PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR

TRANSMISSION LINE

CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT

POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
Sep ’2021
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SL No Description Page No

1 Introduction 1

2 Overall Procedure 1

3 Safety procedure 1

4 Statutory Requirement 2

5 Inspection 2

6 Testing and measurement 14

7 Protective system 16

8 Dispatching Procedure 17

9 Switching Procedures 17

10 Handing Over 17

11 Energization 18

12 De-Energization 18

13 Observation and duration 18

14 Acceptance criteria 18

15 Documentation 18
 ABBREVIATIONS

AC Alternating Current
AM Asset Management
CEA Central electricity authority
CLR insulator Composite Long Rod Insulator
CBIP Central Board of Irrigation and Power
CERC Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
CTUIL Central Transmission Utility of India Limited
DC Direct Current
D/C Double Circuit
FS type Fully submerged type foundation
Foundation
GS Ground Switch
IS Indian standard
ICAO International Civil aviation organization
MOEF Ministry of Environment and Forest
M/C Multi circuit
NTAMC National Transmission Asset Management System
OPGW Optical Fiber Ground wire
PTCC Power and tele-communication coordination committee
ROW Right of way
RTAMC Regional Transmission Asset Management System
S/C Single circuit
 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

1.0 INTRODUCTION
This document includes overall procedure, safety rules, Statutory Requirements,
dispatching procedure, switching sequences, inspection, testing & measurement,
observations, acceptance criteria and documentation of test results for pre-
commissioning procedures for transmission lines.
Different type of electrical clearances are tabulated as per CEA document (Measures
relating to Safety and Electric Supply Regulations, 2010), CBIP manual for
Transmission line in 2014, Forest conservation Act, 1980 & forest conservation
Rules, 2003 & POWERGRID latest technical specifications for transmission lines.
Different values indicated in this document is for reference purpose only; however,
if there is any difference between the values indicated in this document & the
values in the technical specifications/drawings; the values of technical
specifications/drawings will prevail.

The detailed inspection and handing over documents are required to be checked for
the entire length of transmission line before energization. Geo-tagged digital
Photographs of all tower locations using high-resolution digital camera need to be
handed over to taking over team and preserved as part of taking over record.
2.0 OVERALL PROCEDURE
First, it is to be ascertained that the transmission line to be energized is ready for
operation and has been properly handed over (released) in writing. This will include
all safety aspects, Electrical inspector clearance, PTCC clearance, statutory
clearance, regulation/ system operator requirement and final inspection, if any.
Instructions for the work and supervision are given by the test leader (Line in
charge). However, regular operators will execute all switching and operational
activities.
Line charging instructions received from Engineering department & CTUIL should be
clearly understood by the Line in charge and doubts, if any, are to be got clarified
prior to the energization of the line.
Once, the line is handed over for charging, no work shall be permitted without a
valid work permit.
Engineering department & CTUIL recommendations, system operator/ regulation
requirements are to be followed before putting the system into continuous
operation.
3.0 SAFETY PROCEDURES
Energization implies an abrupt and serious change of the working conditions in the
line.
In order to avoid serious accidents, thorough information must be imparted to all
personnel involved in the construction of transmission line. In-charge of the
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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

Transmission line must ensure that due publicity has been made to the public in all
the villages/ areas along the line route cautioning them against climbing the towers
etc. and that the line is proposed to be charged on notified date. It is also to be
confirmed that all the agencies involved in construction activities shall not carry out
any job on the said line without a valid work permit.
It shall be ensured that before charging all men, material, Tools & plants and any
temporary earthing on any part of the entire length of line are removed.
It must be ensured that any power supply/ low voltage charging used as “anti-theft
measure” must be disconnected and isolated to avoid accidental connection.
All equipment tests and pre-commissioning tests must have been completed,
reconnected (in case cables were isolated for testing purpose) and documented as
per prescribed format.
The system must be formally declared ready for Energization and handed over for
operation in writing.
4.0 STATUTORY REQUIREMENT
4.1 The concerned authorities shall be informed before commissioning the line and
their approval shall be obtained in accordance with latest Central Electricity
Authority (Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations.
4.2 Before charging of the line, PTCC approval from concerned authority shall be
obtained.
5.0 INSPECTION
Before the line is scheduled to be handed over for the pre-commissioning/
Energization, the same shall be inspected by representatives of POWERGRID and
Construction Agency. Such inspection shall include:
i) Right of way/ way leave/ electrical clearance
ii) Jumper drops
iii) Foundation and Revetments/ Protection Work
iv) Tower and Tower accessories
v) Earthing
vi) Hardware fittings
vii) Insulators
viii) Conductors and Earth wire/OPGW
ix) Accessories for conductor and Earth wires/OPGW
x) Aviation Warning Signals (Lights/globules/painting)
xi) Bird Diverter (if applicable)

