Sensitivity study for finite element analysis on wind distribution surrounding transmission line corridors with consideration of turbulent flow

Dynamic Thermal Rating (DTR) can effectively increase the overhead line ampacity by accurately evaluate the temperature and wind speed surrounding it. This is critical especially when more and more renewable sources are connected to the power network, and the new power flow distribution imposed significant pressure to the existing electricity network. This article focuses on the method of computing the fluid flow speed surrounding Overhead Line (OHL) conductors. Turbulent flow is taken into consideration by three-dimensional finite element analysis for the first time. The results are summarized, and it is proved that the model with consideration of turbulent flow gives better estimation of the wind speed distribution therefore thermal dissipation. It is concluded that this detailed modeling can help to improve the accuracy of DTR determination for OHL conductors.