• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    A method and apparatus for protecting electrical power transmissions systems that may or may not be energized. A two part resin composition acting as a dielectric material is distributed on electrical power systems at a location close to the transmissions systems. The dielectric material has dielectric properties suitable for protecting the desired areas in the solid form and that allow for safe application in the liquid form. The dielectric material can be distributed before installation of the electric lines or can be retrofitted to existing installations.
    公开号:CA2479416A1
    申请号:C2479416
    申请日:2004-08-10
    公开日:2006-01-21
    发明作者:Martin S. Niles
    申请人:Great Canadian Shield Corp；
    IPC主号:H01B19-04
    专利说明:
    [1" class="description-paragraph] PROTECTION OF ELECTRICAL P(7WER TRANSMISSION SYSTEMSBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION001 The invention relates to the field of electrical power transmission and distribution and the need to insulate electrical power lines from short circuits caused. by birds and other animals. Mare particularly, the invention relates to an insulation method and mavterial for coating selected portions of the strueriires suppor ting wires such as electrical transmission lines and related components.002 Long-distance electricity transmission is typically carri~l with high voltage conductors.Higher voltages reduce resistance ewer loss, and line voltage for long distance lines is stepped up with generating stations at selected locations. Transmission lines traverse large regions and require numerous support towers. The conductors in high tension powerlines are typically uninsulated because of the cost and additional weight of insulaxed versus unin,~~ulated conductors.003 Electric poles and towers provide attractive roasts for birds, particularly in treeless regions.If the wings of a bird simultaneously contact a transmission line and another object such as an adjacent wire, support tower or try, the resulting electrical short-circuit can kill the bird and also damage the power system. The electrical short can furkher cause electrical system damage resulting in power outages. Because large (and typically protected) birds are more susceptible to such incidental contact, el~trocution hazards disproportionately affect large bird species such as raptors.004 The variety and number of proposed solutions for repelling birds and other animals from electrocution risks highlights the persistence and magnitude o:f the problems created by such undesirable intrusion. Many different types of scarecrows and other moving devices have been developed to repel birds. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,131,079 to Rousseau et al. (1978) disclosed a wind operable scarecrow. U.S. Pat. No. 4,185,581 to Tilton (1980) disclosed a weight responsive perch far scaring birds. U.S. Pat. No. 4,597,357 to LeMessurier (1986) disclosed a movable aluminium sheet for scaring birds. U.S. Pat. °1o. 4,598,660 to Konzak (1986 disclosed an air gun for releasing a gas stream to scare birds. U.S. Pat. No. 4,656,770 to Nuttle (1987) disclosed a tiger cat weathervane. U.S. Pat. No. 4,937,988 to Gratton et al. (1990) disclosed a barrier to birds formed
    [2" class="description-paragraph] 2 with monofilament line. U.S. Pat. No. 4,962,619 to Chatters (1990} disclosed a coiled wire having movable elongate flaps. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,343,651 (1994) and 5,452,536 (1995) to Chasten disclosed a rotating carriage propelled by wind for repelling birds. U.S. Pat. No. D0359099 to Sugimoto (1995) disclosed a windmill for scaring birds, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,713,160 to Heron (1998}disclosed a retractable bird deterring device.005 In addition to moving devices, various physical structures have been developed to discourage birds from roosting on structures. U.S. Pat. No. 3,407,550 to Shaw et al. (1968) disclosed spikes attached to a mounting structure. U.S. Pat. No: 4,269,008 to Assouline (1981) disclosed optical pyramid structures for generating prisms to scare birds. U.S. Pat. No. 4,845,307 to Cuninning et al. (1989) disclosed a high density polyethylene wildlife guard for shielding electrical conductors at the point of attachment to an insulator bushing, and further described prior difficulties in creating an effective physical guard for such conductors. U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,335 to Richter (1991) disclosed flexa'ble plastic fingers attachable to a wire fir deterring birds. U.S. Pat. No.5,092,088 to Way (1992) disclosed a bird deterring device having retractable wires. U.S. Pat. No.5,253,444 to Donoho et al. (1993) disclosed a base having spike'; for repelling birds, and U.S. Pat.No. 5,433,029 to Donoho et al. (1995) disclosed a channel member for clamping onto an electrical wire. U.S. Pat. No. 5,4,552 to Negre (1995} disclosed a channel base having multiple spikes far repelling birds. U.S. Pat. No. 5,454,183 to Antonini et al. (1995} disclosed a resilient base engaged with two wire mesh sections for repelling birds. U.S. Pat. No. 5,691,032 to Trueblood et al. (1997) disclosed a base having a plurality of bird repelling slots and arms extending from the base. U.S.Pat. No. 5,606,830 to Townsend, Jr. et al. disclosed grid fencing panels for attachment to electric cables or wires. U.S. Pat. No. 6,250,023 to Donoho (2001) disclosed a base having spikes fox discouraging birds.006 Other bird repelling concepts use electricity or magnetics to discourage bird intrusion. U.S.Pat. No. 5,255,896 to Letarte et al. (1993) disclosed an electrified fence for repelling birds. U.S. Pat.No. 5,353,543 to Teraoka (1994) disclosed a rotating magnetic field for repelling birds. U.S. Pat.No. 5,666,76 to Ohba (1997) disclosed a magna activated by the weight of a bird to generate a bird discouraging magnetic field. U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,641 to Guthrie (1997) disclosed an