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

5.1 RIGHT OF WAY / WAY LEAVE / ELECTRICAL CLEARANCE

5.1.1 Right of way/ Way leave clearance
Maximum width of Right of way of transmission line in forest area and minimum
electrical clearances between Conductor & trees shall be as per
guidelines/clarifications issued by MOEF & climate changes in 2019 under Forest
conservation Act,1980 & forest conservation rules,2003 for laying of transmission
lines through forest area.
(i) As per existing guidelines/clarifications issued by MOEF & climate changes in
2019 / POWERGRID specification, the maximum width of right of way for the
transmission lines on forestland shall be as follows:

Transmission Voltage (KV) Width of Right of Way (in meter)

66 18
132 27
220 35
+ /-320 HVDC 44
400 S/C 52
400 D/C 46
765 S/C (Delta) 64
765 S/C (Horizontal) 85
765 D/C 67
+/-500 HVDC 52
+/-800 HVDC 69
1200 S/C 89

(ii) Minimum electrical clearance between Conductor & Trees considering

Maximum sag & swing of Conductor shall be as follows.
Voltage (KV) Minimum clearance between
conductors and trees (in meter)
66 3.4
132 4.0
220 4.6
400 5.5
765 9.0
+/-500 HVDC 7.4
+/-800 HVDC 10.7
1200 13

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

5.1.2 Electrical Clearance

All statutory electrical clearance of transmission lines w.r.t. ground, building,
Structures, Power line crossings, River crossing, Railway & Road crossings etc. as
stipulated under latest version of Central Electricity Authority (Measures relating to
Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations & POWERGRID specification shall be
ensured.
5.1.2.1 Minimum Ground clearance shall be as per clause 58.0 of Central Electricity
Authority (Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2010 &
POWERGRID specification under Sec-I & Sec-III of Vol-II.
The ground profile at the time of commissioning shall be checked with the profile
approved at the time of check survey.
Sag in one of the span in each section shall be measured and it should be ensured
that sag & tension of the section is in line with specification and sag & tension
calculation chart approved by Engg.
Ground clearance of lowest conductors at critical points shall be checked in the field
from any of the prevalent method and the values of ground clearance at these
critical points including all power line, railway line and road crossings shall be
recorded in the prescribed format.
In case of hilly Terrain and for building clearance, the side clearance from
conductors and jumpers at critical points shall also be checked and recorded for all
phases of conductor/ earth wire/ OPGW towards hill building side.

Transmission 66 132 220 ± 320 400 765 ± 500 ± 800 1200

voltage (in HVDC HVDC HVDC
kV)
Minimum 5.5 6.1 7.015 8.5 8.84 18 12.5 18 24
Ground
Clearance (in
meter)

5.1.2.2 Clearance of earth wire/OPGW with Top conductor at mid span to Top conductor
Availability of required vertical clearances (as per design & POWERGRID
Specification) between conductor and earth wire/OPGW shall be ensured through
random checking. Minimum clearances between conductor and earth wire/OPGW
at mid-span shall be as indicated below:
Voltage 66 132 220 +/- 320 40 +/- 500 765 +/- 800 1200
(kV) HVDC 0 HVDC HVDC
Minimum 3 6.1 8.5 8.5 9 9 9 12(pole) 18
mid span 6.1(DMR)
clearance
(in meter)

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

Record of such random checks shall be the part of pre-commissioning records.

5.1.2.3 Clearance between line crossings each other, the minimum clearances between the
Power line crossing each other shall be as per clause no 69.0, part-III, Sec-4 of CEA’s
Regulations 2010 (Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) and POWERGRID
specifications under sec-III, Vol-II
Where an overhead line crosses another overhead line, clearances shall be as under: -
(Minimum clearances in meters between AC lines crossing each other)

SI. Nominal 11-66 110-132 220 400 765 1200

No. System
Voltage (kV)
1. Low and 2.44 3.05 4.58 5.49 7.94 10.44
Medium
2. 11-66 2.44 3.05 4.58 5.49 7.94 10.44
3. 110-132 3.05 3.05 4.58 5.49 7.94 10.44
4. 220 4.58 4.58 4.58 5.49 7.94 10.44
5. 400 5.49 5.49 5.49 5.49 7.94 10.44
6. 765 7.94 7.94 7.94 7.94 7.94 10.44
7. 1200 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44

