When to Use overhead line fittings？

1. EN –1: Overhead electrical lines exceeding AC 45 kV. Part 1: General Requirements – Common specifications. Brussels, CENELEC,

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2. EN –3-4: Overhead electrical lines exceeding AC 45 kV. Part 3–4: National Normative Aspects for Germany. Brussels, CENELEC,

3. EN : Overhead lines – Requirements and tests for fittings (IEC ). Brussels, CENELEC,

4. Ann, W. et al.: Insulators and fittings of the new 380 kV river Elbe crossing of Nordwestdeutsche Kraftwerke AG. Schwabach, JHW-RIBE Information No. 15e,

5. Biedenbach, G. et al.: Die Tragklemme der Hochspannungs-Freileitung (Suspension clamps for high-voltage overhead lines). etz-Report 31, Berlin-Offenbach, VDE-Verlag GmbH,

6. Cigré SC22 VG22–11: Guide to fittings for optical cables on transmission lines. Part 1: Selection and use. Electra 176 (), pp. 55 to 66

7. Giray, M.; Kießling, F.: Selection and rating of conductors, insulators and fittings for a 380 kV transmission line across the Bosphorus. Translation from Elcktrizitätswirtschaft 83 (), pp. 893to 903, Siemens Energy A-C433-A871-X-

8. Cigré SC22 WG22–06: Load control devices on overhead transmission lines. Paris, Cigré Brochure 174,

9. Möcks, L.: Das Verhalten des Leiterseiles unter dem Einfiuss der Armaturen (Behaviour of conductors under the impact of fittings). Elektrizitätswirtschaft 68 (), pp. 336 to 341

10. DIN : Turnbuckles for overhead power lines. Berlin, DIN,

11. EN : Overhead lines – Requirements and tests for spacers (IEC ). Brussels, CENELEC,

12. Möcks, L.: Damping of high-voltage overhead line conductor vibrations. etz-Report 15, Berlin-Offenbach, VDE-Verlag GmbH

13. Cigré SC22 WG22–01: Report on aeolian vibration. Electra 124 (), pp. 41 to 77

14. EN (VDE Teil 3): Overhead lines – Requirements and tests for Stockbridge-type aeolian vibration dampers (IEC ). Brussels, CENELEC,

15. IEC : Dimensions of ball-and-socket coupling of string insulator units. Geneva, IEC,

16. IEC : Dimensions of clevis and tongue couplings of string insulator units. Geneva, IEC,

17. IEC –1: Locking devices for ball and socket couplings of string

18. BS 137: Specification for insulators of ceramic material or glass for overhead lines with a nominal voltage greater than V. Part 2: Requirements. London, BSI,

19. Bauer, E. et al.: Dynamic process during load transposition in multiple sets with long-rod-type insulators. Cigré Report 22–03,

20. Hagedorn, P.; Idelberger, H.; Möcks, L.: Dynamische Vorgänge bei Lastumlagerungen in Abspannketten von Freileitungen (Dynamic phenomena occurring during load transposition in dead-end insulator sets of overhead lines). etz archive Volume 2, Report 4. Berlin-Offenbach, VDE-Verlag GmbH,

21. EN ISO : Hot-dip galvanized coatings on iron and steel articles. Specifications and test methods (ISO ). Brussels, CEN,

22. EN ISO : Protection against corrosion in iron and steel. Zinc and aluminium coatings – Guidelines (ISO ). Brussels, CEN,

    Further reading:
    Advantages of Forged Steel Fittings Versus Other Processes

    Electric Powertek Product Page

23. EN ISO : Quality systems. Model for quality assurance and design, development, production, installation and servicing (ISO ). Brussels, CEN,

24. EN ISO : Quality systems. Model for quality assurance and production, installation and servicing (ISO ). Brussels, CEN,

25. EN ISO : Quality systems. Model for quality assurance and final inspection and tests (ISO ). Brussels, CEN,

26. ISO –1: Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes – Part 1: Sampling schemes indexed by acceptance, quality limit (AQL) for lot-by-lot inspection. Geneva, ISO,

