Sky wire is essentially an earth wire specifically used in electrical transmission systems.
Based on the provided reference, the sky wire is a vital component in the infrastructure of electrical transmission. It is identified as a earth wire of the transmission system which runs along with the transmission lines.
Purpose and Function
The primary role of the sky wire is protection. It is strategically placed above or alongside the main power conductors of transmission lines to act as a shield.
Its key functions include:
- Protection from Lightning Strokes: The sky wire is the first point of contact for lightning strikes on the transmission line route. Being connected to the earth, it provides a path for the massive current of a lightning discharge to safely dissipate into the ground, thereby protecting the energized power conductors below from direct strikes.
- Protection of Substation Equipment: By diverting lightning surges, the sky wire helps safeguard sensitive and expensive equipment located in substations from the heavy surge voltages that can result from lightning strikes impacting the transmission lines feeding into them.
In essence, the sky wire functions as a sacrificial element, taking the brunt of atmospheric electrical discharges to ensure the continuity and safety of the power transmission network and associated equipment. It's a passive but crucial safety feature in high-voltage transmission systems.
To illustrate its protective function:
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Earth wire / Ground wire | Provides path to ground for electrical surges |
| Location | Runs along with transmission lines, usually above or beside them | Acts as the first point of contact for lightning |
| Primary Role | Protection | Safeguards power conductors, substation equipment, and ensures grid stability |
By running along with the power conductors, often along the very top of the transmission towers, the sky wire effectively creates a protective zone. When lightning strikes, it is far more likely to hit the sky wire than the lower power lines, channeling the potentially destructive energy away from the vital parts of the system.
