 0.01% 34.00%
420 2542 5504 86 259 491 12,656 12,489 5263 487 3179 1458 55 45,365
South
0.22% 1.32% 2.87% 0.04% 0.13% 0.26% 6.60% 6.51% 2.74% 0.25% 1.66% 0.76% 0.03% 23.64%
273 342 7339 1 172 322 5833 12,347 4935 2028 1554 161 13 35,809
Islands
0.14% 0.18% 3.82% 0.00% 0.09% 0.17% 3.04% 6.43% 2.57% 1.06% 0.81% 0.08% 0.01% 18.66%
Network 1269 3361 25,458 120 583 1302 38,162 57,523 33,422 19,686 6065 2703 293 191,890
total 0.66% 1.75% 13.27% 0.06% 0.30% 0.68% 19.89% 29.98% 17.42% 10.26% 3.16% 1.41% 0.15% -

2.2. Existing Conductors for Transmission OHLs

The recent evolution trend in the power systems, as mentioned in Section 1, imposes new
challenges to the transmission and distribution system operators (with acronyms TSOs and DSOs,
respectively), to face the higher uncertainty in the power flows and reducing the bottlenecks. Although
increasing the flexibility of the power system remains a priority, reinforcing the power lines will be a
necessity in the near future. The challenge is then to find conductors able to uprate the current lines
(i.e., increase the thermal limit) while ensuring the same (or improved) mechanical performances.
Innovation in this field has mainly concerned conductors indicated as High Temperature Low Sag
(HTLS), capable of operating continuously at high temperatures (above 100 ◦ C), but containing the
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 5 of 21

sag due to elongation resulting from the high temperature [27]. The main commercially available
solutions for HTLS conductors, shown in Figure 1 and whose characteristics can be found in Table 5,
are as follows.

• Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced, ACSR, or Aluminium Conductor Steel Supported, ACSS,
composed by annealed aluminium strands (or even trapezoidal wires, in the ACSS case) over a
stranded steel core: this is the most commonly adopted solution for transmission OHLs;
Energies
• 2019, 12, x FOR
Aluminium PEER REVIEW
Conductor 5 of 21
Composite Reinforced, ACCR, typically composed by a high-temperature
aluminium alloy over a composite core of aluminium fibers embedded in a pure aluminium
 Aluminium Conductor Composite Reinforced, ACCR, typically composed by a high-
matrix. The same structure is also used in (Z)TACIR conductors, in which the core is in INVAR
temperature aluminium alloy over a composite core of aluminium fibers embedded in a pure
(steel and nickel alloy with very low linear expansion coefficient);
aluminium matrix. The same structure is also used in (Z)TACIR conductors, in which the core is
• Gap-type Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced, G(Z)TACSR, consisting of an external
in INVAR (steel and nickel alloy with very low linear expansion coefficient);
thermal-resistant aluminium alloy (with a layer of trapezoidal wires), separated from the steel
 Gap-type Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced, G(Z)TACSR, consisting of an external
core by a gap filled with grease to allow the two layers to move independently. This ensures to
thermal-resistant aluminium alloy (with a layer of trapezoidal wires), separated from the steel
apply the mechanical tension on the steel core only while increasing the aluminium cross-section
core by a gap filled with grease to allow the two layers to move independently. This ensures to
for a reduced electrical resistance;
apply the mechanical tension on the steel core only while increasing the aluminium cross-section
• Aluminium Conductor Composite Core, ACCC/TW, typically made of trapezoidal wires of
for a reduced electrical resistance;
thermal-resistant aluminium alloy over a core consisting of carbon fibers (in the inner part)
 Aluminium Conductor Composite Core, ACCC/TW, typically made of trapezoidal wires of
surrounded by a coating of glass fibers. This configuration gathers the advantage of increased
thermal-resistant aluminium alloy over a core consisting of carbon fibers (in the inner part)
aluminium cross-section and weight lowering due to the use of a carbon fiber core.
surrounded by a coating of glass fibers. This configuration gathers the advantage of increased
aluminium cross-section and weight lowering due to the use of a carbon fiber core.

(a) (b) (c) (d)

Figure 1. Main
Main types
types of high temperature low sag (HTLS) conductors: (a)
(a) ACSR,
ACSR, ACSS;
ACSS; (b)
(b) ACCR,
ACCR,
(Z)TACIR; (c) G(Z)TACSR;
G(Z)TACSR; (d)
(d) ACCC/TW.
ACCC/TW.

Table 5. Comparison of the main HTLS conductor types with ACSR.

Table 5. Comparison of the main HTLS conductor types with ACSR.
ACSR ACCR G(Z)TACSR ACCC/TW
ACSR ACCR G(Z)TACSR ACCC/TW
Diameter (mm) 22.8 23.9 22.6 21.79
Diameter (mm) 22.8 23.9 22.6 21.79
7 × 2.8 (Steel core) 7 × 2.9 (Al core) 7 × 2.8 (Steel core) 7.11 (Core)
7 × 2.8 (Steel core) 7 × 2.9 (Al core) 7 × 2.8 (Steel core) 7.11 (Core)
Composition (mm) 26 × 3.6 (Al strands) 26 × 3.8 (Al strands) 10 × 3.94 (Al TW) 16 × 4.95 (Al TW)
26 × 3.6 (Al strands) 26 × 3.8 (Al strands) 10 ×× 3.1
19 3.94(Al
(Alstrands)
TW) 16 × 4.95 (Al TW)
Composition (mm)
Cross-section (mm2 ) 307.8 338 19
308.4 355.2
Weight (kg/km) 1068 966 × 3.1 (Al1098
strands) 948
Rdc20 ◦ C (Ω/km)
Cross-section (mm2) 0.1063
307.8 0.0945
338 0.111
308.4 0.0887
355.2
Rac20 ◦ C (Ω/km) 0.1065 0.0971 0.114 0.091
Weight (kg/km)
Ampacity (A) 1068
745 966
1332 1098
1128 9481227
Temperature (◦ C)
Rdc20 °C (Ω/km) 75
0.1063 210
0.0945 210
0.111 180
0.0887
Rac20 °C (Ω/km) 0.1065 0.0971 0.114 0.091
As reported
Ampacity (Ain) Table 5, the745
four conductor types,
1332although having1128
similar dimensions
1227(diameter
and Temperature
cross-section),
(°C)present significantly
75 different ampacities
210 and resistance
210 values. In
180particular,
comparing the traditional ACSR, for which the ampacity value is reported with reference to the
temperature of 75 ◦ C assumed by the standards, with the ACCC/TW conductor, it can be noticed how,
As reported in Table 5, the four conductor types, although having similar dimensions (diameter
although having a lower diameter, the actual cross-section results higher, due to the trapezoidal wires
and cross-section), present significantly different ampacities and resistance values. In particular,
and the smaller section required by the composite material core. As a result, the conductor resistance
comparing the traditional ACSR, for which the ampacity value is reported with reference to the
is decreased and the ampacity is higher than the ACSR.
temperature of 75 °C assumed by the standards, with the ACCC/TW conductor, it can be noticed
how, although having a lower diameter, the actual cross-section results higher, due to the trapezoidal
wires and the smaller section required by the composite material core. As a result, the conductor
resistance is decreased and the ampacity is higher than the ACSR.

3. Innovative Conductor for Transmission OHLs

Energies 2019, 12, 3107 6 of 21

3. Innovative Conductor for Transmission OHLs

In this section, the innovative conductor proposed for transmission OHLs is presented.
The following subsections discuss about the characteristics of the proposed conductor, with a focus on
the experimental research concerning the materials to realize the core shell.

