Numerical model of large spatial deflections of bundled conductors in electrical substations

To evaluate the bundled conductors’ spatial configurations and terminal forces used in electrical substations, this paper presents a parametric model based on the modification of a chained spatial-beam constraint model, which simulates a flexible conductor. The primary considerations are the bending stiffness of the subconductors, the spatial effects of spacers and the out-of-plane mechanical performance of the bundled conductor. The model was validated by finite element analyses and a static test. Numerical investigations followed based on the mechanical behavior of the bundled conductor. Considering the bending stiffness, the bundled conductor with sufficient slackness is presented in its compressive state. Within the range of the seismic displacement in ultra-high voltage electrical equipment, the out-of-plane terminal forces are much less than the in-plane values. Moreover, the subconductor with greater bending stiffness and less slackness is able to generate greater out-of-plane terminal forces.