Where an overhead direct current (DC) line crosses another overhead line, clearances shall
be as under: -
Minimum clearances in meters between AC and DC lines crossing each other
SI. System Voltage 100 200 300 kV 400 kV 500 kV 600 800
No (AC/DC) kV DC kV DC DC DC DC kV kV
. DC DC
1 Low and Medium 3.05 4.71 5.32 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
AC
2 11-66 kV AC 3.05 4.71 5.32 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
3 110-132 kV AC 3.05 4.71 5.32 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
4 220 kV AC 4.58 4.71 5.32 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
5 200 kV DC 4.71 4.71 5.32 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
6 300 kV AC 5.32 5.32 5.32 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
7 400 kV AC 5.49 5.49 5.49 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
8 400 kV DC 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.79 7.54 9.04
9 500 kV DC 6.79 6.79 6.79 6.79 6.79 7.54 9.04
10 600 kV DC 7.54 7.54 7.54 7.54 7.54 7.54 9.04
11 765 kV AC 7.94 7.94 7.94 7.94 7.94 7.94 9.04
12 800 kV DC 9.04 9.04 9.04 9.04 9.04 9.04 9.04
13 1200 kV AC 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44 10.44

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

Provided that no guarding are required when line of voltage exceeding 33 kV crosses
over another line of 250 V and above voltage or a road or a tram subject to the
condition that adequate clearances are provided between the lowest conductor of the
line of voltage exceeding 33 kV and the top most conductor of the overhead line
crossing underneath the line of voltage exceeding 33 kV and the clearances as stipulated
in regulation 58 from the topmost surface of the road maintained

5.1.2.4 Electrical clearance from railway tracks shall be as stipulated under Sec-III, Vol-II of
Technical Specification of POWERGRID.
(i) Vertical clearance for OHE (other than high rise OHE):

Sl. No. Transmission line voltage level Minimum clearances from Rail Level
New Power Line crossing or crossing
planned for alteration
1 Above 66 kV & up to 132 kV 15.56 m
2 Above 132 kV & up to 220 kV 16.46 m
3 Above 220 kV & up to 400 kV 18.26 m
4 Above 400 kV & up to 500 kV 19.16 m
5 Above 500 kV & up to 800 kV 21.86 m
(ii) Vertical clearance for high-rise OHE*:

Sl. Transmission line voltage level Minimum clearances from Rail Level
No. New Power Line crossing or crossing
planned for alteration
1 Above 66 kV & up to 132 kV 17.56 m
2 Above 132 kV & up to 220 kV 18.46 m
3 Above 220 kV & up to 400 kV 20.26 m
4 Above 400 kV & up to 500 kV 21.16 m
5 Above 500 kV & up to 800 kV 23.86 m

(iii) Clearance between highest traction conductor & lowest crossing conductor

Sl. Transmission line voltage level Minimum clearances from Rail Level
No. New Power Line crossing or crossing
planned for alteration
1 Above 66 kV & up to 132 kV 3.05
2 Above 132 kV & up to 220 kV 4.58
3 Above 220 kV & up to 400 kV 5.49
4 Above 400 kV & up to 500 kV 7.94
5 Above 500 kV & up to 800 kV 7.94

*Applicable only for electrification of routes where double stack container having
maximum height of 6809 mm is plying
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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

5.1.2.5 Clearances from buildings of Lines

Electrical clearances (Horizontal as well as vertical clearances) from
building/structures shall be as per clause 61.0 of Central Electricity Authority
(Measures relating to Safety and Electric Supply) Regulations, 2010.

(1) An overhead line shall not cross over an existing building as far as possible and no
building shall be constructed under an existing overhead line.

