EE6402 - TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

2 Marks And 16 Marks- Question Bank

Unit 1- Structure of Power System
Structure of electric power system: generation, transmission and distribution;
Types of AC and DC distributors – distributed and concentrated loads –
Two marks Q&A
interconnection – EHVAC and HVDC transmission -Introduction to FACTS.

1. Mention the transmission voltages that are followed in Tamil Nadu.

( April/May 2017)
 400/230 kV substations.

 230/110 kV substations.

 110 kV substations.

 33 kV substations.

less than this kV transmissions as 22 kV and 11 kV are used for distribution.
2. List out the advantages of high voltage AC transmission.
(Nov/Dec 2012) (APR/MAY 2016)
i. Reduced line losses
ii. Reduced in current
iii. Reduction in volume of conductor material required
iv. Decrease in voltage drop and increase in transmission efficiency
v. Improvement of voltage regulation
vi. Increased power handling capacity
3. Mention the demerits of HVDC transmission. (Nov/Dec 10)
i. The dc voltages cannot be stepped up for transmission of power at high
voltages.
ii. The dc switches and circuit breakers have their own limitations.
iii. Power transmission with HVDC is not economical if the length of
transmission line is less than 500km
iv. Considerable reactive power is required by converter station.
v. Maintenance of insulator is more.
4. Why transmission lines are 3 phase 3-wire circuits while distribution
lines are 3 phase 4 wire circuits? (Nov/Dec 13)
A Balanced 3 phase circuit does not require the neutral conductor, as the
instantaneous sum of the 3 line currents is zero. Therefore the transmission lines
and feeders are 3 phase 3 wire circuits. The distributors are 3 phase 4 wire circuits
because a neutral wire is necessary to supply the 1 phase loads of domestic and
commercial consumers.
5. List out the basic types of FACTS controllers. (April/May 2011)
i. Series controller
ii. Shunt controller
iii. Combined series series controller
iv. Combined series shunt controller
6. List out the practical transmission and distribution voltage levels commonly used.

6.6 KV, 10.5 KV, 11 KV, 13.8

GENERATION
KV, 15.75 KV
TRANSMISSION PRIMARY 220KV, 110 KV, 132 KV, 765 KV
SECONDARY 33 KV or 66 KV
PRIMARY 11 KV or 6.6 KV
DISTRIBUTION 415 V for 3
SECONDARY
230 V for 1
7. What are the various types of HVDC systems? (May/June 2013)
i. Monopolar
ii. Bipolar
iii. Homopolar
iv. Back to back coup[ling
v. Multi terminal HVDC system
8. Name any four types of line supports.
Wooden poles, RCC poles, Steel tubular poles, Steel towers
9. Differentiate a primary distribution and secondary distribution with the help of a diagram.
S.NO PRIMARY DISTRIBUTION SECONDARY DISTRIBUTION
1 Also called high voltage Also called low voltage
distribution distribution

2 Uses 3φ 3 wire system Uses 3φ 4 wire system

3 Voltage level is 6.6 KV Voltage level is 230 V for 1φ
and 415 V for 3φ
10. What are the applications of HVDC transmission system?
(Nov/Dec2016)
i. Long distance bulk power transmission
ii. Underground or under water cables
iii. Asynchronous interconnection of AC system operating at different frequencies
or where independent control of system is desired
iv. Control and stabilization of power flows in AC ties in an integrated power
system.

11. State the various devices used in FACTS.

i. Static synchronous compensator(STATCOM)
ii. Static synchronous generator
iii. Static VAR compensator
iv. Thyristor switched capacitor
12. Define breakeven distance in HVDC transmission
A graph is plotted between the cost and distance of line in Km by taking cost along
y axis and line in Km along x axis.
The curves for AC and DC transmission intersect each other at a point called
breakeven point. Distance measured till breakeven point is called breakeven
distance.

13. Draw a single line diagram of a modern electric power system.

14. What is meant by STATCOM?

It is shunt connected static VAR compensator whose capacitive or inductive output
current can be controlled independently of the AC system voltage.

15. Explain the term regional grid.

In order to achieve economy, reliability and continuity in the supply individual
power systems that are generating electrical power are arranged in the form of
electrically connected areas called regional grid.

16. Why high voltage is preferred for power transmission? (APR/MAY

2015) (Nov/Dec2015)
The power that is generated will be of high current. In order to reduce the current
voltage is increased so that the copper usage will be reduced.

Another reason for high voltage transmission is that losses can be reduced.
17. State the advantages of EHVAC transmission system
i. With the increase in transmission voltage, the transmission efficiency
increases for a given amount of power to be transmitted over a given
ii. distance
iii. Voltage regulation is improved, because of reduction in line losses
iv. The volume of conductor material decreases, being inversely proportional to
the square of transmission voltage
18. Mention the terminal equipments in HVDC system.
i. DC line inductors.
ii. Harmonic filter on DC side
iii. Converter transformers
iv. Reactive power source
v. Harmonic filter on AC side
vi. Ground electrodes

19. What is the necessity of FACTS? What are the objectives of FACTS?
(APR/MAY 2016) (NOV/DEC 2017)
The FACTS technology makes use of power electronic promotes the control of
transmission line. It also increase load on the line upto the thermal limits without
having compromise with the reliability.

20. What are the components of Power System? (May/June 2014)

 Generators,
 Transformer
 Transmission Lines,
 Control Equipments,
21. How does a.c. distribution differ from the d.c distribution? (Nov/Dec 14)
In case of ac distribution, The power generated is always in AC. It is then
stepped up and down appropriately Then distributed at around 11kV and finally
440V (3 phase) for household usage. The frequency is maintained at around 50
Hertz. Not much of power conversion is required here. 
In case of DC, the generated voltage 11kV is stepped up and converted to high
voltage DC. Load in this dc distribution act at a particular point and also the same
load may act at both the end of the lines. This is done using power electronic
converters. At the receiving end, the voltage is converted back to AC. This is done by
inverters. This is then distributed. The main advantage is that the power factor can
be maintained at unity.
22. What are the factors on which conductor spacing and ground
clearance depend? ( Nov/Dec 14)
 Nominal system Voltage,
 Maximum Voltage,
 Size of the conductor,
 Sag and Tension,
 Diameter and shape of conductor.
23. What is a feeder/Distributor? (May/June 13) (Nov/Dec2015)
(Nov/Dec2016)
Feeder is a conductor which connects the substation or localized generating station
to the area where power is to be distributed.
24. What is ring main distribution? (Nov/Dec 2012) ( April/May 2017)
A ring distributor is a distributor which is arranged to form a closed circuit and is
fed at one or more than one point.
Advantages are,
i. Less voltage fluctuations at consumer’s terminals. Less copper is required
ii. Each part of the ring carries less current than in radial system.
25. Distinguish between radial and ring main distribution.
S.NO RADIAL RING MAIN
DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION
1 Fed at one end only Fed at one or more points
2 More voltage Less voltage fluctuation at
fluctuation at far end consumers terminals
3 Less reliable More reliable
4 Straight line Forms a closed loop.
distributor with both
ends

