The 5 main components of overhead power lines are:
- Conductors: These are the wires that carry electricity from one point to another. They are typically made of materials like aluminum or copper because they are good conductors of electricity.
- Insulators: These are used to support the conductors and keep them separated from the poles or towers. Insulators prevent electricity from leaking to the ground. They are usually made of ceramic or composite materials.
- Poles or Towers: These are the structures that hold up the conductors. They can be made of wood, steel, or concrete, depending on the type of power line and the area it serves. Transmission lines typically use towers, while distribution lines often use wooden poles.
- Crossarms: These are horizontal supports attached to the poles or towers. They hold the insulators and keep the conductors spaced properly to prevent them from touching each other or other objects.
- Stay Wires: These are used to provide additional support to the poles or towers, especially for taller or more heavily-loaded lines. They are usually tensioned cables that help keep the structure stable and prevent it from toppling over due to wind or other forces.
These five components work together to make sure electricity can be safely transmitted over long distances.