27. ISO –2: Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes – Part 2: Sampling plans indexed by limiting quality (LQ) for isolated lot inspection. Geneva, ISO,

28. ISO : Sampling procedures and charts for inspection by variables for percent nonconforming. Geneva, ISO,

29. Cigré SC22 WG22–11: Guide to fittings for optical cables on transmission lines. Part 2A: Testing procedures. Optical ground wire fittings and optical phase conductor fittings. Electra 188 (), pp. 42 to 53

1. Introduction

Power line fittings are the unsung heroes of modern electrical infrastructure. These small but vital components are critical in securing overhead transmission lines, ensuring mechanical stability, electrical safety, and efficient power delivery across vast distances. Without high-quality, durable power line fittings, the reliable transmission of electricity over miles of towers would be impossible.
This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about power line fittings, including their definitions, essential functions, common types, and key factors to consider when selecting the right fittings for your project. Whether you are a utility engineer responsible for line maintenance, a transmission system designer planning new infrastructure, or a supplier of power hardware, this resource will equip you with the expert knowledge to make informed decisions and enhance power line reliability.

3. Why Power Line Fittings Are Important

3.1 Safety and Stability

Faulty or low-quality power accessories can lead to mechanical failure, line collapse, or even electrical outages. Properly installed electric power line fittings for overhead transmission provide structural stability, reduce sagging, and prevent arc flash or conductor drop.

3.2 Efficiency and Longevity of Power Lines

Well-engineered utility hardware improves current flow and minimizes transmission loss. Quality fittings also extend the lifespan of lines by resisting UV, corrosion, vibration, and extreme weather conditions.

4. What Type of Power Line Fittings?

4.1 Dead End Clamp

Dead-end clamps are used at terminal poles to anchor conductors securely. These electrical cable fittings bear full tension and are critical in maintaining conductor alignment.

To explore the technical depth of dead-end clamps, check out our dedicated blog: The Ultimate Guide to Dead-End Clamp.

For product details, specifications, and models, visit our official product page: Dead End Clamp – Aerial Cable Accessories.

4.2 Suspension Clamp

Suspension clamps are commonly used on straight-line poles to support conductors without bearing the full tension of the line. They play a crucial role in maintaining the proper sag of conductors, ensuring mechanical stability and electrical safety. As a fundamental component of overhead line fittings—especially for ABC cables—suspension clamps help optimize the performance and longevity of power lines. For a deeper dive into the types, installation methods, and benefits of suspension clamps, you can refer to our detailed guide on suspension clamps for overhead lines.

4.3 Strain Clamp

Used in angled or terminal structures, strain clamps help secure conductors under mechanical tension. These are common in high-tension pole-line hardware setups.

4.4 Clevis, Eye Nut, Brackets

These aerial line fittings are mechanical connectors that link insulators to other accessories. They offer flexibility and structural support in different parts of the power line.

4.5 Grounding Accessories

Grounding accessories like earthing clamps and grounding rods are essential for dissipating fault current safely. The importance of grounding accessories in power lines cannot be overstated—they protect systems and people from electrical hazards.

4.6 Other Specialized Fittings

These include:

• Spacers: Prevent conductor clash on multi-bundle lines
• Dampers: Reduce vibration-induced fatigue
• Connectors and Splices: Ensure continuous electrical flow
• Arcing Horns: Protect insulators from flashover. These transmission line connectors add extra reliability under stress conditions.

6. Conclusion

Power Line Fittings are more than just nuts and bolts—they’re foundational elements of any power transmission system. From dead end clamps to grounding accessories, each fitting plays a role in keeping electricity flowing safely and efficiently.

Whether you’re building a new transmission line or maintaining an existing grid, understanding the types and selection criteria of overhead line fittings can dramatically improve the performance and reliability of your system. Always choose quality, consult specifications, and work with reputable electric power fittings suppliers.

When you get your power accessories right, you’re not just building infrastructure—you’re powering a safer, more reliable world.