26. State the advantages of interconnected systems.

Any area fed from one generating station during overload hours can be fed from
another power station and thus reserved capacity required is reduced, reliability of
supply is increased and efficiency is increased.
27. Mention the disadvantages of a 3 wire system
In 3 wire system a third wire is required .The safety is partially reduced .A balancer
is required and therefore cost is increased.
28. What are the advantages of a 3 wire dc distribution system over a 2 wire
dc distribution system?
If 3 wire system is used to transmit the same amount of power over the same
distance with same efficiency with same consumer voltage we require 0.3125 times
copper as required in 2 wire system.
Unit 1-Structure of Power System
Descriptive type Questions
1. Draw and explain the structure of typical electric power system with various
voltage levels. (May/June2013) (Nov/Dec 2013) (Apr/May 2011) ( April/May
2017) (NOV/DEC 2017)(May/June2014)
2. List out the advantages of higher operating voltage. And then compare EHVAC
system with HVDC system (May/June2013)(Nov/Dec 2013)
3. Discuss in detail the problem associated with EHV AC transmission. Also
state how these problems are being solved? (Nov/Dec2014)
4. What are the basic types of FACTS controllers? And explain. (Nov/Dec2014)
5. List out the objectives of FACTS. (Nov/Dec 2013)
6. Explain the advantages of HVDC lines. (Nov/Dec 2012)
7. Describe the types of HVDC links in detail.(Nov/Dec 2011) (Nov/Dec 2012)
8. Discuss in detail the various equipments used in HVDC converter station.
(Nov/Dec 2010)
9. Explain in detail the advantages,disadvantages and application of HVDC
transmission (16) (APR/MAY 2015)

10. Derive suitable expressions, draw current loading diagram and voltage drop
diagram for uniformly loaded distributor of length ‘f’ fed at one end. How is power
loss in the whole distributor computed? (Nov/Dec2015)

11. A uniform two wire DC distributor 250m long is loaded with 0.4A/m and is
fed at one end. If the maximum permissible voltage drop is not exceed 10V,find the
cross sectional area of the distributor conductor. Take ρ=1.78x10-8 Ωm.
(Nov/Dec2015)

12. Explain with a neat layout the modern EHV system. What is the highest
voltage level available in India for EHV transmission?(16) (APR/MAY 2015)

13. Discuss briefly each of the following (Nov/Dec 2010)

i. Interconnected System
ii. Radial distribution
iii. Ring main distribution
iv. Design consideration in distribution system. (Nov/Dec 2013)
14. An electric train taking a constant current of 600 A moves on a section of line
between two substations 8 km and maintained at 575 and 590 volts respectively.
The track resistance is 0.04 ohm per km both go and return. Find the point of
minimum potential along the track and currents supplied by two substations at
that instant.
15. Write Short notes on the following, (Nov/Dec 2014)
 Ring Main Distributor
 Current Distribution in a 3 wire d.c system
 Balancers
 3 Phase 4 wire a.c distribution. (4+4+4+4=16)
16. Find the ratio of volume of copper required to transmit the power over a given
distance by overhead system using. (May/June 2013)
(i) Dc 2wire and 3 wire system,
(ii) 3phase, 3 wire AC system.
17. Explain the following,
(i) Stepped or tapered distributor
(ii) Ring main distributor
(iii) DC distributor fed at one end
(iv) DC distributor fed at both ends (Nov/Dec2012)
18. Explain the following,(Nov/Dec2012, Nov/Dec 2011, Apr/May 2011)
(i) Main transfer bus
(ii) Ring bus
(iii) Double bus bar with single breaker
(iv) Double bus bar with by pass isolators
19. (a)(i)Explain the structure of electric power system (8) (Apr/May 2016)
(ii)A two-wire dc ring main distributor ABCDEA is fed at point A with 230V
supply. The resistance of go and return conductors of each section AB, BC,
CD, DE, AE are 0.1 ohm. The main supplies the loads of 10A at B, 20A at C,1
0A at D,30A at E. Find the voltage at each load point.(8)
(OR)
(b)(i)Explain the different types of FACTS controllers.(8)
(ii) Explain the different HVDC links.(8)

20. (a)(i)Explain the effect of high voltage on volume of copper and on efficiency.
(8) (Nov/Dec2016)
(ii)Derive suitable expression to determine the voltage drop and power loss in an
uniformly loaded distributor of length ‘l’ fed at both ends with equal voltage (8)
(OR)
(b)(i)Make comparison between EHVAC and HVDC system based on economics. 8)
(ii) Explain the different HVDC links.(8) (Nov/Dec2016)
21. (b)(i) Compare the overhead and underground distribution system (8)
(ii) State the advantages of Interconnected system.(5) ( April/May 2017)
22. ii) Draw and explain a simple model of UPFC.(5) (NOV/DEC 2017)
23. b) i) Briefly discuss the technical advantageous of HVDC over HVAC
transmission system.(8) (NOV/DEC 2017)
ii) Explain the application of HVDC transmission system.5) (NOV/DEC 2017)
Unit 2- TRANSMISSION LINE PARAMETERS
Parameters of single and three phase transmission lines with single and double
circuits - Resistance,inductance and capacitance of solid, stranded and bundled
conductors, Symmetrical andunsymmetrical spacing and transposition - application
of self and mutual GMD; skin and proximityeffects - interference with neighboring
communication circuits - Typical configurations, conductor types
and electrical parameters of EHV lines, corona discharges.

Two marks
1. Why the concept of self GMD is not applicable for capacitance
calculation? (NOV/DEC 2017)
Self-GMD of a conductor depends upon the size and shape of the conductor and is
independent of the spacing between the conductors so it is not applicable for
capacitance calculation.
1. What is meant by transposition of line conductors? (April/May 2011)
(APR/MAY 2016) (NOV/DEC 2017)
It is the exchange of position of the power conductors at regular intervals along the
line so that each conductor occupies the original position of every other conductor
over an equal distance.
2. What is skin effect?(May/June 2014) (Nov/Dec 2012) (Nov/Dec 10)
(Nov/Dec2016) State skin effect in transmission lines. Mention its effect on
the resistance of the line. ( April/May 2017)
When a conductor carries a steady or D.C current, this current is uniformly
distributed over the whole cross section of the conductor. However the current
distribution is non-uniform if the conductor carries alternating current. The current
density is higher at the surface than at the center. Thus the current is concentrated
near the surface of the conductor. This effect becomes predominant with increase in
frequency. This behavior of alternating current to concentrate near the surface of
the conductor is known as skin effect.
The skin effect causes the effective resistance of the conductor to increase at
higher frequencies where the skin depth is smaller, thus reducing the effective
cross-section of the conductor. 
3. Mention the advantages of using bundled conductors. (Nov/Dec2016)
i. Reduced reactance
ii. Reduced voltage gradient
iii. Reduced corona loss
iv. Reduced radio Interference
v. Reduced surge impedance.
2. What is the need of transposition? (Nov/Dec 2011) (NOV/DEC 2017)
i. To make voltage drops equal for all the phases
ii. Reduce the disturbance to nearby communication circuits
iii. Effect of unbalanced current is neutralized.
4. Define the term critical disruptive voltage. (Nov/Dec 2013)
It is the minimum phase to neutral voltage at which the electric field intensity at the
surface of the conductor exceeds the critical value and generates corona.
5. What is proximity effect? (May/June 2014) (May/June 2013)(April/May
2011) (APR/MAY 2015)
The alternating magnetic flux in a conductor caused by the current flowing in a
neighboring conductor gives rise to a circulating current which cause an apparent
increase in the resistance of the conductor. This phenomenon is called as proximity
effect.
6. Differentiate the stranded conductor and bundled conductor.
S.NO STRANDED CONDUCTOR BUNDLED CONDUCTOR
It is the conductors made of thin It is a conductor made up of two or
wires of small cross section and more conductors called sub
1 bunched together conductors, per phase in close
proximity compared with space
between phases
2 Reactance is more Reactance is less
3 More corona loss Less corona loss
More interference with Less interference with
4
communication lines communication lines
7. List out the advantages of double circuit lines.
Advantages of double circuit lines:
i. Half of the load is shared by the other line
ii. The increase in load current can be easily handled
iii. In case of power failure in one circuit, the power will be supplied by the other
lines
8. Define - Self and mutual – G.M.D.(NOV/DEC 2015)
Self -GMD (GMR): The self-GMD means self-geometrical mean distance. It reduces
the complexity of inductance calculation.

