DAMAGE CAUSES ANALYSIS TO OVERHEAD POWER TRANSMISSION LINES IN MEDIUM-VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL NETWORKS

Abstract. The paper analyzes the possibility of solving the pressing problem of improving the reliability of power supply systems, in particular electrical networks with voltages of 6(10)-35 kV. A comparative analysis of the causes of the high failure rate of overhead power transmission lines in the Integrated Power System of Ukraine is carried out in the context of similar problems worldwide, where the main factors of damage to medium-voltage overhead lines are either worn-out equipment, technological disturbances caused by natural phenomena, or their combined effect. It has been established that prolonged interruptions in electricity supply, regulated by the Law of Ukraine “On the Electricity Market,” which governs legal and economic relations related to the generation, transmission, distribution, and purchase and sale of electricity in order to ensure its reliable and safe supply to consumers, the development of market relations, as well as the minimization of costs and negative environmental impact, lead to significant economic losses for consumers and therefore have high socio-economic significance. Statistical data obtained from the literature confirm that the reliability of electricity supply to consumers largely depends on the reliable and efficient operation of overhead lines. It has been proven that the breakage of overhead lines with voltages of 6(10)-35 kV due to numerous natural phenomena, especially in isolated-neutral networks, causes single-phase-to-ground faults, which have an extremely negative impact on the environment and are extremely dangerous for people and animals in the vicinity.