(2) Where an overhead line of voltage, exceeding 650 V passes above or adjacent to
any building or part of a building, it shall have on the basis of maximum sag a
vertical clearance above the highest part of the building immediately under such
line, of not less than clearance mentioned as per below table for respective voltage
level

Voltage (kV) 66 132 220 400 765 1200

Minimum 4000 4600 5500 7300 10600 14500
clearance (mm)

(3) The horizontal clearance between the nearest conductor and any part of such
building shall, on the basis of maximum deflection due to wind pressure, be not
less than clearance mentioned as per below table for respective voltage level

Voltage (kV) 66 132 220 400 765 1200

Minimum 2300 2900 3800 5600 8900 12800
clearance (mm)

Note: Clearance are calculated as per norms specified in clause no 61 of CEA safety
regulation 2010

(4) For High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems, vertical clearance and horizontal
clearance, on the basis of maximum deflection due to wind pressure, from
buildings shall be maintained as below:

Sl. No DC Voltage Vertical Clearance Horizontal Clearance

(kV)
(in mm) (in mm)
1. 100 kV 4600 2900
2. 200 kV 5800 4100
3. 300 kV 7000 5300
4. 400 kV 7900 6200
5. 500 kV 9100 7400
6. 600 kV 10300 8600
7. 800 kV 12400 10700
Vertical and horizontal clearances shall be as specified in schedule-X of CEA safety
regulation 2010

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

Explanation: - For the purpose of this regulation the expression “building” shall be
deemed to include any structure, whether permanent or temporary.

5.1.2.6 Minimum Clearance in air above ground and across road surface of Highways or roads
for lowest conductor of an AC overhead lines, including service lines of nominal
system voltage

As per sub regulation (1) of regulation (58) of CEA draft safety regulation 2021

Clearance above ground Clearance between

conductor & road
Nominal system Across Along
Elsewhere) surface across high
Voltage(in kV) street street
(in meter) way(in meter)
(in meter) (in meter)
66 6.5 6.1 5.5 11.6 or U/G cable
132 6.5 6.1 6.1 11.6
220 7.02 7.02 7.02 12.52
400 8.84 8.84 8.84 14.0
765 18* 18* 18* 18.8
1200 24* 24* 24* 30

*Higher clearance predominantly induction effects and time varying electric field (ICNIRP
limit:10 kV/m for occupational exposure) at voltage exceeding 400 kV
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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

5.1.2.7 Minimum Clearance in air above ground and across road surface of Highways or roads
for lowest conductor of an DC overhead lines,

As per sub regulation (1) of regulation (58) of CEA draft safety regulation 2021

Clearance between
Nominal system Clearance above conductor & road surface
Voltage (in kV) ground across high way (in meter)

+/- 500 kV HVDC 12.5 17.25

+/- 800 kV HVDC 18 22.75

Highway clearance required 4.75 meter higher than ground clearances (considering the
vehicle height 4.75 meter as mentioned in the Indian road congress documents, 1983)
5.1.2.8 Power line/cable crossing with waterway:
Minimum Clearance of Power Conductor over the Highest Flood Level in case of
navigable/non navigable rivers (As per clause no 4.5.1 of CBIP manual on
Transmission line, 2014)

a) AC system
AC Voltage Level in kV Minimum Clearance above H.F.L (mm)
(Nominal voltage)
Navigable River Non-navigable river
66 19000 3650
110 19000 4300
132 19220 4300
220 20100 5100
400 21900 6400
765 25550 9400
1200 29900 11000

b) DC system

DC Voltage in kV Minimum Clearance above H.F.L (mm)

Navigable River Non-navigable river
+/- 500 24030 6750
+/- 800 27700 11000

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

FOUNDATION AND REVETMENTS/ PROTECTION WORK

5.2.1 FOUNDATION:
There shall not be any damage/ uneven settlement of foundations. For this,
tolerances in levels of all four stubs should not exceed the criteria provided in the
Annexure - C of IS -5613 (Part -3/Section 2) latest revision.
It is to be ensured that back filling of foundation is properly done. Soil shall be filled
over all legs up to ground level.
Extra surface earth after foundation back filling shall be removed from legs of the
tower.
Any crack or break in chimney, if found, shall be repaired/rectified with approval of
site In-charge.
5.2.2 REVETMENTS I PROTECTION:
Cracks/ damages to revetments shall be repaired/ rectified with approval of site In-
charge.
Wherever revetments are provided, weep holes shall have slope such as to flush out
the deposited water away from tower platform.
In case of hilly terrain, the benching area should be leveled properly. The area
around tower shall have proper slope for drainage of rainwater.
5.3 TOWER AND TOWER ACCESSORIES
5.3.1 Normal Tower
After completion of a transmission line, all the towers shall be thoroughly checked
before charging the line. Special attention shall be given to the following points:
Deformed/ Buckled/ Missing/ Rusted Members and Nuts and Bolts
It is to be ensured that no members are bent, deformed or rusted in towers and if
so, the same shall be replaced.
If any member is found missing, a new member shall be fixed as per structural
drawing of the Tower.
Nuts shall be sufficiently tightened for the required Torque. Minimum 2/ 3 complete
threads shall be projected outside the nut. All bolts shall have their nuts facing
outside of the tower for Horizontal connection and downwards for Vertical
connections.
Bolts shall be punched as per the specification and nuts shall be properly tack
welded. It shall be ensured that the circular length of each welding shall be at least
10 mm. Proper zinc rich paint (90% zinc content) shall be applied on welded portion.
It shall be ensured that all tower members are fixed and tightened properly. All
extra blank holes on tower members are filled with correct size of nuts & bolts.
Geotagged Digital Photographs (from different angles) of such conformance of all
towers are to be handed over to taking over team and preserved with taking over