GMR = 0.7788 r

Mutual GMD: The mutual GMD is the geometrical mean of the distances from one
conductor to the other.

9. What is meant by inductive interference?

Usually, communication lines are run along the power lines; in some cases,
these lines are run on the same support and the same route. Under such conditions
the power lines are likely to interfere with the communication lines. The interference
is mainly due to electromagnetic and electrostatic fields.

10. State different types of overhead conductors. ( April/May 2017

 AAC : All Aluminium Conductor
 AAAC : All Aluminium Alloy Conductor
 ACSR : Aluminium Conductor, Steel Reinforced
 ACAR : Aluminium Conductor, Alloy Reinforced

11. State why transposition of line conductors are needed? Or What is the
need of transposition? (Nov/Dec 2011)
In order to make voltage drops equal in all conductors, generally we
interchange the positions of the conductors at regular intervals along the line so
that each conductor occupies the original position of every other conductor over an
equal distance. Such an exchange of conductor position is called transposition.

12. What are the factors that affect the skin effect?
Factors that affect the skin effect:

i. Nature of the material

ii. Diameter of wire – increases with the increase diameter of wire
iii. Frequency – increases with increase in frequency
iv. Shape of wire – less for stranded conductor than that for the solid conductor
13. Why the effective resistance is more than the static resistance of a
transmission line?
Due to skin effect, the effective area of cross-section of a conductor through
which current flows is reduces. Consequently, the resistance of the conductor
slightly increases when carrying an alternating current. Hence the effective
resistance or AC resistance of a transmission line is greater than static or DC
resistance due to the skin effect.

14. Why does a transmission lines have resistance, inductance, and

capacitance
A transmission line has resistance, inductance, and capacitance uniformly
distributed along the whole length of the line. The each parameter is defined as
follows.

Resistance: This is due to the opposition offered by the conductor to the flow of
current.

Inductance: When an alternating current flows through a conductor, a changing

flux is set up that links the conductor. Due to these flux linkage, the conductor
possesses an inductance.

Capacitance: The conductors of an overhead transmission line are separated by air,

which acts as an insulation. Therefore, a capacitance exists between any two
overhead line conductors.

15. List the factors that governing the capacitance of a transmission line.
Factors that governing the capacitance of transmission line:

i. The potential of the conductor

ii. Spacing between the lines
iii. Distance between the line and earth
iv. The length of lines
v. Number of conductors per phase
16. Write the advantages of ACSR conductor when used for overhead line.
i. Line span can be increased
ii. They have low corona loss
iii. Skin effect is less
iv. They are inexpensive
17. What is the effect of bundled conductors on transmission line
inductance?
With the use of bundled conductors, there is increase in GMR. The formula for
inductance contains the term GMR in the denominator. Hence the inductance of a
bundled conductor line is less than the inductance of the line with one
conductor/ph.

18. Give the minimum ground clearance required for 33 KV, 66 KV, 110 KV,
220 KV lines.

For 33 KV – 5.18 m
66 KV – 5.4848 m
110 KV – 5.89 m
220 KV – 6.9 m
19. Why skin effect is absent in dc system?
When a conductor carries a steady or D.C current, this current is uniformly
distributed over the whole cross section of the conductor. That is why skin effect is
absent in D.C system

20. Define voltage regulation of transmission line. (Nov/Dec 13)

(Nov/Dec 12)
Voltage regulation is defined as the change in voltage at the receiving (or load) end
when the full-load is thrown off, the sending-end (or supply) voltage and supply
frequency remaining unchanged

Where Vs is the voltage at the sending end

Vr is the receiving end voltage.
21. State Kelvin’s Law for size of transmission conductor.( Nov/Dec 14)
The annual expenditure on the variable part of the transmission system should be
equal to the annual cost of energy wasted in the conductor used in that system.
22. Give the advantages of bundled conductors. (Nov/Dec 14)(Nov/Dec 10)
 Reduced reactance, Reduced voltage gradient,
 Reduced corona loss, Reduced Interference
23. Define: Visual Critical Voltage.(May/June 2013) (Nov/Dec 2011)
It is the critical voltage at which the corona is viewed as faint violet luminescence
glow to our naked eyes.
24. Write the expression for capacitance of single phase line.(Nov/Dec 2012)
C=2πε0 / log (d/r) F/m
25. A three phase transmission line has its conductor at the centers of an
equilateral triangle with side 3m.The diameter of each conductor is
1.63cm.Find the inductance per km per phase of the line. (APR/MAY 2015)

Unit 2- TRANSMISSION LINE PARAMETERS

Descriptive type Questions Q&A
1. From the fundamentals derive an expression for inductance of a single-phase
transmission system. (NOV/DEC 2017)
2. Derive an expression for capacitances of a single-phase transmission system
and discuss the effect of earth on capacitance with suitable equation.
3. Derive expressions for the inductance of three-phase line with conductors un
transposed (symmetrical). What is the significance of imaginary term in the
expression for inductance? Hence derive the expression for inductance for a
completely transposed line. (NOV/DEC 2017)
4. Derive the expression for capacitance of three-phase transmission line with
symmetrical & unsymmetrical spacing. ( Nov/Dec 13)
5. A 400 KV, 3-phase bundled conductor line with two sub-conductors per
phase has a horizontal configuration as shown in Fig. The radius of each sub-
conductors is 1.6 cm. (1) Find the inductance per phase per km of the line (2)
Compute the inductance of the line with only one conductor per phase having the
same cross-sectional area of the conductor of each-phase.

6. A 220 KV 50 HZ 200 Km long three phase line has its conductors on the
corners of a triangle with sides 6m, 6m and 12m. The conductor radius is 1.81 cm.
Find the inductance & capacitance per phase per Km. ( Nov/Dec 10)
7. A single phase transmission line has two parallel conductors 3 m apart, the
radius of each conductor being 1 cm. Calculate the loop inductance per km length
of the line if the material of the conductors is (1) copper (2) steel with relative
permeability of 100.
8. Derive the capacitance of a three-phase overhead line. (May/June 2014)
9. Estimate the corona loss for a three-phase, 110 KV, 50 Hz, 150 Km-long
transmission line consisting of three conductors each of Id mm diameter and
spaced 2.5m apart in a equilateral triangle" formation. The temperature of air is 300
C and the atmospheric pressure is 750 mm of mercury. Assume irregularity factor
as 0.85. Ionization of air may be assumed to take place at a maximum voltage
gradient of 30Kv/cm. (May/June 2014)
10. Derive an expression for the flux linkages of one conductor in a group of n-
conductors carrying currents whose sum is zero. Hence derive an expression for
inductance of composite conductors of a single phase consisting of m-strands in
one conductor and n-strands in the other conductor.( Nov/Dec 14)
11. Explain the concept of self GMD and mutual GMD for evaluating
inductance of transmission line. ( Nov/Dec 14)
12. Derive an expression for capacitance per phase for a 3 phase overhead line
when the conductors are unsymmetrical placed but completely transposed.
( Nov/Dec 12) (Apr/May 2011) (Nov/Dec 14)
13. Derive an expression for inductance per phase for a 3 phase overhead line
when the conductors are unsymmetrical placed but completely transposed.
(Nov/Dec 10) ( May/June2013)
14. Determine the capacitance and charging current per unit length of the line.
The line is completely transposed and diameter is 15mm and operating voltage is
220kV. ( Nov/Dec 14)
15. Discuss the factors which affecting corona loss (Apr/May 2011)(Nov/Dec
11) Explain the factors affecting corona loss and the methods of reducing corona
loss. ( April/May 2017)
16. Derive the expression for the voltage induced in communication lines due
to the current in power lines. ( Nov/Dec 11)
17. Explain the following,( Nov/Dec 12)
(i) Corona Effect
(ii) Disruptive critical voltage
(iii) Visual critical voltage
(iv) Corona power loss
18. Derive the capacitance of a single-phase overhead line.(May/June 2013)
19. Explain the interference between power and communication circuits
(Nov/Dec 13)
20. Explain about skin and proximity effects. ( Nov/Dec 13)
21. Derive n expression for loop inductance of a single phase transmission
system(16) ( Nov/Dec 15)
22. Derive from first principles the capacitance per km to neutral of three
phase overhead transmission line with overhead transmission line with
unsymmetrical spacing of conductors assuming transportation (16) ( Nov/Dec 15)
23. Explain the following with respect to corona(i) corona(ii) effects of
corona(iii)disruptive critical voltage(iv)visual critical voltage(v)corona power loss.
Also explain the interference with neighboring communication circuits(16) AP/MY
2015)