3.1. Conductor Characteristics

The conductor is designed to replace the traditional bimetallic conductor (ACSR) having overall
cross-section of 308 mm2 and diameter of ϕ = 22.8 mm, mainly employed in the 132–150 kV Italian
subtransmission network. A section of the innovative conductor, denominated ACCM/TW (Aluminium
Conductor Composite Multistrand-Trapeziodal Wires), is depicted in Figure 2, in which the external
conductive part, the inner core and its shell are colored differently. The properties of the innovative
conductor, compared to those of the traditional one, are reported in Table 6. Instead of being made of
steel, the conductor core, in orange in Figure 2, is made of a composite material, mainly consisting of
carbon fibers. This choice allows the same breaking load to have a conductor core with reduced section,
with a significant decrease in weight and in thermal expansion respect to the traditional conductor (1/10
respect to steel). Furthermore, respect to already existing commercial options, having a single-stranded
carbon fiber core, the proposed conductor presents a core divided in seven strands as it can be seen in
Figure 2. Due to the thermal processes required in its manufacturing, carbon fiber composite materials
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 21
tend to have a higher homogeneity in the external section, whereas the fibers assume inhomogeneous
disposition in the inner parts [28].
22.78
10.26
7.98

Figure2.
Figure Sectionof
2. Section ofthe
theinnovative
innovativeACCM/TW
ACCM/TWconductor
conductor with
with diameter
diameter 22.78
22.78 mm.
mm.

Table 6. Main properties of the innovative conductor for transmission OHLs compared with its
Table 6. Main
reference properties
traditional of the innovative conductor for transmission OHLs compared with its
conductor.
reference traditional conductor.
ACSR ACCM/TW
ACSR ACCM/TW
Diameter (mm) 22.8 22.78
Diameter (mm) 22.8 22.78
7 × 2.8 (Steel core)
7  2.8 (Steel core) 1 × 3/6 ×
1 × 3/6 ×(Core)
2.49 2.49 (Core)
Composition (mm) 26 × 3.6 (Al strands) 1 × 1 (Al shell)
Composition (mm) 26  3.6 (Al -
strands) 1 × 1 (Al
24 × 3.13 (Al layers)
shell)
- 24 × 3.13 (Al layers)
Cross-section (mm) 307.8 345.5
Cross-section (mm)
Weight (kg/km)
307.8
1068 989
345.5
Weight (kg/km)
Breaking load (kN) 1068
97.52 117.39 989
BreakingRload (kN)
ac20 C (Ω/km)
◦ 97.52
0.1065 0.0894117.39
Ampacity
Rac20 °C (Ω/km) (A) 745
0.1065 994 0.0894
Temperature (◦ C) 75 120 994
Ampacity (A) 745
Temperature (°C) 75 120
For this reason, in this project, a stranded core is proposed, in order to contain the cross-section of
eachExperimental
3.2. of the composite
Researchcoreonstrands, ensuring
Core-Coating a better distribution of the mechanical stress on the core
Materials
in correspondence of the clamps.
The carbon fiber composites, although offering excellent mechanical performance, are negatively
Moreover, the presence of multiple wires leads to several advantages that makes this solution
affected by humidity due to the oxidation process that drastically degrades the characteristics of this
much more interesting than the single wire core (i.e., ACCC-TW of Table 5), mainly from the safety
material. Aiming at containing the conductor weight increase due to the coating, an important
point of view. Looking at the experience of other manufacturers, the single wire core (i.e., ACCC-TW
experimental part of the CalaJoule research project focused on the evaluation of the performance of
of Table 5) has shown several safety problems due to the nature of carbon composite—a brittle and
polymeric materials [29,30]. The scope is to assess their suitability for realizing a shell for the core of
the conductor capable of protecting it from oxidation (the area of application of the polymeric coating
is highlighted in purple in Figure 2). Given the critical temperature conditions required (180–200 °C),
the choice falls on thermally resistant polymers such as PEEK, PEKK, PEI, PPA and PPS. PEEK, PPS,
PPA, and PEI.
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 7 of 21

stiff material. Several single wire core (i.e., ACCC-TW of Table 5) breakages have been reported
during the installation and also during the lifetime of the line usually within a short period after
conductor installation but in some cases some years after installation. These accidents affect the carbon
core, which is very sensitive to the bending external stress that can occur in the installation work.
The problem is that this kind of breaks (since they affect just the carbon core and not the aluminium
outer layer) are not visible from outside and cannot be detected by visually checking the conductor.
For this reason the installation must be carried out with great care, avoiding excessive bending that
could lead to core damage and the entire process must be constantly supervised, becoming quite
complicated compared to other conductor installations. With a multiwire core the nature of the carbon
composite material is not changed, but the seven-wire (multistrand) structure is much more flexible
than the single carbon wire. This means that the core is much less sensitive to breakages. Another
important feature of this kind of solution is that the consequences of a possible break are much less
serious. In fact, if a wire breaks the other six ones guarantee the stability of the structure, leading to a
much more safe transmission line. On opposite, every little damage of a single core (i.e., ACCC-TW)
leads to the complete failure. Moreover, the ACCR solution has as main disadvantages the high cost
and the brittleness due to the nature of the core material. Furthermore, the losses are not optimized as
it can be seen from the higher electrical resistance compared to the ACCM.
The reduction of the core section and weight allows, for the same external diameter, an increase
of the conductive part in aluminium. In addition, the trapezoidal strands allow a better filling factor
than the traditional circular strands. In Table 6, the main characteristics of the innovative ACCM/TW
conductor are reported, compared with the traditional ACSR ones. The shell, in purple in Figure 2,
is realized in aluminium, as this material is the most suited to keep the core insulated from external
humidity and guarantee durability for the expected OHL lifetime. A deeper discussion on this aspect
is made in the following section.

3.2. Experimental Research on Core-Coating Materials

The carbon fiber composites, although offering excellent mechanical performance, are negatively
affected by humidity due to the oxidation process that drastically degrades the characteristics of
this material. Aiming at containing the conductor weight increase due to the coating, an important
experimental part of the CalaJoule research project focused on the evaluation of the performance of
polymeric materials [29,30]. The scope is to assess their suitability for realizing a shell for the core of
the conductor capable of protecting it from oxidation (the area of application of the polymeric coating
is highlighted in purple in Figure 2). Given the critical temperature conditions required (180–200 ◦ C),
the choice falls on thermally resistant polymers such as PEEK, PEKK, PEI, PPA and PPS. PEEK, PPS,
PPA, and PEI.
The main characteristics required of the materials are the impermeability to oxygen and the
preservation of the properties for long periods (at least four decades, supposed as the lifetime of an
OHL). The polymeric materials to be used as coating are mainly required to be resistant to continuous
exposure to high temperatures (140 ◦ C) and to avoid the flow of oxygen in order to prevent oxidation
of the carbon fiber core.
After an initial screening among the best technopolymers available on the market, those having
the best performance in relation to thermal properties were identified. The classes of technopolymers
analyzed are as follows [16].