    [3" class="description-paragraph] 3 electrostatically charged animal barner. U.S. Patr No. 5,884,426 to Ishida (1999) disclosed a wind movable magnet for generating a bird discouraging magnetic field. U.S. Pat. No. 6,006,698 to Negre {1999) disclosed electri~ed rails for generating vz'brations for discouraging birds. U.S. Pat.No. 6,016,100 to Boyd et al. (2000) disclosed a device for generating an oscillating ultrasonic animal deterrent signal. U.S. Pat. No. b,250,255 to Lenbardt et al. {200I) disclosed techniques which pulsated nucrowaves or sound waves to repel birds.007 Shield and cage devices have been specifically designed to restrict birds and other animals from short-circuiting electrical leads. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,845,307 to Gumming et al.{1989) disclosed a high density polyethylene skirt for covering insulator bushings. U.S. Pat. No.5,153,383 to Whited et al. {1992) disclosed a flexible sheet of PVC material attached with VELCRQ strips for shielding electrical equipment. U.S. Pat. No. 6,005,196 to Spillyards (1999) disclosed a spring biased cage far covering an insulator bushing. U.S. Pat. No. 5,864,096 to Williams et al. (1999) disclosed a wildlife guard comprising a disk. U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,956 to Cook et al. (2001) disclosed an atmuiar guard for shielding a high voltage insulator.008 Materials have been developed to resist animal damage. In one exaoarple, U.S. Pat. No.5,997,894 to Blum et al. {1999) disclosed a coating composition resistant to animals which comprised a hard, ceramic particle laden material for protecting underground wires and cables from rodents.009 Various chemicals have been used to repel birds from an area or st~eture. U.S, Pat. No.3,734,875 to Sekuler (1973) disclosed an aemsol bird repellent. U.S. Pat. No.
    [4" class="description-paragraph] 4,693,889 to Chiichirillo et al. (198'n disclosed a bird repellea~t composition formulated to limit stains to the structure treated. U.S. Pat. No. 5,196,451 to Greig-Smith et al. (I993), U.S. Pat. No. 5,296,226 to A,skham (I994), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,549,902 to Preiser et al. (1996) disclosed other bird repellent compositions.010 U.S. Pat. Na. 6,226,933 to Nelson et al. disclosed a configurable sheath for protecting stt~uctures such as wires wherein the sheath could incorporate passive or active components (such as chemical repellents) for repelling animals such as birds. Nelson et al. disclosed spikes, engaged with a protective sheath, which released a noxious chemical following activation of the spikes by a bird or other animal. Nelson further disclosed that the spikes could be attached to the structure or integrated within a base material attached to the structure.011 Another technique using chemical compounds to repel birds was disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,873,082 to Cacioli et al. (1989) wherein a mufti-layer coating comprised a brittle, polystyrene protective cover over a tacky, bird repellent layer. The outer layer prevented the accumulation of dust on the inner tacky layer. When the brittle protective cover was disturbed by a bird a noxious, bird repellent composition was released to repel the intruding bird:Oi2 The variety and number of these efforts indicate significant problems in the exclusion of birds from undesirable areas, and the inherent difficulties in effectively accomplishing such exclusion. Many of these techniques are expensive to employ and are ineffective in preventing birds from landing in a particular spot. A need exists for an improved method and apparatus capable of resisting electrical wire short circuits deleterious to birds and othe~.~ animals. SUlIwiARY OF THE INVENTION013 There is therefore provided, according to an aspect of the invention, a method of pxotecting electrical power transmissions systems, for example that conduct voltages in the range of 10 KV to 60 KV, from damage. The method comprising the steps of mixing a two part resin composition such as a composition formed from polyurethane and polyurea at the point of use to form a liquid composite, applying the liquid cc~mposi#e to a component of an electrical power transmission system, and curing the liquid composite to form a coating for the component.014 According to a fiuther aspect of the invention, there is provided a further method of protecting electrical power transmissions systems from damage. The method comprises the steps of identifyixrg an area of the electrical power transmissions system to be protected; selecting a dielectric ma#erial having a liquud form and a solid form, where the dielectric material has dielectric properties suitable far protecting the identified areas in the solid form, and where the dielectric material has dielectric properties suitable to allour for safe application in the liquid farm; applying the dielectric material in the liquid form to the identified areas; and allowing the dielectric material to convert from the liquid form to the solid foan An applicator may be used to apply the dielectric material comprising a dielectric material supply connected to a delivery sub-system.015 The methods as described may be carried out at an electric power sub-station using portable equipment, and may be applied to an electrified component of an electrical power transmission system. The method may further comprise the step of calculating a desired dielectric constant of the coating and applyzng a corresponding thickness of the liquid