24. A three phase circuit consists of 7/4.5mm hard drawn copper conductors.
The arrangement of the conductors is shown in Figure.12.b.The line is completely
transposed. Calculate inductive reactance per phase per km of the system(16)
(APR/MAY 2015)

25. (a)Derive the expression for the capacitance of a three phase transmission
line with unsymmetrical spacing.(16) (APR/MAY 2016) (NOV/DEC 2017)

26. (b)Determine the inductance per km of a double circuit 3ɸ line as shown in

Fig.Q.12 (b).The transmission line is transposed within each circuit and each circuit
remains on its own side. The diameter of each conductor is 15mm.(16) (APR/MAY

2016)

27. (a)(i)Derive the expression for the inductance of a three phase transmission
line with unsymmetrical spacing.(8) ( Nov/Dec 16)
(ii) A 220kV,50Hz, 200km long transposed three phase line has its conductors
on the corners of triangle with sides 6m, 6m and 10m.The conductor radius is
1.81cm. Find the capacitance per phase per km of the line.(8)
(OR)
(b)Explain the formation of corona, critical voltages, corona loss, advantages,
disadvantages and methods to reduce the effect of corona. (16) ( Nov/Dec 16)
28. (b)(i) Explain the advantages of bundled conductors when used for overhead
lines (4) ( April/May 2017)

(ii) Determine the inductance of 3 phase line operating at 50 Hz and the conductor
are arranged as shown below. The conductor diameter is 0,.7cm (9) ( April/May
2017)
Unit 3- MODELLING AND PERFORMANCE OF TRANSMISSION LINES

Classification of lines - short line, medium line and long line - equivalent circuits,
phasor diagram,attenuation constant, phase constant, surge impedance;
transmission efficiency and voltage regulation, real and reactive power flow in lines,
Power - circle diagrams, surge impedance loading,
methods of voltage control; Ferranti effect.

Two marks Q&A

1. Define Ferranti effect. (Nov/Dec 13) (Nov/Dec 10) (APR/MAY 2015)
( April/May 2017) (May/June 13) (Nov/Dec 2011) (APR/MAY 2016)
For along transmission line under no load condition, the voltage at the receiving end
is more than that at sending end because of the effect of the line capacitance. This
effect is called as Ferranti effect.
2. What is shunt compensation? (Nov/Dec 10)
Shunt compensation is the uses of shunt capacitors and shunt reactors in the line
to avoid voltage instability.
3. Distinguish between attenuation and phase constant. (Nov/Dec 2011)
S.NO ATTENUATION CONSTANT. PHASE CONSTANT.
The real part of propagation The imaginary part of propagation
1
constant constant
2 It is denoted by α It is denoted by β
It is the change in the magnitude It is the change in the phase per unit
3
per unit length of the line length of the line
It is expressed in nepers per unit It is expressed in radians per unit
4
length length
4. What are the factors which govern the performance of transmission line?
(April/May 2011)
i. Series resistance
ii. Series inductance
iii. Series capacitance
iv. Series conductance.
5. What is surge impedance loading? (April/May 2011)
Surge impedance loading of a line is the power delivered by a line to a purely
resistive load equal to its surge impedance.
6. Classify transmission line based on its length. How are transmission line
classified? .(Nov/Dec 2017)
i. Short transmission
ii. Medium transmission
iii. Long transmission
7. Define transmission efficiency.(Nov/Dec 2015)
Efficiency defined as the ratio of power delivered at the receiving end to the power
sent from the sending end.

8. Give the formula for surge impedance(Nov/Dec 2015)

Where Zoc and Zsc are impedances measured at sending end with the receiving open
circuited and short circuited.
9. Define corona. (APR/MAY 2016)
When an alternating potential difference is applied across two conductors whose
spacing is large as compared to their diameters, there is no apparent change in the
condition of atmospheric air surrounding the wires if the applied voltage is low.
However, when the applied voltage exceeds a certain value, called critical disruptive
voltage, the conductors are surrounded by a faint violet glow called corona.
The phenomenon of corona is accompanied by a hissing sound, production of
ozone, power loss and radio interference. This phenomenon happens due to
ionization of air and it is called corona.
10. What is the cause of Ferranti effect?
Under light load condition or no load condition of a long transmission line, Ferranti
effect exists.
11. What are the different methods of reducing corona loss?
i. By increasing the conductor size
ii. By increasing the conductor spacing.
iii. By using hollow and bundled conductors.
12. What are the main disadvantages of corona?
i. Corona is accompanied by a loss of energy. This affects the transmission
efficiency of the line.
ii. Ozone is produced by corona and may cause corrosion of the conductor due
to chemical action.
iii. The current drawn by the line due to corona is non-sinusoidal and hence
non-sinusoidal voltage drop occurs in the line. This may cause inductive
interference with neighbouring communication lines.
13. What is the use of power circle diagram?
Circle diagram helps us to study various aspects of power transmission at sending
end and receiving end.
PR, PS, QR, Qs, ,δ,α,βcan be calculated.
14. List out the methods of representation of medium line.
i. Nominal T method
ii. Nominal п method
iii. End condenser method
15. Mention the factors affecting corona.
i. Atmosphere
ii. conductor size
iii. spacing between conductors and line voltage.
16. Define critical disruptive voltageNov/Dec 2011)
It is defined as the minimum phase voltage at which corona occurs.
17. What are the main advantages of corona?
Due to corona formation, the air surrounding the conductor becomes conducting
and hence virtual diameter of the conductor is increased. The increased diameter
reduces the electrostatic stresses between the conductors.
Corona reduces the effects of transients produced by surges.
18. Why series compensation is used in long series?
i. To increase transmission capacity
ii. To improve system stability.
iii. To obtain correct load division between parallel circuits.
19. Give any two reasons to minimize the reactive power transfer in lines.
i. Leads to voltage stability.
ii. Results in greater real and reactive losses.
20. Define Voltage Regulation of a Transmission Line. (Nov/Dec 13)
(Nov/Dec 12) (May/June 2014)
Voltage regulation is defined as the change in voltage at the receiving end (load) and
when the full load is thrown off, the sending end (supply) voltage and supply
frequency remains unchanged.
% Voltage Regulation = ((Vs-Vr)/Vr)*100
Where Vs=Sending End Voltage,
Vr=Receiving End Voltage.
21. What is the difference between nominal T and nominal π methods?
(May/June 2014)
In nominal T method, the total capacitance of each conductor is concentrated at
the centre of the line and half the line impedance is lumped on its either side.
Which is used for obtaining the performance calculation of medium lines.
In nominal π method, one half of the total capacitance of each conductor is lumped
at both the ends. Which is used for obtaining the performance calculations of a
medium line.
22. What is meant by ‘natural loading’ of a transmission lines? ( Nov/Dec 14)
The natural or surge impedance loading or SIL of a transmission line is the MW
loading of a transmission line at which a natural reactive power balance occurs. It is
the maximum power transmitted when a lossless line operating at its nominal
voltage, is terminated with a resistance equal to surge impedance of the line.
23. Why the control of reactive power is essential for maintaining a desired
voltage profile? (Nov/Dec 14)
 To produce substantially flat voltage profile,
 To improve the system stability,
 To increase the power transfer capacity.
24. What is the range of surge impedance for over head lines? (May/June 13)
 For Over head lines, surge impedance is 400 ohm.
25. What is the range of surge impedance for under ground lines?
(May/June 13)
 For Underground lines, surge impedance is 40-50 ohm.
26. What is the importance of voltage control? (APR/MAY 2015)
The task of voltage control is closely associated with fluctuating load conditions and
corresponding requirements of reactive power compensation. Therefore several
voltage control methods are employed in power system to keep the voltage levels
within the desirable limits. 
27. Mention the significance of surge impedance loading(APR/MAY 2016)
(APR/MAY 2017)
Surge Impedance Loading is a very essential parameter when it comes to the study
of power systems as it is used in the prediction of maximum loading capacity
of transmission lines.
28. States the condition for maximum power delivered and draw the power
angle diagram. ( Nov/Dec 16)
29. Mention the various methods of voltage control in transmission lines.
( Nov/Dec 16)
 Excitation control and voltage regulators at the generating stations:

 Use of tap changing transformers at sending end and receiving end of the
transmission lines

 Switching in shunt reactors during low loads or while energizing long EHV
lines

 Switching in shunt capacitors during high loads or low power factor loads

 use of series capacitors in long EHV transmission lines and distribution

lines in case of load fluctuations

 Use of tap changing transformers in industries, substations, distribution

substations

 use of static shunt compensation having shunt capacitors and

thyristorized control for step-less control of reactive power

 Use of synchronous condensers in receiving end substations for reactive

power compensation
Unit 3- MODELLING AND PERFORMANCE OF TRANSMISSION LINES
Descriptive type Questions Q&A
1. A 3 - phase, 50 Hz, 40 Km long overhead line has the following line constants:
resistance per phase per Km = 0.153 ohm, inductance per phase per Km = 1.21
mH, capacitance per phase per Km = 0.00958 µ F. The line supplies a load of 20
MW at 0.9 power factor lagging at a line voltage of 110 KV at the receiving end. Use
nominal π representation; calculate sending end voltage, sending end current,
sending end power factor, regulation and efficiency. (Nov/Dec 2013)
2. A three phase 5 km long transmission line, having resistance of 0.5 Ω/ km
and inductance of 1.76 mH/km is delivering power at 0.8 pf lagging. The receiving
end voltage is 32 kV. If the supply end voltage is 33 kV, 50 Hz, find line current,
regulation and efficiency of the transmission line
3. The A, B, C, D constants of a 3 phase transmission line are A = D = 0.936 +
jO.016, B = 33.5 + j138 ohm, C = (-0.9280 + j901.223)xl0-6 mho. The load at the
receiving end is 40 MW at 220 kV with power factor of 0.86 lagging. Find the
magnitude of the sending end voltage, current, power, line efficiency and the voltage
regulation. Assume the magnitude of the sending end voltage remains constant.
4. A 200 Km long three phase transmission line has a resistance of 48.7 ohms
per phase, inductive reactance of 80.20 ohms per phase and capacitance (line to
neutral) 8.42nF per Km. It supplies a load of 13.5 MW at a voltage of 88 KV and
power factor 0.9 lagging. Using nominal T circuit, find the sending end voltage,
current, regulation and power angle. (Apr/May 2011)
Derive expressions for regulation and efficiency of a short transmission line. Draw
required circuit and phasor diagram(NOV/DEC 2017)
5. A three phase transmission line having a series impedance (20+j30)Ω delivers
7MW at 33kV and 0.8 lagging power factor. Find the sending and voltage,
regulation and power angle. Neglect shunt capacitance.(6) (NOV/DEC 2017)
6. Draw the equivalent circuit and phasor diagram with relevant equation for the
medium transmission line using (May/June 2013)
(i) End condenser method
(ii) Nominal π method and its ABCD constants. (Nov/Dec 10)
(iii) Nominal T method.
7. Explain the classification of transmission lines with their characteristics.
(Nov/Dec 14)
8. Define the following,(Nov/Dec 14)
 Surge Impedance,
 Attenuation Constant,
 Voltage Regulation,
 Transmission Efficiency.
9. A 3 phase transmission line has a series impedance of (10+j30)Ω per phase.
For receiving and sending voltages of 132kV and 140 kV respectively. Draw the
receiving end power circle diagram and determine the following,(Nov/Dec 11)
 The maximum real power delivered by the line and the load power factor
under that condition.
 The capacity of shunt compensation equipment for supplying a load of
150MVA at 0.8 pf lagging and the power angle under that condition.
 The capacity of shunt compensation equipment to maintain the above
voltage under no-load condition.
 The unity pf that the line can supply with voltages at above values.
Explain the method of drawing receiving end power circle diagrams. (16) 
(May/June 2014) ) (NOV/DEC 2017)
10. A 50 Hz, three-phase transmission line is 250 Km long. It has a total series
impedance of ohms and a shunt admittance of914 x 10-6 ohms. It delivers 5(fMw at
220 KV with a power factor of 0.9 lag. Find the: 
(i) Sending end voltage, (ii) Voltage regulation 
(iii) Transmission efficiency by nominal —T method. (16)(May/June 2014)
11. Write short notes on the following, (Nov/Dec 2013)
(i) Surge impedance loading,
(ii) Power angle curve,
(iii) Load ability limits based on thermal loading.
12. Explain the factors affecting corona loss. (May/June 2013)
13. Write short notes on corona power loss. (May/June 2013)
14. Explain about Rigorous method for long lines. (Nov/Dec 2012)
15. Assume a three-phase line has the impedance of 5+j20 ohm per phase
delivers a load of 30MW at a power factor of 0.8 lag and voltage of 33kV. Determine
 the capacity of the phase modifier to be installed at the receiving end if the voltage
at sending end is to be maintained at 33kV.(Nov/Dec 11)
Deduce an expression for the sending end and receiving end power of a line in terms
of voltages and ABCD constant. (Apr/May 2011) (NOV/DEC 2017)
16. Write a short notes on: (Nov/Dec 10)
(i) Shunt Compensation
(ii) Series Compensation
17. A balanced three phase load of 30MW is supplied at 132kv,50hz
and0.85pf.lagging by means of a transmission line. The series impedance of a single
conductor is(20+j52)Ω and the total phase neutral admittance 315x10-
6Siemen.Using nominal T method, Determine (i)A,B,C and D constants of the (i)
sending end voltage (iii)regulation of the line(16) (APR/MAY 2015)
18. Explain the real and reactive power flow in lines. Also explain the methods of
voltage control.(16) (APR/MAY 2015)
19. Draw the nominal T circuit of a medium length transmission line and derive
expressions for sending end voltage and current. Also draw the respective phasor
diagram.(16) (Nov/Dec 15)
20. Show that the real power transferred is dependent on the power angle and
reactive power transferred is dependent on the voltage drop in the line(Nov/Dec 15)
21. (a)A 3phase, 50Hz, 100km line has the following constants. Resistance /
phase / km = 0.153 ohm, inductance/phase/km = 1.21mH,
capacitance/phase/km =0.00958 µF. If the line supplies a load of 20MW at 0.9pf
lagging at 110kV at the receiving end calculate sending end current, sending end
power factor, regulation and transmission efficiency using nominal T method
(16) (APR/MAY 2016)
(OR)
(b) The constants of a three phase line are A=0.9∟2◦ and B=140∟◦ohms per
phase. The line delivers 60 MVA at 132kV and 0.8pf lagging. Draw power
circle diagrams and find (a) sending end voltage and power angle (b) the
maximum power which the line can deliver with the above values of sending
and receiving end voltages (c) the sending end power and power factor (d) line
losses.(16) (APR/MAY 2016)