• PEEK, polyetheretherketone, is a semicrystalline thermoplastic technopolymer that can be used at

high temperatures. It has high mechanical and chemical resistance, is resistant to abrasion, is not
flammable, resists to high energy radiation.
• PEKK, polyetherketoneketone, is a semicrystalline thermoplastic polymer with high heat resistance,
significant mechanical strength and rigidity, combined with good chemical resistance. It is an
intrinsically fireproof material with limited smoke generation and low toxicity in case of fire.
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 8 of 21

•Energies
PEI, polyetherimide,
2019, is an amorphous technopolymer that can be used continuously at 8high
12, x FOR PEER REVIEW of 21
temperatures. Its properties also include high mechanical strength and rigidity even at high
temperatures,
temperatures,dimensional
dimensionalstability
stabilityforforlow
lowmoisture
moisture absorption,
absorption, and
andgood
good electrical properties.
electrical properties. It
isIt inherently
is inherently flame retardant
flame andand
retardant chemically
chemicallyresistant and its
resistant andelectrical properties
its electrical are stable
properties even
are stable
under
even undervarying temperature,
varying humidity
temperature, and frequency
humidity conditions.
and frequency conditions.
• PPA,PPA,polyphthalamide,
polyphthalamide,isisa asemicrystalline
semicrystallinearomatic
aromatic polyamide.
polyamide. Compared
Compared to to
polyamide
polyamide 6.66.6
it isit
more mechanically resistant, more rigid, less sensitive to moisture, and has
is more mechanically resistant, more rigid, less sensitive to moisture, and has improved thermal improved thermal
properties,
properties,fatigue,
fatigue,and
andcreep
creepresistance
resistancefactors
factorsthat
thatmake
makeititapplicable
applicablein in aa wide
wide range
range of sectors;
• PPS,PPS, polyphenylene sulfide, sulfide,isisa asemicrystalline
semicrystalline polymer
polymer with excellent
with thermal
excellent resistance.
thermal This
resistance.
material
This is characterized
material by inherent
is characterized by inherentlow flammability
low flammabilityand and
goodgood
chemical resistance.
chemical It hasItvery
resistance. has
low moisture
very low moisture absorption, highhigh
absorption, mechanical
mechanical strength, and and
strength, dimensional
dimensionalstability.
stability.
For aa selection
For selection of of these
these materials
materials (shown
(shown in
in Figure
Figure 3),
3), performance
performance waswas assessed
assessed through
through the
the
following analysis; chemical (FT-IR), physical-mechanical (hardness, density,
following analysis; chemical (FT-IR), physical-mechanical (hardness, density, and bending properties),and bending
properties),
thermal (TGA thermal
and DSC), (TGA andand DSC), and dynamic-mechanical
dynamic-mechanical (DMA). Creep (DMA). Creep
resistance was resistance was and
also evaluated also
evaluated and oxygen permeability measured. The samples have undergone an accelerated
oxygen permeability measured. The samples have undergone an accelerated aging test to assess their aging test
to assess their
degradation degradation
according according
to the expectedtolifetime
the expected lifetime
of an OHL (40 of an OHL
years). The(40 years). The approximated
approximated model in [25]
model in [25] has been employed to evaluate the deterioration of the
has been employed to evaluate the deterioration of the material properties, applying material properties, applying
temperatures in
temperatures
the range of 200 in to
the250
range
◦ C. of 200 to 250 °C.

Figure 3. Polymers
Figure3. Polymers tested
tested in
in the
the project.
project.

In
In Table
Table7,
7,aa list
list of
of the
the tested
tested polymers
polymers is
is reported
reported along
along with
with the
the measured
measured oxygen
oxygen permeability
permeability
(considered ◦ C, 50% R.H.
(consideredaadiscriminatory
discriminatoryproperty)
property)measured
measuredaccording
accordingtotoISO
ISO15105-2,
15105-2,atat25
25 °C, 50% R.H.
Table 7. List of the tested polymers; the highlighted ones are those with the best performance overall.
Table 7. List of the tested polymers; the highlighted ones are those with the best performance overall.
Material
Material Permeability
Permeability
Type (cm· cm3 /(m2 24· h 3bar))2
Type (cm cm /(m 24 h bar))
PEEK PEEK 235 235
PEKK PEKK 796 796
PPS PPS 4.2 4.2
PEI PEI 2.3 2.3
PPA 9.7
PPA 9.7

The polymers that have shown the best performance are the polyetherimide and the
polyphenylene sulfide.
However, after accelerated aging at 250 °C, the mechanical and oxygen permeability properties
have shown a degradation, which leads to the conclusion that these materials cannot guarantee
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 21

protection
Energies 2019,to 12,the
3107conductor’s core under such severe conditions (T = 140 °C) and for long periods 9 of(40
21
years).
The treatment of samples subjected to accelerated aging at 200 °C, following the procedure
The polymers
described above, takes that have shown
7.6 months the 40
to estimate best performance
years of operationare the°C.
at 140 polyetherimide and the
In practice, the duration
polyphenylene sulfide.
of the test was 2.5 months because already after this period all the materials considered showed clear
◦ C, the mechanical and oxygen permeability properties
signsHowever,
of degradation,after accelerated aging atthe
such as to prevent 250measurement of oxygen permeability.
haveInshown
Figure 4, the thin film samples used for the aging testthat
a degradation, which leads to the conclusion these materials
are shown cannot
in the initial stateguarantee
and after
protection to the conductor’s core under such severe conditions (T = 140
the process. The films subjected to this aging test had the necessary geometry for the permeability
◦ C) and for long periods

(40 years).
tests, therefore thin films. Since the degradation of the material starts from the external surface, in
Thewith treatment ◦ C, following the procedure
contact the air, of forsamples
thin films subjected to accelerated
it can affect aging of
the entire section at the
200film in a relatively short time.
described
This leadsabove, takes 7.6 months
to embrittlement to estimate
and cracking that40 yearsthe
affects of operation at 140 ◦ C. Inmeasurement.
oxygen permeability practice, the duration
of theFortestthis
wasreason,
2.5 monthsit has been decided to apply the aging process to thicker samplesshowed
because already after this period all the materials considered (4 mm),clear
but
signs of degradation, such as to prevent the measurement of oxygen
with a temperature of 250 °C, in order to reduce the measurement time while assuming the same permeability.
In Figure
expected lifetime4, the
of thin film samples
40 years. In Figure used for 4the
5, the mm aging test are
samples areshown
showninforthethree
initialstages
state and after
of the the
aging
process. The films subjected to this aging test had the necessary geometry for the
test: start time (1), after 2.5 h (2), and at the end of the test, after 7.2 days (3). As it can be seen, after permeability tests,
therefore
2.5 thin films.
h the samples Since
show the degradation
a color variation and, of the material
in the starts
case of PEI,from the external
the formation of surface, in contact
surface swellings.
with
At the theend
air,offorthe
thin filmsprocess,
aging it can affect the samples
all the entire section
showofsignificant
the film incolor
a relatively shortIntime.
variation. This leads
particular, the
to embrittlement and cracking that affects
samples of PEI are partly deformed and have cavities inside. the oxygen permeability measurement.

(a) (b)
Figure
Figure 4.4. Thin
Thin film samples of
film samples of PEI
PEI(Top)
(Top)and
andPPS
PPS(Bottom)
(Bottom)before
before(a)
(a)and
andafter
after
(b)(b) the
the aging
aging process
process at
at ◦ C.°C.
200200

For this reason, it has been decided to apply the aging process to thicker samples (4 mm), but with
a temperature of 250 ◦ C, in order to reduce the measurement time while assuming the same expected
lifetime of 40 years. In Figure 5, the 4 mm samples are shown for three stages of the aging test: start
time (1), after 2.5 h (2), and at the end of the test, after 7.2 days (3). As it can be seen, after 2.5 h the
samples show a color variation and, in the case of PEI, the formation of surface swellings. At the end
of the aging process, all the samples show significant color variation. In particular, the samples of PEI
are partly deformed and have cavities inside.

(a) (b) (c)

Figure 5. Four millimeter samples of PEI (Top) and PPS (Bottom) before (a) and after the aging process
at 250 °C; (b) after 2.5 h and (c) after 7.2 days.
 (a) (b)
Figure
Energies 4. Thin
2019, film samples of PEI (Top) and PPS (Bottom) before (a) and after (b) the aging process 10 of 21
12, 3107
at 200 °C.

Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 21

The mechanical properties of the samples after the test have been compared with those at the
start of it as reported (a) in Table 8, where the flexural (b) strength is reduced by 20% (c) for PEI and by 57%
forFigure
PPS (measured
5. Four
Figure 5. Four according
millimeter
millimeter to
samples ISO
samples 178).
of PEI (Top)
of PEI andand
(Top) PPSPPS
(Bottom) before
(Bottom) (a) and
before after
(a) and the the
after aging process
aging process
In
at 250 order
°C; ◦(b)
at 250 to run
after
C; (b) 2.5an
after oxygen
h and
2.5 (c)permeability
(c) after
h and 7.2 7.2
after days. test on the samples after the aging test, the thin film
days.
samples shown in Figure 6 have been obtained from the 4 mm samples in Figure 5. The visible
The mechanical
degradation of theseproperties
samplesof did
the samples
not allow afterrunning
the test have been compared
a permeability with
test, thosethe
since at the start
oxygen
of it as reported
permeability in Table
of the 8, where
material the flexural
was outside of thestrength is reduced
detectable range ofbythe
20% for PEI and by 57% for PPS
instrument.
(measured according to
The degradation ofISO
the 178).
mechanical properties and especially of the oxygen permeability, led to
the conclusion that none of the tested materials (which are the techno-polymers with the best
Flexural mechanical
Table 8. currently
performances properties
on the market) areof suited
the selected
to bematerials
used as before and after the aging
core-insulation test. for the
material
innovative conductor. As a result, although
Flexural leading
Modulus (MPa)to a higher
Flexuraloverall weight
Strength (MPa)increase, it has been
Material
decided to adopt an aluminium shell, since this material has well-known oxygen-shielding and
Before After Before After
temperature resistance properties, without suffering from the degradation detected for polymeric
PEI 3258 2700 110 89
materials.
PPS 2055 2330 70 30

Table 8. Flexural mechanical properties of the selected materials before and after the aging test.
In order to run an oxygen permeability test on the samples after the aging test, the thin film
Flexural Modulus (MPa) Flexural Strength (MPa)
samples shown inMaterial
Figure 6 have been obtained from the 4 mm samples in Figure 5. The visible
Before After Before After
degradation of these samples did not allow running a permeability test, since the oxygen permeability
PEI of the 3258
of the material was outside 2700of the instrument.
detectable range 110 89
PPS 2055 2330 70 30

(a) (b)
Figure 6. Thin
Figure 6. Thin film
film samples
samplesobtained
obtainedfrom
fromthe
the 4 mm
4 mm samples
samples of PEI
of PEI (a) (a)
andand
PPSPPS (b) after
(b) after the aging
the aging test.
test.
The degradation of the mechanical properties and especially of the oxygen permeability, led to the
3.3. Clamping
conclusion thatEquipment
none of thefortested
the Proposed
materialsACCM/TW
(which areConductor
the techno-polymers with the best performances
currently onthe
Part of theresearch
market) concerned
are suited tothebestudy
usedof
asinnovative
core-insulation material
solutions for clamping
for the the innovative conductor.
equipment and
As a result, although leading to a higher overall weight increase, it has been
accessories necessary for the installation of the innovative conductors in transmission OHLs, decided to adopt an
given
aluminium shell, since this material has well-known oxygen-shielding and temperature
its constructive peculiarities. The research has focused only on the direct contact clamping because resistance
properties, without
its improvement suffering
could reducefrom theand
losses degradation
exploit thedetected for conductor’s
innovative polymeric materials.
full potential. By its very
definition, the clamp is an element of mechanical, electrical and chemical discontinuity in the line
conductor and therefore can often be a weak point. The main requirements for a good terminal block
are therefore
 having an electrical conductivity at least equal to that of the conductor with a negligible contact
resistance (to reduce heating of the terminal) and
 avoiding corrosion due to electrolytic torques deriving from contact between metals of different
types.
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 11 of 21

3.3. Clamping Equipment for the Proposed ACCM/TW Conductor

Part of the research concerned the study of innovative solutions for the clamping equipment and
accessories necessary for the installation of the innovative conductors in transmission OHLs, given its
constructive peculiarities. The research has focused only on the direct contact clamping because its
improvement could reduce losses and exploit the innovative conductor’s full potential. By its very
definition, the clamp is an element of mechanical, electrical and chemical discontinuity in the line
conductor and therefore can often be a weak point. The main requirements for a good terminal block
are therefore

• having an electrical conductivity at least equal to that of the conductor with a negligible contact
resistance (to reduce heating of the terminal) and
• avoiding corrosion due to electrolytic torques deriving from contact between metals of
different types.

All the parts with direct contact with the conductor have been designed using a high conductivity
aluminium alloy (EN AW-1050A). In order to contain the corrosion effects, bolts, and nuts have been
designed in austenitic stainless steel, whereas the suspension parts (i.e., not in direct contact with the
conductive
Energies 2019, parts of the
12, x FOR PEER conductor)
REVIEW are realized in aluminium alloy EN AW-44100, having a reduced 11 of 21
copper content.
4. Innovative Conductor for Distribution OHLs
4. Innovative Conductor for Distribution OHLs
For the distribution network, the selected solution is an All Aluminium Alloy Conductor
(AAAC)For the distribution
with network,
low resistivity the selected
or high solution
conductivity is an All
(IACS), andAluminium Alloy Conductor
hence the innovative (AAAC)
conductor has
with low resistivity or high conductivity (IACS), and hence the innovative
been named as Super High Conductivity (AAAC-SHC). An AAAC-SHC conductor with a diameter conductor has been named
as
ofSuper
17.25 High
mm (seeConductivity
Figure 7) has (AAAC-SHC).
been developed An AAAC-SHC conductor with
and its characteristics a diameterwith
are compared of 17.25 mm
the most
(see Figure
similar 7) has been
traditional developed
standard AAACand its characteristics
conductors usedareincompared
the Italianwith the most similar traditional
distribution/subtransmission
standard AAAC conductors used in the Italian distribution/subtransmission
networks (Aldrey 185/37 and AAAC Al 3). The Aldrey 185/37 conductor, networks (Aldrey
together with185/37
other
and AAAC Al 3). The Aldrey 185/37 conductor, together with other commonly
commonly used conductors in the Italian distribution network is considered for the benefit analysis used conductors in
the Italian distribution
in Section 5. As it can be network
seen fromis considered for the benefit
Table 9, although havinganalysis
a reduced in Section 5. As with
cross-section it canreference
be seen
from Table 9, although having a reduced cross-section with reference to Aldrey
to Aldrey 185/37, the innovative conductor presents a lower resistance and a higher ampacity due to 185/37, the innovative
conductor
an increased presents
IACS a(57.3%
lower resistance
versus 53% andin athe
higher ampacity
traditional due
one). to an
The increased IACS
development of the(57.3% versus
AAAC-SHC
53%
17.25inmmthe traditional
conductor one).is theThe development
result of an accurateof the AAAC-SHC
study 17.25 mm
of aluminium alloysconductor is the
properties, in result
terms of of
an accurate study of aluminium alloys properties, in terms of electrical conductivity
electrical conductivity and mechanical properties, together with a careful analysis of chemical and mechanical
properties,
composition together with a carefulofanalysis
and microstructure of chemical
the alloys. composition
This research and microstructure
has permitted of the alloys.
to develop a material with
This research has permitted to develop a material with a higher electrical
a higher electrical conductivity compared to the traditional aluminium alloy used for conductors conductivity compared to
the traditional aluminium alloy used for conductors (AAAC), maintaining the
(AAAC), maintaining the same tensile strength. As it can be seen in Figure 8, the conductivity increase same tensile strength.
As it can
is of be seen
several %IACSin Figure 8, the to
compared conductivity increase
the traditional is of several
aluminium alloy%IACS compared
AL2 (%IACS to the
= 52.5), traditional
AL3 (%IACS
aluminium alloy AL2 (%IACS
= 53), and AL4 (%IACS = 52.9). = 52.5), AL3 (%IACS = 53), and AL4 (%IACS = 52.9).
17.25