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 POWER GRID CORPORATION OF INDIA LTD.
CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

records.
5.3.2 Special Towers
In addition to the above checks for towers, ladders and platforms provided in
special towers shall be properly tightened and no foreign material shall be left out
on such platforms.
5.3.3 Earthing of Towers
Ensure that proper earthing (Pipe type earthing in one of tower leg/ Counterpoise
Earthing) of tower has been done and earthing strip is neither damaged nor broken
and is properly fixed to the stub.
Ensure that Additional earthing is provided on every 7 to 8 kms distance at tension
tower for direct earthing of both shield wires (Earth wire/ OPGW).
Ensure that Additional Rod type earthing is provided in one of foundation pit
(Diagonally opposite to pipe type earthing) of all the transmission line towers in
normal soil (i.e., Dry, Wet cultivated, Wet, PS, FS & Black cotton soil) in addition to
pipe type earthing.
In case of counter poise earthing, it is to be ensured that earth wire is sufficiently
buried in the ground to avoid digging out during cultivation. The length of
counterpoise shall be as per technical specification. The same shall be laid uniformly
and stacking/ coiling of counter poise wire is not allowed.
Before charging of the line, ensure that tower footing Impedance at each tower is
below 10 ohms. If tower footing impedance of any tower (before stringing) has
been recorded higher than 10 ohms, additional counterpoise type earthing/
Chemical earthing shall be provided to bring the tower footing impedance value
below 10 ohms.
Earthing of special towers shall be verified as per approved drawings applicable for
special towers/ special foundation.
5.3.4 Tower accessories
All danger plates, number plates, circuit plates and phase plates shall be in position
as per the specification and properly tightened.
All phase plates shall be fixed in correct phase sequence. Special care may be taken
at transposition towers for indicating the correct phase sequence.
It shall be ensured that the anti-climbing device (ACD) is provided at the suitable
height of tower. In case of barbed wire type ACD, barbed wire shall be tightly fixed.
It shall be ensured that the step bolts (for normal towers) are provided up to the
peak of the tower. Any missing step bolts shall be replaced.
Fixing of bird-guards shall be ensured at all towers to prevent birds perching on
suspension insulator strings.

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DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
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5.4 HARDWARE FITTINGS

Tightening of all bolts and nuts are to be checked up to specified torque. Check
fixing of all security clips (W/R type clips).
Surface condition of corona control rings should be smooth. Distance/ alignment
between tower side arcing horn (wherever applicable) and line side arcing horn/
corona control ring should be as per approved drawings.
Jumpers in the tension tower shall be properly bolted with the tension clamp and
form a parabolic shape in order to achieve adequate clearance from steel super
structure.
Provision of Suitable counter weight shall be ensured on Pilot string insulator (CLR
type) as per approved drawings to restrain swing towards the tower.
Provision of Counter weight shall also be ensured on pilot insulator string (for both
disc type/CLR pilot string) in case of transposition tower.
5.5 INSULATORS
All damaged/ broken porcelain/ glass insulator discs/ composite long rod/ porcelain
long rod insulator units shall be replaced.
Unusual deflection in suspension strings, if observed, shall be rectified.
It is to be ensured before charging those insulators are clean. IR value of individual
porcelain disc insulators shall be checked on random basis by 5/ 10 kV Insulation
Tester and it shall not be less than 2000 Mega Ohm per disc.
5.6 CONDUCTORS & EARTH WIRES/OPGW
5.6.1 Conductor
Surface of the conductors shall be free from scratches/rubs.
Ensure that conductor strands are not cut and opened up. Wherever strands are
found cut/ damaged/ scratched, they must be repaired with repair sleeves/ repair
protective rods in case the no. of damaged strands are within specified limits
(normally up to 1/6th nos of strands in the outer layer) for lines up to 220 kV and
maximum 2 strands in case of 400 kV and higher voltage level.
5.6.2 Earth wire/OPGW
Ensure that strands of earth wire/OPGW have no cuts.
5.7 ACCESSORIES FOR CONDUCTOR AND EARTHWIRES/OPGW
5.7.1 Joints
All joints on conductor/ earth wires shall be away from the tower at a distance of at
least 30 meters or as provided in the technical specification (TS).
Ensure that not more than one joint in a sub-conductor is provided in one span.
Ensure that no mid span joint is provided in major crossings like SH/NH/
Expressway, railway crossing, 132 kV & above voltage level power lines and major