22. (a)A 3ɸ, 50Hz, transmission 30km long has a total series impedance of
(40+j125) Ω and shunt admittance of 10-3 mho. The load is 50MW at 220kV with
0.8pf lag. Find the sending end voltage, current, power factor, efficiency and
regulation using nominal π-method.(16) (Nov/Dec 2016)
(OR)
(b) Derive the expression for the real and reactive power flow through transmission
lines. (16) (Nov/Dec 2016)
23. What are the different methods available for voltage control and explain any
one method. (APR/MAY 2017)
24. (b)(i)Explain the meaning of performance of lines.
(5)
25. (ii) A single phase 50 Hz generator Supplies an inductive load of 6 MW at 0.8
pf lagging by means of an overhead line 15km long. The line resistance and
inductance are 0.02 ohm/km and 0.85 mH/km. The voltage at the receiving end
s 11kV.Determine the sending end voltage and voltage regulation. (8) .
(APR/MAY 2017)
Unit 4- INSULATORS AND CABLES

Insulators - Types, voltage distribution in insulator string, improvement of string

efficiency, testing ofinsulators. Underground cables - Types of cables, Capacitance
of Single-core cable, Grading ofcables, Power factor and heating of cables,
Capacitance of 3- core belted cable, D.C cables.

Two marks Q&A

1. Define String efficiency (Nov/Dec 10) Nov/Dec 2015)
The ratio of voltage across the whole string to the product of number of discs and
the voltage across the disc nearest to the conductor is known as string efficiency.

The greater the string efficiency, the more uniform is the voltage distribution.
2. What is the necessity of grading of an underground cable? (Nov/Dec 10)
Grading of the underground cable is done to achieve uniform electrostatic stress in
the dielectric of cable.
The following are the two main methods of grading of cables:
i. Capacitance grading
ii. Intersheath grading
3. What are the advantages of string insulators? (Nov/Dec 2011)
i. Cheaper than pin type insulators for voltage greater than 33 KV
ii. Number of disc can be inserted depending upon the voltage that flows.
iii. Failure in any one unit will not affect the entire string. Replacement can be
done easily.
iv. More flexibility.
v. Conductor runs below the cross arm, so line conductors are less affected by
lightening.
vi. Arrangements act as lightening arrestors.

4. What are the causes of failure of insulators? (April/May 2011)

Causes of failure of insulators are porosity, presence of impurities and cracks,
puncture of insulator and flash over.
5. Give the importance of stay insulators.
i. In case of low voltage lines, it is necessary that the stays are to be insulated
at a height of not less than 3 meters from ground.
ii. It is used to create insulation between pole and stay clamp.
iii. In case if the insulator breaks, then the stay wire will not fall on the ground.

6. List the four main insulating materials used in cables?(May/June 13)

(Nov/Dec 2016)
i. PVC
ii. Rubber
iii. Impregnated paper
iv. Polythene

7. A 1 km long single core cable has a core diameter of 2.5cm, insulation

thickness of 1.25 cm and resistivity of the insulation is ohms-cm.

calculate the insulation resistance/km

8. What are the effects of grading of cables? List out methods of grading
also.(Nov/Dec 2011) (April/May 2017)
Uniform electrostatic stress in the dielectric of cable is achieved by grading of
cables.
Methods of grading
i. Capacitance grading
ii. Intersheath grading
9. List out the four main properties of insulating materials for cables.What
are the desirable properties of insulator? (NOV/DEC 2017)
i. High insulation resistance to avoid leakage current
ii. High dielectric strength to avoid electrical breakdown of the cable
iii. High mechanical strength to withstand the mechanical handling of cables
iv. Non-hygroscopic i.e) it should mot absorb moisture from air or soil.
v. Non inflammable
vi. Unaffected by acids and alkalies

10. Show that the insulation resistance of cable is inversely proportional to

its length.

Derivation:
Let,
r be the radius of the conductor
R be the radius of metallic sheath

be the radius of annulus

l be the length of cable

be the resistivity of insulation

Insulation resistance ohms/m

Insulation resistance per meter length is,

Rins = =
 = [ln R – ln r]

= ln ohms / m

If the cable has length of l meters, then

R= ln ohms

11. What are the various methods of improving string efficiency?

(May/June 13) (Nov/Dec 2016)
i. By using larger cross arm
ii. By grading the insulator
iii. By using guard ring

12. Give the classification of cable for and Service with operating

voltages.
i. Low tension cables - upto 1000 V
ii. High tension cables - upto 11000 V
iii. Super tension cables - from 22 KV- 33 KV
iv. Extra High tension cables - from 33 KV- 66 KV
v. Extra super tension cables - beyond 132 KV

13. Write down the expression for insulation resistance of a single core cable
(Nov/Dec 13)

R= ln ohms
14. What is the function of sheath in a cables?
The sheath does not allow the moisture to enter and protects the cable from all
external influences like chemical or electrochemical attack fire etc.
15. What is meant by serving of a cable?
A layer of fibrous material permitted with waterproof compound applied to the
exterior of the cable is called serving of a cable.
16. What is shackle Insulator? (May/June 2014)
When the low voltage transmission line meets a dead end or a corner or a sharp
curve it is subjected to a greater tension. The insulators, which are used to relieve
the low voltage line of excessive tension, are called shackle insulators.
17. What is meant by dielectric stress in a cable? (May/June 2014)
Under Operating Conditions, the insulation of a cable is subjected to electrostatic
force known as dielectric stress.
18. What are the factors to be considered while selecting a cable for a
particular service? Nov/Dec 14)

 Materials,
 Working Voltage,
 Load Current,
 Short circuit current,
 Load factor,
 Frequency,
 Acceptable Voltage Drop,
 Economics
19. Why are insulators used with overhead lines? ( Nov/Dec 14)
Insulators are used to support the conductors and withstand both the normal
operating voltage and surges due to switching and lightning. It also provide
necessary insulation between line conductors, tower and thus prevent any leakage
from conductors to earth.
20. What is the main purpose of armouring? (APR/MAY 2015)
The main purpose of armour is to provide mechanical protection, although it can
also provide part of the earth fault path. For multi-core cables steel wire armour is
most often used.
21. What are the materials mainly used in bus bars? (APR/MAY 2015)
 Alluminium busar,
 Copper busbar
 Alluminium coated copper busbar or tinned busbar.
22. A single core cable,1.7km long has a conductor radius of 13mm and an
insulation thickness of 5.8mm.The dieclectric has a relative permittivity of
2.8.Find the capacitance per meter length of cable. ( Nov/Dec 15)
23. How does grading improves string efficiency? (Nov/Dec 2013)
This method uniforms the potential distribution across each units in insulator
strings. Thereby string efficiency improves.
24. Define Grading of Cables. (Nov/Dec 12)
The process of achieving uniform electrostatic stress in the dielectric of cables is
 known as grading of cables.
25. What are the test performed on the insulators? (APR/MAY 2016)
According to the British Standard, the electrical insulator must undergo the
following tests
1. Flashover tests of insulator
2. Performance tests
3. Routine tests
26. Classify the cables used for three phase service(APR/MAY 2016)
The following types of cables are generally used for 3-phase service :
1. Belted cables — upto 11 kV
2. Screened cables — from 22 kV to 66 kV
3. Pressure cables — beyond 66 kV.
27. Specify the different types of insulators. ( April/May 2017)
1. Pin Insulator 2. Suspension Insulator 3. Strain Insulator In addition to that there
are other two types of electrical insulator available mainly for
low voltage application, e.i. Stay Insulator and Shackle Insulator
28. What is a belted-Cable? (NOV/DEC 2017)
The conductors (usually three) are bunched together and then bounded with an
insulating paper ‘belt’. In such cables, each conductor is insulated using paper
impregnated with a suitable dielectric. The gaps between the conductors and the
insulating paper belt are filled with a fibrous dielectric material such as Jute or
Hessian. This provides flexibility as well as a circular shape. As we discussed earlier
(in Construction of Cables), the jute layer is then covered by a metallic sheath and
armouring for protection. One particular speciality of this cable is that its shape
may not be perfectly circular. It is kept non-circular to use the available space more
effectively.