composite..016 According to a further aspect of the invention, an applicator for applying the liquid composite is provided. The applicator comprises a mix chamber, a first supply for a first part of a two part resin composition, the first supply communicating with the static mix tube, a second supply for a second part of the two part resin composition, the secornl supply communicating with the static mix tube, pumps for driving fluid from the supplies into the mix chamber, and a delivery sub-system for receiving fluid from the mix chamber.017 Awarding to a further aspect of the invention, an applicator for applying the liquid composite is provided. The applicator comprises a static mix tube, a first supply chamber far a first part of a two part resin composition, the f rst supply chamber communicating with the static mix tube, a second supply chamber for a second part of the two part resin composition, the second supply chamber communicating with the static niix tube, Pumps for driving fluid fiom the supply chambers into the static mix tube, and a delivery sub-system far receiving fluid from the static ~c tube.BRIEF DF,.SCRll'TION OF THE DRAWItVCrS018 There will now be given a brief description of preferred etnbodirnents of the invention, with reference to the drawings, by way of illustration only ~d not limiting the scope of the invention, in which like numerals refer to like elements, and in which: FIG. 1 illustrates a support structure for carrying high voltage electrical wires.FIG. 2 illustrates another form of support structure.FIG. 3 illustrates another form of support structure and a sprayer for distributing dielectric material on the selected portions of the support and wires.FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an applicator.FIG. 5 is a side elevation view in section view of the applicator illustrated in FIG. 4 FIG. 6 is an exploded side elevation view in section of the applicator illustrated in FIG. 4.FIG. 7 shows the two part resin composition being applied to the high voltage electrical wires.DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODllVIENTS019 In the claims, the word "comprising" is used in its inclusive sense and does not exclude other elements being present. The indefinite article "a" before a claim feature does not exclude more than one of the feature being present. The invention provides a unique method and apparatus for resisting electrical shorts between support structures and high voltage poweriines arid other electrical wires or conductors.020 Referring to FIG.' 1, pole 10 carries crossarms 12 (collectively identified as support 14) above the ground surface, although other support str~zctures may be used, such as those constructed of steel. Insulators 16 are attached to support 14 for carrying electrified conductors such as wires 18.Dielectric material 20 is attached to selected areas of support 1-0~ at locations close to wires 18 or other electrical system components that may be present. The areal coverage and location of dielectric material on support 20 depends on the anticipated sloe and reach of birds and other animals potentially in contact with wires 18 and support 14.021 Dielectric material 20 is defined as any material suitable for providing insulating capability between electrified wires 18 and an electrical ground. Specifically, such insulating strength should be sufficiently great to resist short circuits when a bird or other animal contacts wires 18 and an electrical ground such as support 14. The insulating strength of dielectric material 20 can be selected based on several factors including the voltage potential between wires 18 and support 14, the type . .... . . .s.. .,...,.., .~,~_..s2_:a.~ :.;~-.",..->,rvw"r,~,-~~.~~;..,x~sa ;s. ':~:z,:°.. ~atr~a~c.:.. wuw~aas",.=rt~m.~~.....,....: .,.,".,_..__.... =pp..-.~,»~..,<,~-."".,.~~-,""..." and nature of birds and animals potentially in contact therebetween, and parameters regarding the electrical conductive contact between birds and animals within potential electric short circuits. For example, parameters useful to such evaluation include the type of contact between feathered wings and wires 18 versus the gripping strength of raptor talons in contact with support 14. Such contact in dry versus humid or wet conditions also affects the amount of insulating capability desired. Such insulating capability also depends upon the selected objectives.022 Dielectric material 20 is preferably in an initial liquid state before application to support 14.This embodiment facilitates application through spraying, brushing, dipping, dabbing, or other application techniques. Dielectric material 20 can comprise a single part material or multiple part material mixed before application, and can be formulated from a combination of liquid and semi-solid or solid components. An electrical power transmission system may refer to any apparatus intended to transmit power. YVhile the disclosure is generally directed toward high voltage transmission systems such as those transmitting AC current between 10 KV and 60 KV, it will be understood that the teachings equally apply and may be adapted any suitable voltage range or any suitable transmission system. Components of the electrical power transmission system may refer to any part of the system, including support structures, transmission media, isolators, connectors, transformers, or other items known in the art. A preferred embodunent involves onsite mixing of a two part resin composition at the point of use by ~ applicator as will be described below.023 The dielectric material 20 selected should be resistant to deterioration induced by ultraviolet light, rain, hail, temperature variations, and other environmental factors. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the dielectric material 20, although not impenetrable, is resistant to penetration by the sharp talons of birds and the teeth of animals such as squirrels and raccoons. In a preferred embodiment, a two part resin composition is used; formed from polyurethane andlor polyurea, which have strong dielectric qualities in both the liquid and solid farm.024 In some geographic areas, the type of birds or animals typically at risk for contact with electrical wires may shift insulating emphasis away from such animals to the protection of wire 18 and support 14 assets. In other areas wherein endangered or protected birds or animals face a greater electrocution risk, the insulating strength of the dielectric material can be selected to enhance the survivability of the birds upon contact with wires 18 and support I4. Such factors can be assessed by evaluating the bird populations in the target region having behavior likely to roost on wires 18 and support 14, the nature of such roosting habits and the physical contact likely between the birds and such components, and the type of electrical short circuits desired to be protected in view of the configuration of and voltage potential between wires 18 and support 14.025 Tn view of these factors, the dielectric strength of dielectric material 20 can be selected to resist short cizcuits, to eliminate potential short circuits, or to limit the amount of current flowing through such shorts to a selected range. Whereas it may not be practical to eliminate all electrical short circuits between a bird and a wire 18 or support 14, the invention provides the efficient ability to reduce current flow to a non-life threatening level, thereby resisting electrical short circuits. The insulating capability of dielectric material 20 applied will depend on the material used as well as other parameters such as the thickness of dielectric material 20 on support I4.026 In addition to installation of support 14, dielectric material 20 can also be attached to selected portions of wires 18 at locations close to support 14. Because wires I8 comprise one side of the electrical contacts necessary to create a short circuit when bridged by a bird or other animal, protection of such wires 18 further reduces the risk of short circuits. Either wires 18 or support 14 can be coated with dielectric material 20 to provide the electric insulating capability desired, and it would be possible to coat wires 18 exclusively at selected locations without applying any dielectric material 20 to support 14. Such technique would resist short circuits caused when the wings of a bird simultaneously contact adjacent electrified wires. By insulating bath support 14 and wires 18, the thickness of dielectric material 20 covering either support 14 or wires 18 can be reduced while providing the desired dielectric strength within the potential short circuit path. Reducfiions in the requisite thickness of dielectric material 20 can be useful because less material is required and the time to install can be reduced.027 The selected dielectric material 20 may be applied in sufficient locations with sufficient dielectric strength to resist electrical short circuits when a bird or other animal contacts electrified wires 18. FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate other forms of supports 22 and 24 together with possible distribution locations for dielectric material 20.028 The dielectric material 20 is distributed on the structure such as support 14 at a location close to one or more electrified wires 18 until a selected thickness of dielectric material 20 is achieved. The device for distributing dielectric material 20 can comprise a paint brush or other conventional tool appropriate far spreading or otherwise distributing dielectric material 20.029 The dielectric material 20 can be selected to have sprayable or other specific applications properties. Such properties can account for temperature, humidity and other environmental factors anticipated for field application work. The difference in electric potential between electrified wire 18 and the support 14 can be evaluated before dielectric material 20 is sprayed on support 14, and the thickness of dielectric material 20 to provide a desired dielectric insulating capability can be assessed before application. Bielectric material 20 can be sprayed, brushed, or otherwise distributed on electrified wire 18 at selected locations close to support 14, and can be applied to wire 18 before wire 18 is installed on support 14 and is electrified.030 One significant benefit of the invention is the flexibility and portability of the composition and installation equipment in retrofitting existing supports 14 or wires 18. Regions having bird related failures or potential for faihares can be identified and targeted for application of the invention to existing powerline and other facilities. The invention accomplishes the objectives of protecting animals and reducing equipment failure while avoiding the probnbitive costs of replacing existing wires and wire supports. The invention further provides significant flexibility in application to wires and support structures having different shapes and orientations.031 As the potential voltages can be amend 1 S KV, but typically t 0 to 40 KV, the diel~tric coating must be applied to a suitable thickness, for example approximately 1/8 inch, to achieve suitable protection. A suitable dielectric must have good flexibility and elongation to accommodate thermal expansion and typical movement expected from suspended wires. Therefore, in a preferred ..~_.