On the Assessment and Mitigation of Vortex-Induced-Vibrations of Overhead Electrical Conductors

In the present work, an extension of the Energy Balance Method (EBM) is investigated, by considering both the dynamic interaction between a conductor and the support system, and the coupling in the dynamic response of two adjacent spans. The presence of dampers in each span to control aeolian vibrations is also taken into account. The modal properties of the line are studied within a rigorous mathematical setting and used as the input to apply the EBM. The parameters that control the dynamics of the structural system are clearly identified, paving the way to the definition of simple yet effective criteria for the design of the mechanical characteristics of the damping devices connected to the line. The proposed procedure allows also to investigate the effects of energy dissipation within flexible supports.