 
There are some limitations of such construction. Since the electric field is
tangential, the insulation provided is stressed. As a result, the dielectric strength
falls over time. Hence, such construction isn’t preferred for voltage levels above 11
kV.
Unit 4- INSULATORS AND CABLES

Descriptive type Questions Q&A

1. Explain briefly the different methods for improving string efficiency of an
insulator. (Nov/Dec 2012) (Apr/May 2011)
2. What is grading of cable. Discuss the two methods of grading of cable in
detail. (Apr/May 2011) (NOV/DEC 2017)
3. Derive the expression for insulation resistance, capacitance, electric stress
and dielectric loss of a single core cable. (Nov/Dec 2010)
4. Discuss briefly on the following types (Nov/Dec 2010)
(i) Pin type insulator(NOV/DEC 2017)
(ii) Suspension type insulator.
5. An insulator string for 66 kV line has 4 discs. The shunt capacitance between
each joint and metal work is 10% of the capacitance of each disc. Find the voltage
across the different discs and string efficiency.
6. In a 33 kV overhead line, there are three units in the string of insulators. If
the capacitance between each insulator pin and earth is 11% of self capacitance of
each insulator, find the distribution of voltage over 3 insulators and string
efficiency. Draw the equivalent circuit. (NOV/DEC 2017)
7. Draw with neat sketches and explanation of pin and suspension type
insulators. Compare their merits and dements.  (May/June 2014)
8. Discuss the capacitance grading of underground cables. (May/June 2013)
(May/June 2014)
9. Explain with neat sketch the constructional features of pin type and suspension
type insulators.
10. Each line of a 3 phase system is suspended by a string of 3 identical
insulators of self capacitance C farad. The shunt capacitance of connecting metal
work of each insulator is 0.2 C to earth and 0.1 C to line. Calculate the string
efficiency of the system, if a guard ring increases the capacitance to the line of metal
work of the lowest insulator to 0.3C. (Nov/Dec 2014)
11. Derive an expression for the insulation resistance, capacitance and the
electrostatic stress of a single core cable. (Nov/Dec 2014)
12. With neat diagram explain the constructional features of various cables.
(Nov/Dec 2012) (Nov/Dec 2011)
13. Derive an expression to determine the capacitance of a belted cable.
(Nov/Dec 2013)
14. In a 3-unit insulator the joint to tower capacitance is 20% of the capacitance
of each unit.By how much should the capacitance of the lowest unit be increased to
get a string efficiency of 90%?The remaining two units are left unchanged(16)
(APR/MAY 2015)

15. What are the various properties of insulators?Also briefly explain about
suspension type and pin type insulator.Draw the schematic diagram(16) (APR/MAY
2015)

16. Explain the role of static shielding in insulators(6). (Nov/Dec 2015)

17. A string of eight suspension insulators is to be graded to obtain uniform

distribution of voltage across the string.If the capacitance of the top unit is 10 times
the capacitance to ground of each unit,determine the capacitance of the remaining
seven units.(10) Nov/Dec 2015)

18. Explain any four insulating materials used in manufacturing of cables (6)
Nov/Dec 2015)

19. Write short notes on:

(i) Properties of Insulation material used for cables. (5)

(ii) The Capacitance per kilometer of a 3 phase belted core cable is 0.2micro
farad/km between two cores with third core connected to sheath. Calculate the
kVA. The supply voltage is 6.6kV and 30km long. (APR/MAY 2017)

20. Find the economic size of a single core cable working on a 132kv three phase
system,if a dielectric stress of 60kV/cm can be allowed(10). (Nov/Dec 2015)

21. (a)(i)Briefly explain the different methods to improve string efficiency of

suspension type insulators.(8) (APR/MAY 2016)

(ii)A three unit insulators string is fitted with a guard ring. The capacitances of the
link pins to metal work and guard ring. The capacitances of the link pins to metal
work and guard ring can be assumed to be a 15% and 5% of the capacitance of
each unit. Determine voltage distribution string efficiency.(8) (APR/MAY 2016)

(OR)

(b) Explain the methods of grading of cables with neat diagrams and equations.(16)
(APR/MAY 2016)
22. (a)(i)Explain the different types of insulators.(8) (Nov/Dec 2016)

(ii)A string of five insulator units has mutual capacitance equal to 10 times the pin
to earth capacitance, find voltage distribution across various units as the percent of
the total voltage across the string and string efficiency.

(OR)

(b) A 2km long 3 core, 3ɸ cable has capacitance 0.5 µF/km between two conductors
bunched with sheath and the third conductor. The capacitance between the
conductor is also measured when bunched together and the sheath and found to be
0.75µF/km. Determine

(i) Capacitance between phases

(ii) Capacitance between the conductor and the sheath

(iii)Effective per phase capacitance

(iv)Capacitance between two conductors connecting a third conductor to the sheath

(v) Charging current if the supply voltage is 11kV,50Hz. (16) (Nov/Dec 2016)
Unit 5- MECHANICAL DESIGN OF LINES AND GROUNDING

Mechanical design of transmission line – sag and tension calculations for different
weather conditions,Tower spotting, Types of towers, Substation Layout (AIS, GIS),
Methods of grounding.

