A Feasibility Study on the Use of Concrete Pole Bases as a Grounding Topology for Distribution Systems

Abstract

This paper presents a study of the behavior of concrete pole bases under lightning currents and their application as a grounding topology for overhead power distribution lines. For this purpose, electromagnetic and thermal analyzes were performed from measurements, analytical calculations and numerical simulations. Comparisons are presented with results corresponding to typical configurations of grounding topologies practiced by power utilities. The research results point to the fact that in some situations the use of the reinforced concrete pole bases is shown to be a viable and economical alternative to be applied in power distribution grounding systems.