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DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

rivers etc. or as per the provision of technical specification.

Ensure that all mid span joints on conductors/ earth wire and repair sleeves of
compression type are free from sharp edges, rust and dust. Wherever grease is
specified the same shall be applied in the joints.
5.7.2 Clamping
Ensure that conductor is not over tightened in the suspension clamps.
5.7.3 Spacers, vibration dampers and copper bonds
Placement and number of spacers/ spacer-dampers on the bundle conductors on
each phase shall be verified as per spacer/ spacer damper placement chart.
Damaged/ missing spacers/ spacer-dampers shall be replaced and loose/ displaced
spacers/ spacer-dampers shall be tightened/ relocated.
In case of tension towers, one additional spacer/ spacer damper shall be placed
within 10 meters of dead-end clamp.
Spacing of Vibration dampers from the tower and spacing between damper to
damper shall be verified as per the damper placement chart. All loose/ displaced VD
shall be properly tightened/ relocated and missing VDs shall be provided.
It is to be ensured that no copper/ aluminum bond is loose/ missing.
5.7.4 Jumpers
Verify Jumper drop (i.e., distance between cross-arm and null point of jumper) as
per drawing. All jumpers shall be checked for proper tightening and missing bolts. In
case, jumpers (Conductor/ Earth wire) are found loose, it shall be tightened properly
before line charging.
Geotagged Digital Photographs of such conformance for all jumper connections are
to be handed over to taking over team and photographs are to be preserved by
taking over team for record.
Jumper drop need to be measured for all tension tower locations and to be handed
over to RHQ-AM. RHQ-AM will cross check 5% of measurement value on sample
basis. If any abnormality is found in readings, additional 5% sample checking to be
done. The sample checking process to be repeated till all abnormality related to
jumper drop are resolved.

Transmission 66 132 220 400 765 ± 500 ± 800

voltage kV) HVDC HVDC
Jumper Drop 1.3 1.8 2.4 3.6 6.1 4 7.8(Pole)
(In meter) 2.6(DMR

5.7.5 Foreign material

Ensure that all foreign materials like ropes, dead bird, fallen tree branches; bird
nests etc. on conductors, earth wires/OPGW, jumper, insulator string, cross arms
are removed.
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CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

5.7.6 Others
It shall be ensured that all temporary/ local earthing, guys, T & P (Tools and Plants),
foreign material, Pilot rope used in OPGW stringing and other loose material, which
were used during stringing/ tower erection, have been removed.
If, there is any change in the ground profile before commissioning of line from the
approved profile, the extra earth/ obstruction/ temporary sheds/ any other
construction shall be removed.
5.8 AVIATION WARNING OBSTRUCTION SIGNALS (LIGHTS/ GLOBULES/ PAINTING)
It shall be ensured that following measures have been taken in the line/ Towers
falling within obstruction zone of civil aviation and defense establishments as per IS-
5613(latest revision), ICAO Guidelines and POWERGRID specification.
5.8.1 Day markers
5.8.1.1 Structure marking: The structure portion excluding cross arms above 45-meter
height shall be painted in alternate bands of international orange and white color as
per IS-5613(latest revision) & ICAO Guidelines.
5.8.1.2 Line markers may be provided as per the technical specification.
5.8.2 Night markers
It shall be ensured that proper aviation lights at the peak level/ at specified heights
of towers have been provided along with Solar panels/ Battery banks/ Control
cubicles and other accessories as per specification. The functioning of lights with
simulation shall be checked/ verified.
5.9 BIRD DIVERTERS
Bird diverters shall be placed in identified stretches as per conditions stipulated by
forest authority to avoid the chance of collision of birds with transmission line.
6.0 TESTING AND MEASUREMENT
6.1 Tower footing Impedance Measurement
Tower footing impedance measurement is to be carried out using tower footing
impedance tester. The value of impedance should be below 10 ohms. If impedance
value is higher than 10 ohms, additional counterpoise type earthing/ chemical
earthing shall be provided to bring the tower footing impedance value below 10
ohms. These measurements may preferably be carried out during dry climate.