Two marks Q&A

1. List the various substation equipments.
i. Transformer
ii. Bus bars
iii. Insulators
iv. Isolators and fuses
v. Circuit breaker
vi. Relays
vii. Lightening arresters.
2. What are the various methods of earthling in substations?(Nov/Dec
2011) ( April/May 2017)
i. Solid grounding
ii. Resistance grounding
iii. Reactance grounding
iv. Resonant grounding
3. Mention the advantages of outdoor substation over indoor substation.
(April/May 2011)
i. Time required for erection is less
ii. Future extension is easy
iii. Fault location is easy
iv. Capital cost is low
4. What are the objectives of earthling? (Nov/Dec 2013) (April/May 2011)
(Nov/Dec 2016)
Due to defective electrical apparatus and some other reasons, electricity causes
electric shock hazards for human being and animals. Grounding is of major concern
to increase the reliability of supply service, as it provides stability of voltage
conditions, prevents excessive voltage peaks during the disturbances. Grounding is
also a measure of protection against lightening.
5. Why are transmission lines 3 phase 3 wire circuits while distribution
lines are 3 phase 4 wire circuits? (Nov/Dec 10)
Transmission lines 3 phase 3 wire circuits while distribution lines are 3 phase 4
wire circuits because transmission line consists of three conductors which
represents the phases R, Y, and B whereas distribution line requires neutral in
addition with three phases to supply the 1 phase loads of domestic and commercial
consumers.
6. Classify the types of substation depending upon its physical features.
i. Indoor substation
ii. Outdoor substation
iii. Underground substation
iv. Pole mounted substation.
7. What is substation?
The assembly of apparatus used to change some characteristic ( eg: voltage , A.C to
D.C frequency power factor etc) of electric supply is called a substation.
8. What is bus bar? What are the materials mainly used for Busbar?
(APR/MAY 2015)
Busbar is a conductor to which a number of circuits are connected.
The materials used in bus bars are,
Copper and aluminium
9. What are the major equipments of a substation?(May/June 2014)
(Nov/Dec 10) (NOV/DEC 2017)
 Transformers, Circuit Breakers,
 Isolators, Current and Potential transformers,
 Bus bars, Protective relays,
 Lightning arresters,Earthing Switch,
 Shunt Capacitors, Station Battery and Charging Equipment.
10. Enumerate the various methods of neutral grounding. (May/June 2014)
 solid grounding, resistance grounding
 reactance grounding, resonant grounding
11. What is the purpose of terminal and through sub-stations in the power
system? (Nov/Dec 14)
A terminal sub-station is one in which the line supplying to the substation
terminates or ends. It may be located at the end of the main line or it may be
situated at a point away from main line route.
  A through sub-station is one in which the incoming line passes ‘through’ at
the same voltage. A tapping is generally taken from the line to feed to the
transformer to reduce the voltage to the desired level.
12. What is sag template? (May/June 2014) (Nov/Dec 2015)
A Sag Template is a very important tool with the help of which the position of towers
on the Profile is decided so that they conform to the limitations of vertical and wind
loads on any particular tower, and minimum clearances, required to be maintained
between the line conductor to ground, telephone lines, buildings, streets, navigable
canals, power lines, or any other object coming under or near the line.
13. What is the function of isolators? (Nov/Dec 13)
It is used to disconnect a part of the system for general maintenance and repairs.
14. Mention any 4 bus bar schemes used in substation. (May/June 13)
 Single bus bar arrangements
 Single bus bar arrangements with sectionalism
 Double bus bar arrangements
 Double bus bar arrangements with sectionalism
15. List type of Substations. (Nov/Dec 12) (APR/MAY 2015)
 Transformer Substations, Switching Substations
 Industrial Substations, Indoor Substations
 Outdoor Substations, Underground Substations
 Pole-mounted Substations
16. What is meant by Sag? (Nov/Dec 13) (APR/MAY 2016)
The difference between points of supports and the lowest point on the conductor is
called sag.
17. What is deviation tower? (May/June 2013)
It is the deviation from straight run and changes direction in a tower called
deviation tower. It is depend upon the stress due to conductor weight and wind
pressure.
18. Name any 2 factors affecting sag. (Nov/Dec 2012) (Nov/Dec 10) (Nov/Dec
2016) ( April/May 2017)
The length of span
The working tensile stress.
19. What is meant by tower spotting?(Nov/Dec 2015)
20. What is meant by stringing chart(APR/MAY 2016)
Stringing chart is basically a graph between Sag, Tension with Temperature. As we
want low Tension and minimum sag in our conductor but that is not possible as sag
is inversely proportional to tension. It is because low sag means a tight wire and
high tension whereas a low tension means a loose wire and increased sag.
Therefore, we make compromise between two but if the case of temperature is
considered and we draw graph then that graph is called Stringing chart

As Temperature increases then sag will increase but sag is inversely proportional to
Tension so Tension will decrease.

21. Give the significance of a stringing chart. (NOV/DEC 2017)

a. For finding the sag in the conductor
b. In the design of insulator string
c. In the design of tower
d. To find the distance between the towers
Unit 5- MECHANICAL DESIGN OF LINES AND GROUNDING

Descriptive type Questions Q&A

1. Explain briefly the various types of bus bar arrangements in a substation.
Nov/Dec 2014, Nov/Dec 2010)
2. Explain the following substation bus schemes.
i. main and transfer bus
ii. Double bus bar with bypass isolators. (May/June2013)
3. Explain the following:
i. Solid grounding
ii. Reactance grounding
iii. Indoor Substations
iv. Outdoor Substations
4. Explain about the various types of substations equipments. (Nov/Dec 2013)
5. Explain in detail the various types of bus bar arrangements. (May/June
2014)
6. Explain the various types of d.c. distributors. (May/June 2014)
7. What are the different types of bus bar arrangements used in substations?
Illustrate your answer with suitable diagrams(Nov/Dec 2014)
8. A transmission line has a span of 275m between level supports. The
conductor has an effective diameter of 1.96 cm and weighs 0.865 kg/m. its ultimate
strength is 8060 kg. if the conductor has ice coating of radial thickness 1.27 cm
and is subjected to a wind pressure of 39kg/m2 of projected area. Calculate the
maximum sag. Assume that the safety factor is 2 and ice weighs 910 kg/m 3.
(Nov/Dec2014)
9. What is a Sag-Template? Explain how this is useful for location of towers
and stringing of power conductors? (Nov/Dec2014)
10. Discuss the design of primary distribution system with respect to following:
(April/May 2011)
i. Selection of voltage
ii. Choice of scheme
iii. Size of feeders
11. Write short note on: (APR/MAY 2015)
(i)Sub mains

(ii) Stepped and tapered mains

(iii)Grounding grids(16)

12. Explain the following: (APR/MAY 2015)

(i) Neutral grounding

(ii) Resistance grounding(16)

13. Assuming that the shape of an overhead line can be approximated by a

parabola deduce expression for calculating sag,and conductor length.How can the
effect of wind and ice loadings be taken into account(16) (Nov/Dec 2015)
14. Describe any four methods of power system grounding(16) (Nov/Dec 2015)
15. An overhead line has a span of 336m. The line is supported at a water
crossing from two towers whose heights are 33.6 m and 29 m above water level. The
weight of the conductor is 8.33 N/m and tension in the conductor is not to exceed
3.34x104 N. Find (i) clearance between the lowest point on the conductor and water
(ii) horizontal distance of this point from the lower support. (Nov/Dec 2010)

16. An overhead line has a span of 160m of stranded copper conductor between
level supports. The sag is 3.96 m at —5.50 C with 9.53 mm thick in ice coating and
wind pressure of 40 Kgf/m2 of projected area. Calculate the temperature at which
the sag will remain the same under conditions of no ice and no wind. The
particulars of the conductor are as follows: 
Size of conductor 7/3.45 mm, Area of cross section 64.5 mm2 weight of  conductor
0.594 Kgf/m, Modulus of elasticity 12700 Kgf/mm2, Coeficient Qf linear expansion
1.7 x 10-510 C, Assume 1 ms of ice to weight 913.5 Kgf. (May/June2014)

17. Derive the expression for sag of a line supported between two supports of the
same height (Nov/Dec 2012)
18. Explain the principle of operation of compensators used for voltage control.
(Nov/Dec 2011)
19. Derive an expression for sag calculation in a line. (Apr/May 2011)
20. (a) A transmission line has a span of 275m between level supports. The
conductor has an effective diameter of 1.96cm and weighs 0.865kg/m.If the
conductor has ice coating of radial thickness 1.27 cm and is subjected to a wind
pressure of 3.9gm/sq.cm of projected area.The ultimate strength of the conductor is
8060 kg.Calculate the sag if the factor safety is 2 and weight of 1 c.c of ice is
0.91gm. (APR/MAY 2016)
(OR)
(b) Explain the methods of neutral grounding.(16) (APR/MAY 2016)
21. (a) An OHL at a river crossing is supported from two towers of heights 30m
and 90m above water level with the span of 300m. The weight of the conductor is 1
kg/m and the working tension is 2000kg.Determine the clearance between the
conductor and the water level midway between the towers. (16) (Nov/Dec 2016)
(OR)
(b) Explain the methods of neutral grounding.(16) (Nov/Dec 2016)
22. i) Prove that a transmission line conductor between two supports at equal
heights takes the form of a catenary.(7) (NOV/DEC 2017)
23. ii) What is a sag-template? Explain how this is useful for location of towers
and stringing of power conductors.(6) (NOV/DEC 2017)
24. Describe about the various methods of neutral grounding in detail.(13)
(NOV/DEC 2017)
25. Describe the different types of substation layouts and list few advantages of
GIS. (APR/MAY 2017)
26. Explain the key points to be considered for tower spotting. Also list the basic
types of tower based on circuits used. (APR/MAY 2017)