As conductor temperatures increase, conductors expand and sag, reducing clearances between the line and the ground, vegetation, buildings, and other infrastructure. In some cases, higher operating temperatures can also reduce line capacity and limit operational flexibility.
Understanding these physical changes is becoming increasingly important as utilities seek to maintain safe and reliable network performance during periods of high demand and extreme weather.
Understanding Network Behaviour During Extreme Heat
Accurate network data and engineering analysis play a critical role in helping utilities understand how their assets will perform under changing environmental conditions.
Modern surveying and modelling techniques enable utilities to develop a detailed understanding of network behaviour, supporting informed operational and asset management decisions.
At NM Group, we support utilities through a range of services designed to improve visibility of network conditions and infrastructure performance, including:
- LiDAR surveying to capture accurate asset, terrain, and clearance data
- 3D network modelling to provide engineering-ready representations of overhead line infrastructure
- Thermal and temperature analysis to assess network performance under varying operating conditions
- Detailed engineering studies to support resilience planning and risk assessment
From Data to Action
Detailed network modelling allows utilities to assess conductor clearances, understand thermal behaviour, identify potential risk areas, and evaluate the impact of extreme weather on network performance.
By combining high-quality survey data with engineering analysis, utilities can better understand infrastructure limitations, support safe operation during periods of elevated temperatures, and improve long-term resilience planning.
As heatwaves become more frequent and intense in many regions, proactive analysis and data-driven decision-making will continue to play an important role in helping network operators maintain reliability and prepare for future challenges.
To learn more about NM Group’s LiDAR surveying, network modelling, and engineering services, please contact our team at sales@nmgroup.com.