Tower footing impedance need to be measured for all tower location and the values
need to be recorded for future reference and document will be handed over to
RHQ-AM. RHQ-AM will carry out impedance measurement at 5% locations on
sample basis. Corrective action will be taken if impedance values are higher than 10
ohms.
6.2 Before commissioning of the lines following tests may be carried out:

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CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

6.2.1 Conductor Continuity test:

6.2.1.1 Objective of this test is to verify that each conductor of the overhead line is properly
connected.
A simple method of continuity test is illustrated below. Once the insulation test is
completed and the results confirm no short circuit, carryout the following testing
using 5kV/ 10 kV Insulation Tester

Sending End Receiving End Results (Ohms)

CLOSE R- Ph ground switch Test IR for R-Ph Zero/ Low
OPEN Y- Ph ground switch Test IR for Y-Ph High
OPEN B- Ph ground switch Test IR for B-Ph High
OPEN R- Ph ground switch Test IR for R-Ph High
CLOSE Y- Ph ground switch Test IR for Y-Ph Zero/ Low
OPEN B- Ph ground switch Test IR for B-Ph High
OPEN R- Ph ground switch Test IR for R-Ph High
OPEN Y- Ph ground switch Test IR for Y-Ph High
CLOSE B- Ph ground switch Test IR for B-Ph Zero/ Low
(All Ground Switch in open condition)
If the above test results are satisfactory, it confirms the continuity of the line.
6.2.1.2 The continuity Test of the line with proper phase indication or phase marking can be
checked by continuity test as described below:
Receiving End IR value
Sending End Results (Ohms)
in between
Connect R & Y phase. R & Y Phase Zero Or Low
B-phase & all GS Y & B Phase High
open B & R Phase High
Connect R & B phase. R & Y Phase High
Y-phase & all GS Y & B Phase High
open B & R Phase Zero Or Low
Connect Y & B phase R & Y Phase High
R-phase & all GS Y & B Phase Zero Or Low
open B & R Phase High

If the test results are satisfactory, it confirms that marking of the phases are in
order.
6.2.2 Insulation Resistance Test of Line
This test may be carried out using 5 kV or 10 kV Insulation Tester preferably power
driven to ascertain the insulation condition of the line. If, 5 kV Insulation Tester is
used for insulation resistance measurement, it shall be ensured that the induced
voltage (CVT reading) is less than the instrument withstanding capacity to avoid the
possibility of damage of instrument.
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CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

6.2.3 Transmission Line parameters (Z1, Z0, Zn) measurement

The Transmission line parameters measurement to be done by Substation
commissioning team and the measured line parameters need to be incorporated in
the relay setting. This is to improve the accuracy of fault locators and the distance
relays.
6.2.4 Offline Signature Analysis
Offline signature shall be taken before commissioning to ensure healthiness of
transmission line before charging. If any abnormality is found in signature, same
need to be analyzed and defects must be attended before line charging. This will be
preserved for future reference if any.
6.2.5 Phase Sequence checking/validation (After energization)
Once, the line is charged from one end, without closing the Breaker at the other
end, the Phase sequence is to be checked from the CVT output using Phase
Sequence Meter. If other charged feeders are available, Phase sequence to be
RECHECKED by the measurement of secondary voltage of both the Feeders (New
line & available charged line).
Let the secondary Voltage of CVT is 110 volts (Phase to Phase) for both the Circuit.
In case of correct Phase sequence the voltage reading shall be as follows:
Old Voltage
New Circuit
Circuit (in Volts)
R – Phase R – Phase 0
R – Phase Y – Phase 110
R – Phase B – Phase 110
Y- Phase R – Phase 110
Y- Phase Y – Phase 0
Y- Phase B – Phase 110
B- Phase R – Phase 110
B- Phase Y – Phase 110
B- Phase B – Phase 0
In case the results are not matching the phase sequence is to be re-checked and
reconfirmed before closing the breaker.