.
Figure7.7. Section
Figure Sectionof
ofthe
theAAAC-Super
AAAC-SuperHigh
HighConductivity
Conductivity(SHC)
(SHC)conductor
conductorwith
withdiameter
diameter17.25
17.25mm.
mm.
uctivity (% IACS)
 to Aldrey 185/37, the innovative conductor presents a lower resistance and a higher ampacity due to
an increased IACS (57.3% versus 53% in the traditional one). The development of the AAAC-SHC
17.25 mm conductor is the result of an accurate study of aluminium alloys properties, in terms of
electrical conductivity and mechanical properties, together with a careful analysis of chemical
composition and microstructure of the alloys. This research has permitted to develop a material
Energies 2019, 12, 3107
with
12 of 21
a higher electrical conductivity compared to the traditional aluminium alloy used for conductors
(AAAC), maintaining the same tensile strength. As it can be seen in Figure 8, the conductivity increase
is ofTable 9. Main
several %IACS properties
comparedof the innovative
to the conductor
traditional for distribution
aluminium alloy AL2OHLs compared
(%IACS with
= 52.5), two
AL3 (%IACS
reference traditional conductors.
= 53), and AL4 (%IACS = 52.9).
Aldrey 185/37 AAAC Al 3 AAAC-AL-SHC
Diameter (mm) 17.64 15.25 17.25
Composition (mm) 37 × 2.52 19 × 3.45 19 × 3.45

17.25
Cross-section (mm2 ) 184.5 177.6 177.6
Weight (kg/km) 508.8 488 488
Breaking load (kN) 52.59 52.4 52.4
Rac20 ◦ C (Ω/km) 0.1799 0.1862. 0.1724
IACS 53% 53% 57.3%
Ampacity
Figure 7. Section (A)
of the AAAC-Super 398Conductivity 433
High 450 diameter 17.25 mm.
(SHC) conductor with
Temperature (◦ C) 75 75 75
Conductivity (% IACS)

Tensile strength (MPa)

Figure8.8.Comparison
Figure Comparisonbetween traditional
between alloys
traditional (AL(AL
alloys 2, AL
2, 3,
AL and
3, AL
and4AL
in azure area) and
4 in azure AAAC-SHC.
area) and AAAC-
SHC.
5. Assessment of Benefits from the Installation of Innovative Conductors
In this section, the procedure for assessing the impact of the installation of the innovative
conductors on the Italian network is outlined, and then the methodology is applied to compare the
performance of the innovative conductors introduced in the previous sections with the traditional
ones. The aim is to analyze the benefits resulting from the replacement of the conductors in the line
sections that would not require changes in the support structures, by considering the types introduced
in Section 2.

5.1. Benefit Assessment Methodology

A fully detailed representation of the national power system could be very difficult and, still,
does not remove all sources of errors in building the model, given the necessity of a high detail in the
information needed, not only on the network structure, but, most importantly, on the load trend over a
long period. Furthermore, this effort is not necessary for the scope of this work, which is comparing the
effects on the efficiency of the power lines as a whole. In this work, instead, a simplified approach to
the evaluation of the operative conditions of an OHL is presented in [14] and reported in the following.
The methodology, based on the Ossanna’s theorem [14], under the hypothesis of a symmetric
network and balanced loading on the phases, makes use of the single-phase OHL equivalent to
analytically evaluate the operative state of a line given the complex power at its receiving end, once
the voltage at the sending end is assumed.
By considering the single-phase equivalent in Figure 9a, converted to its per unit representation
in Figure 9b, the current in the vector diagram in Figure 9c is obtained as in (1), as a function of
the receiving end voltage u and complex power s (values in p.u., superscript * stands for complex
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 13 of 21

conjugate). From (2), the relation between complex power and sending end voltage can be written as
in (3), in which the angle γ results from the difference between the impedance argument ψ and the
load angle ϕ.
s∗ 1−u
i = ∗ = jψ (1)
u e
u∗ − u2 = s∗ · e jψ → u · e jδ − u2 − s · e jγ = 0 (2)
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 13 of 21

Z ej I

U0 U S∙ ej

a)
ej
i ux U0=1


u s∙ ej -j
1 uy u=ue
u=U/U0

b) c)

Figure 9.
Figure (a) Single-phase
9. (a) Single-phase equivalent
equivalent of
of an
an OHL
OHL from
from the
the receiving
receiving end,
end, (b)
(b) its
its equivalent
equivalent per
per unit
unit
representation, and (c) vector diagram of the voltage.
representation, and (c) vector diagram of the voltage.

Splitting real
Splitting realand
andimaginary
imaginaryparts of (2)
parts as inas(3)
of (2) init(3)
canitbe seen
can behow,
seenonce
how, theonce
receiving end complex
the receiving end
power is defined, the imaginary part of u
complex power is defined, the imaginary part of u is constant. By solving the first equationreal
is constant. By solving the first equation in (3), the partthe
in (3), is
calculated as in (4), which define the two sending end voltage vectors u’ and u” in
real part is calculated as in (4), which define the two sending end voltage vectors u’ and u” in (5), of (5), of which u’ is
the most
which u’ important,
is the mostgiven the low
important, magnitude
given u”, with the
the lowofmagnitude ofconstraint
u”, with the ξ ≥ constraint
0, which represents
ξ ≥ 0, whichthe
physical feasibility.
represents the physical feasibility. ( 2
ux + u2y − ux + s cos γ = 0
(3)

uyx  0 0
 u x γ s=cos
2 2
−u +usy sin
 (3)


r u y  s sin   0
1 1 1
ux = ± − s cos γ − (s sin γ)2 = ± ξ (4)
2 4 2
u x  2  40 s cos    s sin    2  
1 ( 1 2 1
(4)
u = 12 + ξ − js sin γ
(5)
u00 = 121 − ξ − js sin γ
u '     js sin 
By considering the line representationin Figure2 9a, the well-known relation (5) links the sending (5)
1
bus voltage and current (with subscript 1) to    at
u '' those  js
the 
sinreceiving bus (with subscript 2). Under the
 2
assumption of symmetry and reciprocity of the line model (so that A = D and A D – B C = 1), (6) is
By considering
derived. thenoting
At this point, that U1 = A Uin20Figure
line representation , where9a,U20theiswell-known
the no-load relation
voltage (5) links
at the the sending
receiving end,
bus
and voltage and current
remembering = B/Asubscript
that Z(with 1) to
the current those
I1 can beatwritten
the receiving bus (with subscript 2). Under the
as in (7).
assumption of symmetry and reciprocity ( of the line model (so that A = D and A D – B C = 1), (6) is
derived. At this point, noting that U1 = A U U201, = AU2 U
where +20BIis2 the no-load voltage at the receiving end,
(6)
and remembering that Z = B/A the current I11 can = CU + DI2 as in (7).
be2written
U  AU  BI
U2 =
( 1
AU2 − BI21 (6)
 I 1  CU 21 DI 2 (7)
I2 = −CU1 + DI1
AU1 − U2 UU 2 − AUU1 /A
BI 1 AU20 − U2 /A
I1 = = I 2 1 CU 12 DI 1= (7)
(8)
B B/A Z
AU 1  U 2 U 1  U 2 A AU 20  U 2 A
I1    (8)
B B A Z

If, at this point, the base values are defined as Ub = U20, Sb = Ub2/|Z|, and Zb = Z, the per
unit version of (8) is given by (9). Therefore, the complex power s1 at the sending end of the line is
obtained as in (10), in which  is the argument of A.
u2
s1
* A
A
i1  = (9)
A
*
e j
  (7)
 I 2 = −CU 1 + DI 1

AU 1 − U 2 U 1 − U 2 A AU 20 − U 2 A
I1 = = = (8)
B B A Z
Energies
If, 2019, 12, 3107
at this the base values are defined as Ub = U20, Sb = Ub2/|Z|, and Zb = Z, the
point, 14 of
per21
unit version of (8) is given by (9). Therefore, the complex power s1 at the sending end of the line is
obtained as in (10), in which α is the argument of A.
If, at this point, the base values are defined as Ub = |U20 |, Sb = Ub 2 / |Z|, and Zb = |Z|, the per unit
version of (8) is given by (9). Therefore, the complex power s1 at the sending end of the line is obtained
as in (10), in which α is the argument of A.

u2
s 1 A− A
*
i1 = * = (9)
A e jψ
*
s =（A2 -u e j 2a）e jψ (10)
s11= (A2 − u2 ∗ 2 e j2a )e jψ (10)

By this approach, once the complex power is known at the receiving end and the sending end
voltage is set, the receiving end voltage u2 is obtained using the first equation in (5). At this point, the
power flow on a line can be analytically calculated, since the sending end complex power is given by
(10). This procedure is applied in the following sections to evaluate the Joule losses of the transmission
and distribution OHLs.

