What is OPGW? What is OPGW used for?

What is opgw? OPGW means optical fiber composite overhead ground wire. It is a line made of transmission lines. This line can achieve the purpose of grounding and communication at the same time. The OPGW line consists of a tubular structure containing one or more optical cables, and the outer shell is made of steel and aluminum. The optical fiber composite overhead ground wire is installed at the top of the ultra-high voltage tower. Its conductive part provides the function of grounding and acts as a protective barrier against lightning strikes. The optical cable inside provides the function of high-speed data transmission. Its data transmission can be used for the protection and control of the power system itself, or for the transmission of voice and data. Or it can be rented to telecommunications operators as a backbone.

Characteristic of Optical Fiber Composite Overhead Ground Wire OPGW

OPGW lines contain single-mode optical fibers with low transmission loss, which are very suitable for long-distance high-speed transmission. The external properties of OPGW wire are similar to those of ACSR lines, and are used as overhead ground wires at the top of high-voltage towers. OPGW is suitable for installation on power lines of various voltage levels, and its construction and installation are relatively simple. OPGW has the following advantages over underground optical cables: Lower installation costs. Underground optical cables are easily cut due to road excavation, but OPGW is less likely to have this problem. OPGW cable can withstand greater external forces and has a longer service life.

What is OPGW Used for?  

1.High-voltage transmission line

OPGW is used as a ground wire in high-voltage transmission lines such as 500kV, 220kV and 110kV, and also carries communication functions.

2.Smart grid

As a key component for building smart grid communication infrastructure, OPGW supports two-way communication. It also has functions such as real-time data exchange and smart meter reading.

In smart grids, OPGW provides strong support for remote monitoring, automatic control and data transmission of power systems.

3.Other applications

OPGW is also widely used in earthquake early warning, environmental monitoring, illegal intrusion detection and other fields. In addition, OPGW fiber can also detect parameters such as temperature, voltage and current of power lines, providing strong guarantee for the stable operation of power systems.

Summary

The unique dual function, excellent performance and simple construction method make OPGW an indispensable part of the power system.