The Ratcliffe-Nottingham line consists of 34 L7 (J.L. Eve) type towers with a mixture of single and twin conductor, and was due for refurbishment.
Western Power Distribution sought to understand the constraints and the requirements to modernise the line to meet growing network demand. The scope included identifying suitable conductors, calculating how the conductors would affect the existing towers and identifying what remedial works would be needed. To facilitate the study, Groundline first carried out an on-site inspection. Particular attention was paid to tower access and hazards along the route, and Non-Destructive Transient Dynamic Response (TDR) testing was undertaken to understand the condition of the existing foundations.
Groundline produced preliminary MVA calculations to determine conductor options that would meet Western Power Distribution’s needs. Once the conductor was agreed upon, Groundline produced multiple design documents and drawings so Western Power Distribution would understand the feasibility of the new conductor. These were then used to create modernisation recommendations and the resulting report.
Western Power Distribution then provided the report and associated documents to their construction framework partners to assist them with tendering for the detailed design works.