5.2. Transmission Grid OHLs

For this network level, the presently installed standard conductors that may be replaced by the
proposed innovative conductor are those reported in Table 10. This is a selection of the OHLs in the
transmission grid having higher resistance per unit length and up to the same breaking load as the
innovative conductor introduced in Section 3.1.

Table 10. Potentially replaceable standard ACSR conductors.

External Breaking Electrical Resistance Thermal Rating Thermal Rating

Cross-Section
Code Diameter Load at 20 ◦ C Current Power
(mm2 )
(mm) (daN) (Ω/km) IR (A) PR (MW)
42/6 + 1 42.41 9 1613 0.6766 175.9 113.4
68/12 + 7 67.69 13.4 6195 0.4266 322.9 208.3
128/26 + 7 127.6 15.85 4909 0.2261 407.1 262.6
191/26 + 7 191.2 19.38 7122 0.1509 531.4 342.8
212/30 + 7 212.0 21 9866 0.1362 589.6 380.3
265/26 + 7 264.6 22.8 9752 0.1090 655.0 422.5

The ampacity (hence the transmission capacity) of the potentially replaceable OHLs has been
determined using the CEI 11–60 standard [31]. The current flow rates at the thermal limit, i.e., the
current value for which the line can be operated for an unlimited period of time with a minimum
probability of discharge and with acceptable aging of the line equipment, are defined in relation to the
type of line, its position in the national territory, the seasonality and the operating conditions. Referring
to Table 11, taken from [31], the current rating of the lines in Table 10 is calculated with reference
to zone “A” (locations with an altitude below 800 m above sea level in central and southern Italy
and the islands) and a seasonal period defined by the standard as 00 Period F00 (cold period, between
October and April). Since the reference conductor for the standard is the unified ACSR with diameter
ϕ = 31.5 mm, it is possible to determine the flow rates for different size conductors by means of (11):

IR = (0.14 · φ2 + 30.8 · φ − 110) · I0 · 10−3 (11)

where the diameter ϕ is expressed in (mm) and the current I0 (deduced from Table 11) is in (A).
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 21

calculated by the procedure explained in [12] and adapted to the operating temperature by means of
the well-known equation

Energies 2019, 12, 3107 r50C  r20C  1   20C  50C  20C   (12)15 of 21

where α20 °C stands for the temperature coefficient of resistance at 20 °C for aluminium in (1/°C),
whereas Table 11. Thermal
an operating limit current of
temperature for 50
the °C
reference conductor
is assumed. as for
This is standard
a mere CEI 11-60 (Adapted
assumption, sincewith
the
permission from [31], CEI, 2005).
conductor’s actual working temperature depends on the thermal regime that is established, as a result
of the current flow, air temperature, and wind ThermalspeedLimitandCurrent
direction with
of the respectConductor
Reference to the line(A)
axis.
In order to build the equivalent single-line model of the OHL, the tower type depicted in Figure
Line Voltage Rating (kV) Zone A Zone B
10 is considered. Along with the distances among the phases and respect to the ground, it can be
Period C Period F Period C Period F
noted that a maximum sag of 10 m is considered in the model. With these assumptions, the electrical
parameters obtained for the 380 OHL equipped with 740 the traditional 985 conductor 680 and with the 770 innovative
220 665 905 610 710
one are reported in the figure as well. It should be noted that the resistance value has been increased
132 ÷ 150 620 870 575 675
by 3% in order to take into account the additional losses due to jumpers and clamping equipment.
Once the electrical parameters of the OHL are calculated, the methodology discussed in Section
5.1 is usedTable 1 shows that,
to determine among
the Joule the ACSR
losses givenconductors
the complex listed
powerin Table 10, theat
withdrawn onethewith higherend
receiving extension
of
on the HV and EHV networks is the 265/26 +
the OHL. By assuming a duration curve of the type in Figure 11 (by hypothesis having the same trend of
7. For this reason, in the following, the assessment
benefits
as the nationalfrom the substitution
typical demand curve), of traditional
the values conductors
are obtained takes
by into accountthe
translating thecurve
total extension
according ofto this
type of conductor
the maximum (443.3
value given bykm).
the above mentioned ampacity evaluation. In this case, as indicated in
Table 10, for this conductor of
To find the value thethe energiespower
maximum lost overis setthe lifetime
at 422.5 MW, of having
the line, it is necessary
assumed a thermalto rating
build the
equivalent
current IR of 655single-phase
A with a power model of the
factor line.(typical
of 0.98 First, the perpower
of the unit length
flows on resistance of the conductor
the transmission grid). is
calculated by the procedure explained in [12] and adapted to the operating
As detailed in [13], the load-duration curve can be discretized in segments having a given temperature by means of
the well-known equation
duration ∆τ, so that the active power loss ∆p is deduced for every load power value and the annual
joule losses (AJL) energy can be calculatedr50◦ C = rby20◦just + α20◦ C (50◦∆p
C · [1multiplying C −by ◦
20theC)]respective time step. At this (12)
point, by assuming
where a constant
α20 ◦ C stands for theelectricity generation
temperature costof
coefficient (40resistance
€/MWh isatused infor
20 ◦ C thisaluminium
study [32]),init(1/
is ◦ C),
possible to have an indication of the Annual◦ Cost of Losses (ACL), calculated as
whereas an operating temperature of 50 C is assumed. This is a mere assumption, since the conductor’s
actual working temperature dependsACL  thermal
on the AJL  CmL regime
(€) that is established, as a result of the current
(13)
flow, air temperature, and wind speed and direction with respect to the line axis.
which can be actualized
In order for equivalent
to build the each year single-line
in the OHL’s model lifetime by means
of the OHL, of a type
the tower discount rate ini (here
depicted Figure 10
assumed as 5%) as in (14):
is considered. Along with the distances among the phases and respect to the ground, it can be noted
that a maximum sag of 10 m is considered inn the model. With these assumptions, the electrical
1 with
i  1
parameters obtained for the OHL AACL 
equipped  ACL
the traditional
(€) conductor and with the innovative
(14)
 be
  noted that the resistance value has been increased
n
i
one are reported in the figure as well. It should1 i
by 3% in order to take into account the additional losses due to jumpers and clamping equipment.

0.95
7.4 7.4

Electrical ACSR
ACCM/TW
Parameters 265/26 + 7

r50°C [Ω/km] 0.1257 0.1021

25
 e [mH/km] 1.3739 1.3544

ce [nF/km] 8.3206 8.4111

15
g [nS/km] 0 0

Figure 10. HV OHL case study: tower layout and per unit length electrical parameters.

Once the 10.

