NS 201

All Dielectric Self Supporting

Fibre Optic Cabling for Installation
on Distribution Assets
FEBRUARY 2008
 SUMMARY
Network Standard NS 201 is EnergyAustralia’s specification for the design and installation of
Aerial All Dielectric Self Supporting Fibre Optic Networks.

ISSUE
EnergyAustralia staff: This Standard is for issue to all staff involved with the design and construction
of underground sub-transmission lines forming part of EnergyAustralia’s network, and for general
reference by field, technical and engineering staff.

Where this standard is issued as a controlled document replacing an earlier edition; remove and
destroy the superseded document.

All other persons involved with construction work in substations, including Accredited Service
Providers and Contractors: This document is issued on an uncontrolled basis. Users are responsible
for ensuring that the document they are using is current and includes any amendments issued since
the date on the document.

EnergyAustralia maintains a copy of this and other Network Standards together with updates and
amendments on www.energy.com.au.
EnergyAustralia also offers a subscription service which provides for updates and amendments to
standards on payment of an annual fee.

DISCLAIMER
As EnergyAustralia’s standards are subject to ongoing review, the information contained in this
document may be amended by EnergyAustralia at any time.
It is possible that conflict may exist between standard documents. In this event, the most recent
standard is to prevail.
This document has been developed using information available from field and other sources and is
suitable for most situations encountered in EnergyAustralia. Particular conditions, projects or localities
may require special or different practices. It is the responsibility of the local manager, supervisor,
assured quality contractor and the individuals involved to ensure that a safe system of work is
employed and that statutory requirements are met.
EnergyAustralia disclaims any and all liability to any person or persons for any procedure, process or
any other thing done or not done, as a result of this Network Standard.

INTERPRETATION
In the event that the user of this document is uncertain about any information or provision herein, the
user should contact EnergyAustralia for clarification. EnergyAustralia’s interpretation shall then apply
as though it was included in the Standard, and is final and binding.
 Network Standard
NS 201
All Dielectric Self Supporting Fibre Optic Cabling for Installation
on Distribution Assets
February 2008

CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................ 1
1.2 Scope ............................................................................................................... 1
1.3 References and other relevant standards........................................................ 1

2 COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................... 2

3 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS........................................................................ 2
3.1 Abbreviations ................................................................................................... 2
3.2 Definitions......................................................................................................... 3

4 REGULATORY ISSUES .............................................................................................. 4

4.1 Asbestos........................................................................................................... 4
4.2 Environment ..................................................................................................... 4
4.3 Council ............................................................................................................. 4
4.4 Roads and Traffic Authority.............................................................................. 4
4.5 Other Notices ................................................................................................... 4

5 TYPICAL ENERGYAUSTRALIA POLE CONSTRUCTION.......................................... 5

6 EXCLUSIONS.............................................................................................................. 5
7 POLE CLASSIFICATIONS........................................................................................... 6
7.1 Normal Shared Use Poles................................................................................ 6
7.2 Special Shared Use Poles ............................................................................... 6
7.3 Defective and Condemned Poles .................................................................... 7

8 MINIMUM CLEARANCES............................................................................................ 7
8.1 ADSS Minimum Clearances from Aerial Fixed Attachments ........................... 7
8.2 ADSS Minimum Clearances from Ground ....................................................... 8

9 ADSS MATERIALS SELECTION................................................................................. 9

9.1 Cable Selection ................................................................................................ 9
9.2 Fibre Optic Cable Markings.............................................................................. 9
9.3 ADSS Splice Enclosures.................................................................................. 9
9.4 Pit Construction.............................................................................................. 10
9.5 UGOH Construction ....................................................................................... 10
9.6 ADSS Fitting Selection................................................................................... 11
9.7 ADSS Pole Attachments ................................................................................ 14
9.8 Cable Coils ..................................................................................................... 15
9.9 Vibration Dampers ......................................................................................... 16
9.10 Cable Downleads ........................................................................................... 17
9.11 Abrasion Protection........................................................................................ 17
9.12 Cross Arms..................................................................................................... 17
9.13 Concrete and Steel Poles .............................................................................. 18
9.14 Fibre Optic Warning Notice ............................................................................ 20

10 CABLE CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES................................................................... 21

