Simulation-based analysis of electric field characteristics under high-voltage double-circuit and quadrupole overhead transmission lines

Abstract

This study evaluates the electric field (EF) distribution beneath 132 kV and 275 kV overhead transmission lines (OTLs) and investigates the effects of transmission voltage, line configuration, and conductor transposition. Two-dimensional simulations using ANSYS Electronics at 50 Hz show that the 275 kV OTL produced peak EF values over 800 V/m, compared to 300–400 V/m for the 132 kV OTL. EF intensity was highest directly beneath the conductors, decreasing with distance. Conductor transposition improved voltage balance, resulting in a more uniform EF distribution. Multi-circuit configurations, such as double-circuit 132 kV and quadruple-circuit (275 kV + 132 kV), reduced EF intensity to 400–700 V/m. These findings highlight the role of transmission voltage and line configuration in reducing ground-level EF exposure and optimizing OTL designs for safety and environmental compatibility.