Figure electrical
HV OHL parameters
case study:oftower
the OHL areand
layout calculated, the methodology
per unit length discussed in Section 5.1
electrical parameters.
is used to determine the Joule losses given the complex power withdrawn at the receiving end of the
OHL. By assuming a duration curve of the type in Figure 11 (by hypothesis having the same trend
as the national typical demand curve), the values are obtained by translating the curve according to
the maximum value given by the above mentioned ampacity evaluation. In this case, as indicated in
Table 10, for this conductor the maximum power is set at 422.5 MW, having assumed a thermal rating
current IR of 655 A with a power factor of 0.98 (typical of the power flows on the transmission grid).
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 16 of 21
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 21

Hours (h)

Figure 11.
Figure 11. Duration
Duration curve
curve assumed
assumed for
for the
the HV
HV OHL
OHL case
case study.
study.

In detailed
As Table 12,in the
[13],results for the transmission
the load-duration curve can be OHL equipped
discretized with the having
in segments innovative
a given ACCM/TW
duration
conductor are compared with those obtained with the traditional ACSR conductor.
∆τ, so that the active power loss ∆p is deduced for every load power value and the annual joule losses With the
mentioned assumptions, if the entire extension of the ACSR 22.8 mm conductor on
(AJL) energy can be calculated by just multiplying ∆p by the respective time step. At this point, by the HV and EHV
Italian grids
assuming were replaced
a constant by the
electricity innovative
generation costconductor,
(40 €/MWhthe Joulein
is used power losses[32]),
this study reduction would to
it is possible be
of about 54.3 GWh (–18.8%). This amounts to over 2 million
have an indication of the Annual Cost of Losses (ACL), calculated as of euro in savings every year for reduced
electricity generation needs, which results in an actualized cost (over the 40-year expected OHL
lifetime) of over 37 million of euro. ACL = AJL · CmL (€) (13)
From an environmental point of view, the replacement of the traditional conductor with the
which can beone
innovative actualized
would for eachinyear
result in the OHL’s
a saving lifetime
of 21.187 kt perbyyear
means of of a discount
carbon i (here assumed
rate which
dioxide, becomes
as 5%) asktinin(14):
847.475 the expected 40-years lifetime. These values are obtained considering an emission of 0.39
t/MWh of CO2 [32]. (1 + i)n − 1
AACL = · ACL (€) (14)
i(1 + i)n
In TableTable 12. Comparison
12, the results for between traditional OHL
the transmission and innovative
equipped conductors
with thefor HV OHLs. ACCM/TW
innovative
conductor are compared Losseswith those obtained with the traditional
ACSR ACSR conductor. With
ACMM/TW ∆ the mentioned
∆%
assumptions, if the entire extension
Annual Joule Losses (AJL) of the ACSR
(GWh) 22.8 mm
288.796 conductor on
234.471 the HV and EHV Italian
54.325
grids wereAnnual
replacedCostbyofthe innovative
Losses (ACL) conductor, (M€)the Joule power losses
11.55 9.379reduction2.17
would be of about
–18.81%
54.3Actualized
GWh (−18.8%).
AnnualThis
Costamounts
of Lossesto over 2 million
(AACL) (M€) of euro in savings160.932
198.22 every year for reduced electricity
37.288
generation needs, which results in an actualized cost (over the 40-year expected OHL lifetime) of over
5.3.million
37 Distribution Network OHLs
of euro.
As for the
Tableprevious case, a list
12. Comparison of potentially
between traditional replaceable
and innovativeconductors
conductorshasfor been identified for the
HV OHLs.
distribution network context. The traditional conductors reported in Table 13 are those having higher
Losses and lower breaking load with
per unit length resistance ACSR
respect ACMM/TW
to the innovative ∆ conductor
∆% ones,
among those listedJoule
Annual in the state
Losses of the art. The
(AJL) (GWh)thermal rating current
288.796 IR has 54.325
234.471 been calculated in a
Annual
deterministic wayCost of Losses
(since (ACL) CEI 11–60
the standard (M€) 11.55
is not applicable 9.379and LV 2.17
to MV OHLs) –18.81%
by means of
Actualizeddeveloped
the approach Annual Costby ofShurig
Losses (AACL)
and Frick in (M€)
1930 and 198.22
summarized 160.932 37.288
in [33]. It was decided not to
consider the presence of solar irradiation (assumed equal to 1000 W/m2) in order to have a higher
thermal
Fromrating in the comparison.
an environmental point of view, the replacement of the traditional conductor with the
innovative one would result in actual
As already mentioned, the a savingtrend in electricity
of 21.187 kt per usage
year ofand production
carbon dioxide,will require
which in the
becomes
near future
847.475 kt in athe
reinforcement
expected 40-yearsof the lifetime.
distribution
These network. Increasing
values are obtainedthe conductor’s
considering ancross-section
emission of
would
0.39 then of
t/MWh beCO a solution
2 [32]. for reducing the risk of bottlenecks in the power flow distribution. For this
reason, the traditional conductors included in this study have cross-sections even below the one of
the innovative one (up to 70 mm2), as the innovative conductor may be used as a reinforcement of
these current OHLs.
The tower type for the distribution grid’s case study OHL is depicted in Figure 12, consisting of
a three-phase line with 10.5 m tall towers. As already mentioned in Section 4, the closest match with
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 17 of 21

5.3. Distribution Network OHLs

As for the previous case, a list of potentially replaceable conductors has been identified for the
distribution network context. The traditional conductors reported in Table 13 are those having higher
per unit length resistance and lower breaking load with respect to the innovative conductor ones,
among those listed in the state of the art. The thermal rating current IR has been calculated in a
deterministic way (since the standard CEI 11–60 is not applicable to MV and LV OHLs) by means of
the approach developed by Shurig and Frick in 1930 and summarized in [33]. It was decided not to
consider the presence of solar irradiation (assumed equal to 1000 W/m2 ) in order to have a higher
thermal rating in the comparison.

Table 13. Potentially replaceable distribution network conductors.

Potential Potential
Thermal Potential
External Breaking Resistance Losses CO2
Cross-Section Rating Losses
Material Code Diameter Load at 20 ◦ C Cost Emissions
(mm2 ) Current Reduction
(mm) (daN) (Ohm/km) Savings Reduction
IR (A) (%)
(M€) (kt)
70/19 68.34 10.7 27.33 0.2678 281 35.80 16.820 420.541
Copper
95/19 94.76 12.6 37.9 0.1831 357 5.81 3.000 75.191
70/19 68.34 10.7 11.69 0.421 224 59.30 2.300 22.514
Aluminium 95/19 93.27 12.5 15.59 0.3085 274 44.40 1.890 18.436
120/19 125.50 14.5 20.03 0.2292 332 24.91 1.157 11.282
70/19 68.34 10.7 19.48 0.484 209 64.70 10.500 102.065
95/19 94.76 12.6 27.01 0.3491 258 50.90 0.490 4.758
Aldrey 120/19 125.50 14.5 35.77 0.2636 310 34.80 0.360 3.544
150/37 147.10 15.75 41.93 0.2253 344 23.60 0.260 2.5285
185/37 184.50 17.64 52.59 0.1797 398 4.00 0.047 0.457
68/12 + 7 67.69 13.4 61.95 0.4266 238 59.90 5.200 50.771
ACSR
128/26 + 7 127.60 15.85 49.09 0.2261 344 23.9 12.12 118.127

