Computation and analysis of the electric field distribution and voltage-sharing characteristics for 1000 kV composite tower

Composite towers have advantages in saving line corridors, light weight, easy transportation, and good electrical insulation properties attracting increasing attention from researchers. The 1000 kV composite tower adopts partial insulation design, and part of the tower will be replaced with composite material. Due to its high voltage level and complex structure, potential and electric field sharing problems are serious, further research is highly necessary. In this paper, applying three dimension finite element method, the voltage and electric distribution of 1000 kV composite tower has been calculated; the potential distribution of 1000 kV composite tower is compared with 1000 kV line tower. The results show that the potential distribution of 1000 kV composite tower is superior to the potential distribution of 1000 kV line tower. The initial design of the 1000 kV composite tower can't meet the critical requirements for the electric field strength. After optimization, the maximum electric field strength on key location of composite tower is below control value. The research achievements provide basis for the application of new composite tower, and ensuring the safety and reliability of UHV transmission lines.