~_._,~~ embodiment of the invention, a sprayable two part resin is used. Specifically, the two part resin may be a mixture of polyurethane and polyurea, or either may be used separately.032 A description of a suitable two part resin composition will now be given. Reacting an isacyanate terminated resin material with a resin material containing reactive hydroxyl sites produces polyurethane. Reacting an isocyanate terminated resin with a resin material containing reactive amine sites produces polyurea. Polyurea generally has a mare rapid cure time, higher temperature resistance, and a higher cost than polyurethane. 'The dielectric material 20 is preferably a polyurethane/polyurea hybrid casting. It is applied in a liquid state and polymerizes in about 30 seconds, depending on conditions, to produce a tough elastic casting on the surface to which it is applied. The product provides excellent insulation in both the liquid and solid state. This allows application directly to electrified structures. The coating contains no solvents and so poses little or no damaging effects to the environment when properly applied. '3"he product also allows the user to apply thicker coatings or multiple layers easier than the products used in the prior art, since the product cures quickly to a stable state, such that other layers may be applied directly.033 The coating provides excellent resistance to movement and thermal expansion. It can be easily repaired if damaged and can be stripper) from the wire where splicing is required.Furthermore, the coating can be modified with fluorescent pigment for added visibility and safety marketing on overhead power lines in work areas. It cau also be formulated with phosphorescent pigments to provide visibility during the night.034 Application is performed using plural component equipment with sufficient metering of each component to maintain the correct ratio. Each component is delivered independently to a mix chamber prior to being deposited on the surface to be coated. C nce applied, the coating achieves 90°)0 of its properties within seconds, and so is not easily affected by rapid weather changes.035 An example of a suitable two part resin is sold under the name "GreenJacket". GreenJacket is a 100% solids high performance polyurethanelpolyurea elastomer. GreenJacket is designed to provide electrical insulation in a wide variety of industrial applications where toughness and abrasion resistance are required, and is resistant to water and a wide variety of chemicals.GreenTacket is a fast set system intended for use with plural component spray equipment with a mix ratio of 1 to 1. The following are some properties of the resin:Density 1.10 g/mLService Temp. -50°C to 250°CShore hardness45D/97AElongation 170 Tensile Strength 2300 psi Dielectric Strength 401~V/12S mils (~4f~er 1000 hours QLIT~Elongation 110 Tensile Strength 1500 psi 036 Referring now to FIGS. 4 through 6, an example of an applicator will be discussed.Referring to FIG. 4, there is shown an applica#or 40, which is potable and therefore can be taken to an electric power sub-station to apply the coating. A first supply chamber 42 and a second supply chamber 44 each supplies a part of the two part resin composition. First and second supply chambers 42 and 44 are designed to hold a certain amount of fluid required to make the resin coating. For example, first supply chamber 42 may supply an isocyanate terminated resin material, and second supply chamber 4.4 may supply a mixture of a resin material containing reactive hydroxyl sites and a resin material Containing reactive amine sites. the ratio of the two components in the second supply chamber 44 will determine the ratio of polyurethane to polyurea in the two part resin composition. A pump 46 is included to drive fluid from supply chambers 42 and 44 to a static mix tube 56. Referring to FIG. S, pump 46 as illustrated includes an electric motor 48 which drives pistons 52. Refernng to FIG. 6, pistons 52 are in fluid communication with supply chambers 42 and 44. As pistons S2 move back and forth as driven by motor 48, liquid is driven from supply chambers 42 and 44, which feed pistons 52 by gravity, through conduits 54, and into static mix tube 56. Referring to FTC. S, the combined fluids are then driven through static mix tube 56 where they are mixed to obtain a reasonably homogeneous mixture, and out a delivery subsystem, in this case, nozzle 58. Static mix tube 56 may simply be a hollow tube that is long enough to allow for the two components, which are under high pressure, to mix. Other types of static mix tubes tray be used, such as those with baffles, which would allow the components to mix bore thoroughly. ~ nce the liquids mix, the two part resin composition will begin to cure. As illustrated, applicator 40 is designed to be handheld, and is activated by squeezing a trigger 6U, such that the user can control the flow of fluid, and can apply a suffciently thick layer of the liquid composite to achieve the desired dielectric constant. The two part resin composition formed of polyurethane and polyurea that may be used is proportionately mixed such that it has strong dielectric properties in both the liquid and solid form, while maintaining favorable properties in its solid form. Applicator 40 as described is intended for use as a portable, cordless applicator that can be taken into the field by a worker, when only a relatively small area need to be covered, for example, 5 to lU square feet. Supply chambers 42 and 44 are removable so that refills may be installed.037 The invention as descn-bed provides a method for protecting energized overhead high-voltage power lines and associated equipment from damage, increasing power system reliability, and protecting against accidental electrocution death of birds and other animals including endangered species, by applying a coating of electrical insulation to selected target areas of the power system that previously did