7.0 PROTECTIVE SYSTEM

Before energization, it must be ascertained that all protective systems for the line to
be energized are operative.
This includes confirmation that the protections have been properly tested and tests
have been documented as per Pre-Commissioning Procedure laid down by the
utility for S/S Bay Equipment.
It also includes verification by inspection or otherwise, if necessary, by repetition of
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CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

trip test, that the protections are actually functionally enabled. This verification
serves to prevent that energization takes place of a line where a protection has
been disabled for test or other reason.
8.0 DISPATCH PROCEDURES
All operational activities (switching etc.) must be coordinated and communicated
with the system dispatcher i.e. NTAMC/ RTAMC/ RLDC/ NLDC. In this respect, the
general procedures already established by POWERGRID, Regulator and System
Operator will be followed.
9.0 SWITCHING PROCEDURES
For each activity, the instructions to the operators and the communications to the
dispatchers will be made in writing or by confirmed telephone messages. The
switching procedures first to be properly documented step by step and understood
by everybody involved in the switching operation prior to the energization. Any
clarification required in the procedures must be resolved. The format established by
the utility for switching orders and operational data logging shall be followed. Each
and every activity must be listed and described, so that complete information is
available for detailed investigation, if required in future.
10.0 HANDING OVER
The transmission line shall be inspected prior to Energization and a formal handing
over document to be jointly signed by the representative of SUPPLIER (if available),
ERECTION AGENCY and POWERGRID. However, all contractual taking over has to be
resolved separately as per the terms and conditions of the contract. Handing over
shall be limited to the completion of Erection and ready for Energization.
The relevant format No AM/COMM/LINE/1a & AM/COMM/LINE/1b which are in
part-B of document for handing over is also a part of documentation
Any outstanding points or remaining activities are to be listed and signed jointly by
the representatives of POWERGRID and ERECTION agency as per the Format No:
AM/COMM/LINE/2 of part-B of this document. These documents are also to be
retained at line office with a copy to regional office. The remaining activities
outstanding points are classified in the following category.
Details of the SECTIONS:
A. List of outstanding activities remaining in any part of the line
B. A list of temporary arrangements introduced.
C. Check list of records properly documented, completed and signed as per Format
No: AM/COMM/LINE/1 of part-B of this document
D. Original tracing of Profile, Route Alignment, Tower Design, Structural Drawings,
Bill of Materials, Shop Drawings, stringing charts (initial and final as applicable)
etc. of all towers/ line submitted to POWERGRID.
After resolving the above-mentioned outstanding activities or with only minor
remaining points which do not influence on charging of line, handing over of the
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CORPORATE ASSET MANAGEMENT
DOCUMENT NO: D-2-01-70-01-03-Part A
DOCUMENT NAME: PRE-COMMISSIONING PROCEDURES FOR TRANSMISSION LINES

transmission line shall be accepted by the pre-commissioning team. Handing over of

transmission line for Energization with or without remaining activities shall be made
by the line in-charge to the commissioning in charge in writing as per the Format
No. AM/COMM/LINE/3 of part-B of this document
Shortcomings noticed during inspection, "List of outstanding activities" shall be
recorded as per Format No: AM/COMM/LINE/2 of part-B of this document and a
copy of the shortcomings noticed is to be given to the responsible parties like
SUPPLIER(s) and ERECTION AGENCY etc. for corrective action to be taken on a time
bound schedule.
11.0 ENERGIZATION
Execution of the energization is simply the last event in the switching sequence,
switching of the close control button for the relevant circuit breaker.
12.0 OBSERVATIONS AND DURATION
Visual and audible inspection (look and listen) of the associated equipment and
reading of permanent instruments will be made.
The system shall be kept charged for the duration prescribed as per CERC
regulation. During this time, continuous monitoring and inspection will be
maintained in control room, auxiliary systems areas and switchyards.
This will include frequent, scheduled inspection of all equipment and reading of all
permanent instruments, recorders and surge arrester counters, especially system
parameters as per standard procedures adopted by POWERGRID.
13 .0 DE-ENERGIZATION
Instructions about de-energization will be given only if, this is part of the test
otherwise de-energization will be considered part of regular operation.
14.0 ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA
Neither insulation breakdown nor protective system actions must occur. No
irregular equipment behavior noise, vibration, high temperature is permitted.
Corona discharges may not be “unreasonable”. Local discharges that may be
attributable to sharp points, shall be carefully located and recorded. After
termination of Energization, the equipment shall be closely inspected and the points
rounded or covered.
No unscheduled changes of system or of equipment are permitted during the
8-hour energized condition.
15.0 DOCUMENTATION
Switching and operational activities will be recorded in regular manner in the
operator’s log. Similarly, all readings of permanent instruments are also to be
recorded. Copies of this log notes on special observations from inspections and
other measurements will constitute the test records.

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