Enhancement of overhead transmission line capacity through evolutionary computing

Abstract

Most human activities depend on electrical systems. Thereby, energy that flows toward the electrical systems has to be conducted through transmission lines. However, conventional lines are limited by their natural power capacity. Thus, this paper proposes a mathematical model to be used with evolutionary computing in order to optimize the overhead transmission line power capacity. This enhancement is achieved by modifying the position of phase conductors in overhead transmission lines. Electrical and mechanical aspects are analyzed during the optimization process. Depending on the voltage level, different tower configurations with higher power capacity and lesser right of way are obtained, being more friendly with the environment. In $500~\mathrm {k}\mathrm {V}$ were obtained geometries with 20.89% to 105.13% higher power capacity than conventional lines. Compared with previous approaches the model shows good results obtaining solutions with similar or higher power capacity. Thus, the obtained geometries can be used in new transmission line projects when a higher transmission capacity and lesser right of way is desired.