not have electrical insulation. The insulation is applied in liquid form without the need to de-energize the power system, thereby avoiding the need to create a power outage for customers of the electric utility. A further discussion of the steps involved will now be given. The steps include determining the bare target or targets that are to be coated with insulation, each of which may be energized such as a conductor or other energized component, the size of each target, and the voltage of the energized components. A dielectric material is selected with sufficient dielectric strength to safely withstand said voltage in both its liquid state and solid state, and the thickness of dielectric material coating required is detem~ined based on the voltage. An applicator is selected from a variety of types which is appropriate for distributing material onto the taxget or targets, and the device, which is a mobile insulation application system, is assembled. Referring to FIGS 7 through 10, the device is made up of the following components:- a supply system 84 shown in FIG. 8 that remains on the ground at ground potential and which can be mobile-mounted on a cart as shown, or in a truck or on a trailer. Referring to FIG. 9, the supply system 84 comprises tanks 86 for holding the supply of liquid dielectric material components and pumps 88 powered by a suitable power system to pressurize the material, where the arrows show the flow of two the two separate components;- referring to FIG. 7, hoses 94 which is a flexible or rigid line that is a means of waving the liquid dielectric material from the supply system to the wand 82;- referring to FIG. 7, a long wand 82 having sufficient length and dielectric strength to enable the applicator end. to be energized at said voltage and the base end connected to the Supply to remain at ground potential and to be gripped at the base end by a lineman 70 who operates the wand and who can remain outside the approved safe working distance from energized pawerline 74 or other components. The wand 82 has two separate passageways to keep the two components separated until they reach applicator 76. There is also a manually-operated valve 92 in the wand allowing lineman 70 to stop and start the flow of dielectric material;- an applicator 76 that is engaged with the head end of the wand 82 and that is used to distribute the liquid dielectric material 72 onto the gaweriine 74. While many types of applicators exist, such as applicators for extruding, dipping, dabbing, brushing, spaying and other types, an atomizing nozzle 94 is preferable when working with the two component material discussed above. Referring to FIG. I0, atomizing nozzle 94 has entry ports 96 far each component. Entry ports 96 are an the order of 2011000 of an inch, such that each components under high pressure will atomize when exiting the port 96. The barrel 98 of nozzle 94, which acts as the ~xiix chamber 80, can be rifled or etched to obtain a better mixture and to help tlxe mixture exit the nozzle 94. It will be understood that a uniform coating around the entire wire is not required, merely those area that pose a risk of being shorted.- a leakage current monitor may be included to for safety purposes to detect the amount of current travelling through the apparatus when applying the liquid dielectric material to energize components.The supply system 84 is then grounded. The device tanlrs 86 are filled and the entire device is charged including the supply system, hose, wand and applicator with the components of the dielectric material. It is prudent to measure leakage current through the wand with the applicator ,s. ..p..-:...;.,", ..._~c..",. ..a~.,~:.,s":',~,.s.~.s., c..:.Fix,..z~;xm,:-z~.,~~.arcs,.as-~-m:~unw..cves:srr,~ .e,.~err,~~:~:~ .~..~.srar,,~a:~,~.o:..»:....~..~.""ms...a,.".,.....a....,....,......_ .~"",""."...,~.x~".,..o~"."_._....~_. end energized and the base end grounded and ensuring said current is within approved limits for safe work practices. A lineman 70 is positioned near the work area which can be on the utility structure, in a truck boom bucket, other aerial device or work platform. The lineman 70 must maintain a safe distance from the energized components that complies with typical utility hotstick live line work practices, and where the lineman 70 may be at ground potential The lineman 70 uses a hotstick live Iine work practices to manipulate the wand, manipulates the valve to start the flow of liquid dielectric material through the wand and out the applicator; and distributes the liquid dielectric material onto the target or targets to the determined thickness. Qnce the desired thickness is achieved, the valve is switched to stop the flow of liquid dielectric material. After waiting a period of time for the liquid dielectric material to cure into a solid state, a coating of solid electrical insulation on the target is achieved.038 For safety purposes, the lineman should be positioned such that he is insulated from ground and is at high impedance from both ground and the energized components, such as in an insulated aerial device such as a bucket on an insulated truck boom, or similar insulated work platform. The hose should also have sufficient dielectric strength to enable the lineman to remain insulated from ground while he is in contact with the elevated end of the hose where it is engaged with the base end of the wand, while the lower end of the hose remains at ground potential since it is engaged with the grounded supply system. The hose is cleaned of contaminants prior to its use to ensure the hose performs at its dielectric rating. Alternatively, the lineman may use rubber glove live line work practices instead of hotstick live line work practices, thus enabling the lineman to work within arm's length distance of energized components. In addition, the liquid dielectric material may be distributed using a short wand that itself does not have dielectric strength and therefore may be energized in its entirety when its applicator comes into contact with energized components, and where the wand retains all of the other attributes and functions of the long dielectric wand described above. The target need not be energized, but may be components of the structure bearing the energized components, where the target is close to the energized components and at ground potential or el~trically insulated from ground by some impedance, however the safety precautions should still be taken.._____. 