10.1 Cable Stringing Sheaves................................................................................ 21
 10.2 Route Survey ................................................................................................. 21
10.3 Pole Preparation ............................................................................................ 21
10.4 Cable Stringing Techniques ........................................................................... 21
10.5 Sag and Tension ............................................................................................ 22
10.6 Relocating Assets .......................................................................................... 22
10.7 Cable Care ..................................................................................................... 22
10.8 Make Ready Work.......................................................................................... 22
10.9 Types of Make Ready Work........................................................................... 23

11 RECORDING OF NETWORK ASSETS..................................................................... 24

11.1 Recording Of Other Organisations’ Installations............................................ 24
 1 February 2008

1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose
This document provides an overview of the minimum requirements that are to be used when
constructing an All Dielectric Self Supporting (ADSS) circular fibre optic cabling system
attached to EnergyAustralia assets.
An optical cable network must provide a very high service level for continuity of both internal
control networks and other services. Installation must be carried out by experienced
personnel in a professional manner in order to minimize the risk of subsequent failure.

1.2 Scope
The intent of this document is to provide a general guide to the technical issues that must be
addressed in the design and construction of an ADSS communications network on
EnergyAustralia assets. It is neither practical nor possible to cover every issue that may arise
during a network rollout. In the event that clarification is required the reader must contact the
Manager, Engineering Standards and Research.

1.3 References and other relevant standards

EnergyAustralia, Environmental Handbook for Construction and
NUS 174
Maintenance
NUS 100 Field Recording of Network Assets

NEG TC01 All Dielectric Self Supporting (ADSS) Cable on Poles - Design Guidelines
Planning and Design Standards for Electrical Network Communications
NS 203
Assets
NS 204 Communications Pits – Specifications and Installation Guidelines
Guidelines for design and maintenance of overhead distribution and
ENA C(b)1
transmission lines
ENA NENS National guidelines for safe approach distances to electrical and
04-2006 mechanical apparatus

NS 201
February 2008 2

2 Compliance Requirements
Design and construction shall:

• comply with all relevant provisions of applicable legislation, regulations and industry
codes of practice including any relevant Codes;
• comply with any other Australian Standards at the time relevant to the
telecommunications industry and the electricity industry;
• comply with such other codes, procedures or standards as agreed between the Parties
from time to time; and
• comply with EnergyAustralia documents including but not limited to Network Standards,
Network Management Plan and Electrical Safety Rules as relevant and appropriate.
• be aware of and reference NEG-TC01, All Dielectric Self Supporting Cable on Poles –
Design Guidelines

3 Definitions and Abbreviations

3.1 Abbreviations
ABC Aerial Bundled Cable
ADSS All Dielectric Self Supporting cable
AS Australian Standards
CMEN Common Multiple Earth Neutral
EA EnergyAustralia
EPR Earth Potential Rise
ES Electrical Standard
GIS Geographic Information System
HFC Hybrid Fibre Coaxial cable network
HV High Voltage
IM Integral Messenger
kN kilo Newton
kV kilo Volt
LFI Low Frequency Induction
LV Low Voltage
NS Network Standard
OH&S Occupational Health and Safety
PE Photo Electric (Cell)
PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network
UGOH Underground to Overhead transition structure
XLPE Cross-linked polyethylene

NS 201
 3 February 2008

3.2 Definitions
ADSS All Dielectric Self Supporting fibre optic cable which is
nonconductive, self supporting and is capable of being
erected under tension between supports. It does not
require a separate catenary.
Catenary A separately constructed strength member attached to a
pole to which communications equipment and cable may
be attached. This also includes that part of an integral
bearer cable which is used to support wires and cables
which are enclosed in a cover or sheath.
Down Traffic Side The side of the pole on the far side of the on-coming traffic
(of a pole) (with pole and on-coming traffic on same side of road).
Earth Potential Rise The potential with respect to remote earth potential to
which a location rises due to the flow of current in the
earth.
High Voltage High voltage is normally more than 1,000 volts AC or 1500
volts DC
Hybrid Fibre Copper Telco network cable consisting of copper co-axial and
fibre optics.
Low Voltage Low voltage is normally more than 50 volts AC or 120
volts ripple free DC but is not more than 1,000 volts AC or
1500 volts DC.
Low Frequency Induction The generation of induced voltages in conductors
inductively coupled to a power line due to 50 Hz currents
flowing in the power line and using the earth as a return
path.

Make Ready Work The work which is required to be carried out prior to or at
the time when equipment is being attached to a pole in
order to ensure compliance with the requirements of this
document or the requirements of other relevant
authorities.
Normal Shared Use Shared use of a pole under conditions which comply with
this document and do not unduly stress the pole. This
does not include poles which are specifically listed as
Special Shared Use poles.
Pole Pole owned by EnergyAustralia.
Project Manager The person managing the design and construction of the
relevant ADSS project.
Special Shared Use Shared use of poles of a type specified by
EnergyAustralia and as defined in this document.

