Interaction of vibration dampers with surge arresters

Line surge arresters were first used on distribution systems, with mounting configurations that gave good long-term performance on conductors strung at relatively low tension. Most transmission line surge arresters (TLSA) applied on high-tension conductors have been installed somewhere between suspension clamps and aeolian vibration dampers, often respecting electrical clearances but ignoring mechanical aspects. Undesired mechanical interactions can reduce the damper effectiveness, leading to vibration induced damage to the conductor at the arrester or insulator clamps and to the arrester fittings. Recommendations for identifying and avoiding problems are set out for some typical TLSA installation configurations. Other dynamic effects, such as galloping due to ice accretion, buffeting, and…