As already mentioned, the actual trend in electricity usage and production will require in the
near future a reinforcement of the distribution network. Increasing the conductor’s cross-section
would then be a solution for reducing the risk of bottlenecks in the power flow distribution. For this
reason, the traditional conductors included in this study have cross-sections even below the one of the
innovative one (up to 70 mm2 ), as the innovative conductor may be used as a reinforcement of these
current OHLs.
The tower type for the distribution grid’s case study OHL is depicted in Figure 12, consisting of a
three-phase line with 10.5 m tall towers. As already mentioned in Section 4, the closest match with the
standard conductors presently installed, listed in Table 13, is the Aldrey 185/37 having a diameter of
17.64 mm and a cross-section of 184.5 mm2 . The parameters for the single-line equivalent circuit of
the OHL are reported in Figure 12 for both the reference standard conductor and the innovative one.
The duration curve of the line load is reported in Figure 13, scaled according to the line thermal rating
power in Table 13.
The results of the benefit analysis methodology discussed in Section 5.1 are detailed in comparison
with the reference Aldrey conductor in Table 14. Replacing the total extension of the traditional Aldrey
conductor would result in a Joule power losses reduction on a yearly basis of 1.17 GWh, corresponding
to a decrease by 4%. The estimated cost saving is about 47 k€ per year, which corresponds to an
actualized cost reduction of 804 k€ (with the same assumptions about OHL lifetime and discount rate
as in the previous section). The potential CO2 emissions savings is estimated as 457 t per year.
 150/37 147.10 15.75 41.93 0.2253 344 23.60 0.260 2.5285
185/37 184.50 17.64 52.59 0.1797 398 4.00 0.047 0.457
68/12
67.69 13.4 61.95 0.4266 238 59.90 5.200 50.771
+7
ACSR
128/26
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 127.60 15.85 49.09 0.2261 344 23.9 12.12 18 of 21
118.127
+7

0.88
0.62

1.25

Electrical
Aldrey 185/37 ACCC-SHC
Parameters

10.50 r50°C [Ω/km] 0.2073 0.1991

 e [mH/km] 0.988 0.996

ce [nF/km] 11.856 11.730

g [nS/km] 0 0

Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW

Figure 12. MV line case study tower layout. 18 of 21

Hours (h)

Figure 13. Duration curve assumed for the distribution OHL case study.
Figure 13. Duration curve assumed for the distribution OHL case study.

The results of Comparison

Table 14. the benefit between
analysistraditional
methodology discussed
and innovative in Section
conductors for HV 5.1 are detailed in
OHLs.
comparison with the reference Aldrey conductor in Table 14. Replacing the total extension of the
Aldrey 185/37 AAAC-SHC ∆ ∆%
traditional Aldrey conductor would result in a Joule power losses reduction on a yearly basis of 1.17
Annual Joule
GWh, corresponding toLosses (AJL) by 4%. The
a decrease (GWh)
estimated 29.316 28.146 47 k€ 1.170
cost saving is about per year, which
Annual Cost of Losses (ACL) (M€) 1.173 1.126 0.047 –4%
corresponds to an actualized cost reduction of 804 k€ (with the same assumptions about OHL lifetime
Actualized Annual Cost of Losses (AACL) (M€) 20.122 19.318 0.804
and discount rate as in the previous section). The potential CO2 emissions savings is estimated as 457
t per year.
As discussed in Section 2, the majority of Italian distribution OHLs is still equipped with copper
conductors rather
Table than with aluminium
14. Comparison betweenones. By considering
traditional all the
and innovative replaceable
conductors for conductors
HV OHLs. in Table 13,
their total extension in the distribution networks (MV and LV) in Italy is about 14% of the total
Aldrey 185/37 AAAC-SHC ∆ ∆%
191,888 km (i.e., about 27,000 km). Table 15 reports the results of the cost analysis described in
Annual Joule Losses (AJL) (GWh)
Section 5.1 for all the distribution network conductors considered 29.316in the study.
28.146 1.170 these OHL
Replacing
Annual
conductors would Cost
lead to of Losses (ACL)of Joule power
a containment (M€) losses1.173
by 28.3% on a1.126 0.047(1354
yearly basis –4%GWh),
with aActualized
possible cost reduction of about 54 M€ (AACL
Annual Cost of Losses (AACL) (M€) reduction of 929
20.122 M€) and a potential
19.318 0.804 2 emission
CO
reduction of about 830 kt each year.
As discussed in Section 2, the majority of Italian distribution OHLs is still equipped with copper
conductors rather than with aluminium ones. By considering all the replaceable conductors in Table
13, their total extension in the distribution networks (MV and LV) in Italy is about 14% of the total
191,888 km (i.e., about 27,000 km). Table 15 reports the results of the cost analysis described in Section
5.1 for all the distribution network conductors considered in the study. Replacing these OHL
conductors would lead to a containment of Joule power losses by 28.3% on a yearly basis (1354 GWh),
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 19 of 21

Table 15. Total cost for each traditional conductor in the study and expected benefit using the
innovative one.

AJL ACL AACL CO2 Emissions Joule Losses Potential

Material Code
(GWh) (M€) (M€) Saving (kt) Reduction (%)
70/19 1174.173 46.967 805.900 420.541 35.8%
Copper
95/19 1294.695 51.797 888.600 75.191 5.8%
70/19 97.283 3.891 66.785 22.514 59.3%
Aluminium 95/19 106.552 4.262 73.133 18.436 44.4%
120/19 116.131 4.645 78.708 11.282 24.9%
70/19 404.604 16.184 277.705 102.065 64.7%
95/19 23.973 0.959 16.454 4.758 50.9%
Aldrey 120/19 26.112 1.044 17.922 3.544 34.8%
150/37 27.472 1.099 18.855 2.5285 23.6%
185/37 29.316 1.173 20.122 0.457 4.0%
68/12 + 7 217.335 8.693 149.171 50.771 59.9%
ACSR
128/26 + 7 1268.931 50.757 870.948 118.127 23.9%
Total 4786.577 191.471 3284.303 830.215 28.3%

6. Conclusions
The current trend in the electricity usage and production and the expected developments in the
near future will lead to reinforcements in both the transmission and distribution grids, to reduce the
risk of bottlenecks and improve the energy efficiency of the power system. The CALAJOULE project,
funded as part of the Italian “Ricerca di Sistema” program, has produced significant results in the
development and analysis of new conductors for overhead lines at HV and MV level.
The scope of this paper is to show all the chief findings of the three-year research and chiefly
the expected benefits coming from the adoption of such innovative conductors in both transmission
and distribution grids, with reference to the presently installed OHL conductors. The paper shows a
methodology adopted in the project to evaluate the potential benefits resulting from the usage of the
innovative conductors in place of the standard ones. Under some working assumptions (i.e., 40 year
OHL lifetime, fixed price of electricity, CO2 emission known, and constant per MWh), the results show
a strong, positive impact on the Italian electricity system which could also be replicated, with due
distinctions, for other electric grids.
The actualized cost saving for reduced Joule losses in the HV network is estimated in about 37 M€,
with a corresponding CO2 avoided emission of 847 kt on yearly basis. For the distribution network, by
considering a potential reinforcement of the current OHLs with conductors having cross-sections up to
70 mm2 , the results have shown an actualized cost reduction of 929 M€ with a CO2 emission avoidance
of 830 kt per year. It is worth noting that a mere investment cost comparison has not been investigated
in this research. However, the investment cost of the distribution novel conductor is comparable with
traditional Aldrey one. With regard to the transmission novel conductor, the investment cost is greater
than traditional ACSR, but, as demonstrated in the paper, the return on the investment is assured
by the savings obtained by less energy losses during the entire OHL lifetime. Hence, the developed
prototype is more convenient than a traditional conductor in a long-term perspective.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, R.B.; Formal analysis, R.B. and S.D.S.; Funding acquisition, R.B.;
Investigation, R.B., A.C., C.G., S.D.S., D.M., M.M. and F.P.; Supervision, R.B., R.C. and L.M.; Validation, R.B.;
Writing-original draft, M.C.; Writing-review & editing, R.B., C.G., S.D.S., D.M., M.M. and F.P.
Funding: This research was funded by Ministry of Economic Development in the framework of the Ricerca di
Sistema Programme, grant number CCSEB_00176.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Energies 2019, 12, 3107 20 of 21

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