039 Referring now to FIG. 7, a lineman 70 is shown applying liquid dielectric material 72 to an energized powerline 74 using a two component applicator 76. Lines 78 represent the limits of approach (LOA} designated for high voltage powerlines. Liquid dielectric material 72, in this case, a two part resin composition, is mixed within the LOA 78, while lineman 70 is outside, holding an application rod that has applicator 76 at one end and the component supplies knot shown) at the other.. As two part resin composition 72 cures quickly, xni~aing at the end of the applicator is require. to avoid curing within the applicator if the cure time is too short, and to prevent composition 72 from sagging on the pawerline 74 if the cure time is too long. Therefore, there is a mix chamber 80 where the two parts azve atomized and combined. To improve atomization, it may be desirable to inject pressuriz~i gas such as compressed air or nitrogen into each part of the resin prior to mixing. Compressed air may also be used to blow out the equipment after use as a maintenance t~ltt~ique. The use of compxessed air or nitrogen may require additional equipment drying techniques. The arrangement shown in FIG. 7 can be easily modifies. to apply composition 72 to other structures, such as sub-stations, support structures, insulators, or other electrical components. During application, there nnay be certain areas that should not be coated. If this is the case, temporary masks or blinds may be installed to protect those areas.040 The liquid dielectric material may be comprised of multiple liquid constituents which ar!e mixed in the applicator prior to application to the target. This requires a corresponding number of tanks and pumps in the supply system and hoses and pipes withal the wand to carry the cvms~ituents to ~e applicator. Each liquid constituent has sufficient dielectric strength to enable application to energized targets while the supply system remains grounded. A preferred embodiment involves two liquid constituents, and the ratio of one constituent to the other is maintained by the supply systera at 2 to 1 or 1 to 1.041 Immaterial modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing firm the invention as described herein.
    权利要求:
    Claims (32)
    [1] 1. A method of protecting electrical power transmissions systems from damage, the method comprising the steps of:mixing a two part resin composition at the point of use to form a liquid composite;applying the liquid composite to a component of an electrical power transmission system;and curing the liquid composite to form a coating for the component.
    [2] 2. The method of claim 1 carried out at an electric power sub-station using portable equipment.
    [3] 3. The method of claim 1 in which the first part of the two part resin composition comprises at least one of a hydroxyl terminated resin and an amine terminated resin and the second part of the two part resin composition is an isocyanate terminated resin.
    [4] 4. The method of claim 1 in which the two part resin composition cures in less than 30 seconds to prevent sagging.
    [5] 5. The method of claim 1 in which the electrical power transmission system conducts voltages between 10 KV and 60 KV.
    [6] 6. The method of claim 1 in which the liquid composite is applied to an electrified component of an electrical power transmission system.
    [7] 7. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of calculating a desired dielectric constant of the coating and applying a corresponding thickness of the liquid composite.
    [8] 8. The method of claim 1 in which applying the liquid composite comprises using an applicator comprising:a mix chamber; a first supply for a first part of a two part resin composition., the first supply communicating with the mix chamber;a second supply for a second part of the two part resin composition, the second supply communicating with the mix chamber;pumps for driving fluid from the supplies into the mix chamber; and a delivery sub-system for receiving fluid from the mix chamber.
    [9] 9. The method of claim 6 in which applying the liquid composite to an electrified component of an electrical power transmission system comprises using an applicator comprising:an application rod having an application end and a supply end, the application rod adapted to allow the application end within the :limits of approach of the electrified component while a user remains outside the limits of approach of the electrified component.a mix chamber connected to the application end of the application rod;a first supply for a first part of a two part resin composition, the first supply communicating with the mix chamber;a second supply for a second part of the two part resin composition, the second supply communicating with the mix chamber, the first and second supplies connected to the supply end of the application rod;pumps for driving fluid from the supplies into the mix chamber; and a delivery sub-system for receiving fluid from the mix chamber at the application end of the application rod.
    [10] 10. The method of claim 6 in which using an applicator further comprises the step of maintaining the supply end of the applicator at ground potential.
    [11] 11. An applicator for protecting electrical power transmissions systems from damage, the applicator comprising:a mix chamber;a first supply for a first part of a two part resin composition, the first supply communicating with the mix chamber; a second supply for a second part of the two part resin composition, the second supply communicating with the mix chamber;pumps for driving fluid from the supplies into the mix chamber; and a delivery sub-system for receiving fluid from the mix chamber.
    [12] 12. The applicator of claim 11 in which the first part of the two part resin composition comprises at least one of a hydroxyl terminated resin and an amine terminated resin and the second part of the two part resin composition is an isocyanate terminated resin.
    [13] 13. The applicator of claim 11 in which the delivery sub-system is adapted to apply the fluid from the static mix tube to an electrical power transmission system.
    [14] 14. The applicator of claim 12 adapted to apply the fluid to an electrified component of an electrical power transmission system.
    [15] 15. The applicator of claim 11 in which the mix chamber comprises an atomization nozzle.
    [16] 16. The applicator of claim 11 further comprising an application rod having an application end and a supply end, the mix chamber connected to the application end of the application rod and the first and second supply connected to the supply end of the application rod, the application rod adapted to allow the application end within the limits of approach of the electrified component while a user remains outside the limits of approach of the electrified component.
    [17] 17. The applicator of claim 11 in which the applicator is portable.
    [18] 18. The applicator of claim 16 wherein the supply end of the application rod is at ground potential.
    [19] 19. A method of protecting electrical power transmissions systems from damage, the method comprising the steps of: identifying an area of the electrical power transmissions system to be protected;selecting a dielectric material having a liquid form and a solid form, where the dielectric material has dielectric properties suitable for protecting the identified areas in the solid form, and where the dielectric material has dielectric properties suitable to allow for safe application in the liquid form;applying the dielectric material in the liquid form to the identified areas; and allowing the dielectric material to convert from the liquid form to the solid form.
    [20] 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the dielectric material is applied to the identified area when the electrical power transmissions system is energized.
    [21] 21. The method of claim 19, wherein applying the dielectric material in liquid form further comprises the use of an applicator, the applicator comprising a dielectric material supply connected to a delivery sub-system.
    [22] 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the supply end of the applicator is maintained at ground potential.
    [23] 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the applicator is portable.
    [24] 24. The method of claim 19, wherein the dielectric material comprises a two part resin composition, where the first part of the two part resin composition comprises at least one of a hydroxyl terminated resin and an amine terminated resin and the second part of the two part resin.composition is an isocyanate terminated resin
    [25] 25. The method of claim 19 in which the electrical power transmission system conducts voltages between 10 KV and 60 KV.
    [26] 26. The method of claim 19, wherein the use of an applicator comprises using an applicator comprising: a mix chamber;a first supply for a first part of a two part resin composition, the first supply communicating with the mix chamber;a second supply for a second part of the two part resin composition, the second supply communicating with the mix chamber;pumps for driving fluid from the supplies into the mix chamber; and a delivery sub-system for receiving fluid from the mix chamber.
    [27] 27. The method of claim 20 wherein applying the dielectric material further comprises the step of monitoring leakage current levels.
    [28] 28. A portable applicator for protecting electrical power transmissions systems from damage, the applicator comprising:a static mix tube;a first supply chamber for a first part of a two part resin composition, the first supply chamber communicating with the static mix tube;a second supply chamber for a second part of the two part resin composition; the second supply chamber communicating with the static mix tube;pumps for driving fluid from the supply chambers into the static mix tube; and a delivery sub-system for receiving fluid from the static mix tube.
    [29] 29. The applicator of claim 28 in which the first part of the two part resin composition comprises at least one of a hydroxyl terminated resin and an amine terminated resin and the second part of the two part resin composition is an isocyanate terminated resin.
    [30] 30. The applicator of claim 28 ire which the delivery sub-system is adapted to apply the fluid from the static mix tube to an electrical power transmission system.
    [31] 31. The applicator of claim 28 in which the first and second supply chambers are replaceable.
    [32] 32. The applicator of claim 28 in which the pumps are piston pumps.
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    同族专利:
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    CA2479416C|2013-07-09|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    CN110506729A|2019-09-25|2019-11-29|国网河北省电力有限公司晋州市供电分公司|Bird-repeller system and method|
    法律状态:
    2009-08-06| EEER| Examination request|
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US10895363||2004-07-21||
    US10/895,363|US7244470B2|2001-07-10|2004-07-21|Protection of electrical power systems|
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