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February 2008 4

4 Regulatory Issues

All work carried out on EnergyAustralia’s network and/or its poles must be in accordance with
EnergyAustralia’s Electrical Safety Rules.
Design and construction must comply with all relevant provisions of applicable legislation,
regulations and industry codes of practice as well as any relevant Australian and International
Standards, as detailed in Standards Clause and Occupational Health and Safety Clause of
the Design and Deployment Agreement.

4.1 Asbestos
All materials and equipment used for construction of EnergyAustralia’s assets are to be free
from asbestos and / or asbestos related products. Suppliers are expected to comply with the
Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 (NSW) together with the Occupational Health and
Safety Regulation 2001 (NSW) and confirm in writing that all products supplied to
EnergyAustralia contain no asbestos related materials.

4.2 Environment
ADSS project plans shall consider the environmental impacts of the proposed installation and
satisfy the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. An
Environmental Impact Assessment may be required before works can commence. Refer to
NUS 174 – Environmental Procedures, for further information regarding environmental
issues. Alternatively, contact EnergyAustralia.

4.3 Council
Relevant local councils must be informed, in writing, with a minimum of 40 days notice, of any
EnergyAustralia plans to construct aerial communications infrastructure. Councils must be
asked to advise if special zoning or consent requirements apply to the proposed works in the
relevant area.

4.4 Roads and Traffic Authority

The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) must be informed of any works that may cause
interruption on an RTA controlled road, and the appropriate permits must be obtained prior to
the commencement of works.

4.5 Other Notices

Some projects may require prior consultation and notices with other authorities including: Rail
Infrastructure Corporation, Australian Rail Track Corporation and TransGrid.

NS 201
 5 February 2008

5 Typical EnergyAustralia Pole Construction

The majority of the EnergyAustralia poles are desapped or treated hardwood poles with some
poles being of a spun concrete construction with internal metal strength members.
In addition to the power network assets, the poles are also used for supporting a number of
other types of equipment such as public street lighting, special lighting, supporting road and
street signs and traffic signal equipment. There may also be other private and public
communications networks which can utilise both copper and optic fibre based cables. In
addition there are a number of HFC networks which involve stranded cable, fibre optic cable,
co-axial cable and network components. Some poles support mobile phone transmitter units,
which emit high frequency electromagnetic radiation and may require disconnection prior to
1
working on the pole . Refer to the owner of the installation using the 24-hour number
attached to the equipment.

6 Exclusions

This Network Standard describes the requirement for the aerial communications systems
deployed with cable that is circular in cross-section and entirely non-conductive (all-
dielectric). Excluded are cabling systems that contain conductive cable components such as
metallic armouring, integral bearer wires or metallic catenary supports.
This Network Standard does not describe the requirements for ADSS to be installed in areas
of extreme pollution. ADSS must not be installed without prior consultation with
EnergyAustralia in areas where there is a perceived risk that extreme pollution may cause the
outer sheath of the cable to become conductive and be subject to electrical tracking or other
electric field effects.
Some specific pole types will require modifications to the normal attachment to the pole to
facilitate safe access and operation of the power system equipment such as air break
switches, pole mounted transformers.
Service poles should not be used for main communications lines.

1
Refer to NS 102, Working on Poles with Mobile Phone Transmitter Installations

NS 201
February 2008 6

7 Pole Classifications

Not all poles within the area serviced by EnergyAustralia are owned by EnergyAustralia2. The
Project Manager is responsible for confirming the ownership of any pole. Plans from
EnergyAustralia’s GIS may provide an indication of those poles owned by EnergyAustralia.
Poles proposed to be used for the construction of the communication network can be
classified as being one of three types, i.e.

• Normal Shared Use

• Special Shared Use
• Defective and Condemned poles.
During the route planning and design process the classification for each pole along the
desired route (i.e. Normal, Special or Condemned) shall be determined.

7.1 Normal Shared Use Poles

Normal Shared Use poles are those where the conditions of this document have been met
and pole calculations have confirmed that a pole of a certain height and residual strength can
support the additional loads applied by the proposed attachments.

7.2 Special Shared Use Poles

Where a nominated pole does not meet the conditions of a Normal Shared Use pole, it will be
classed as a Special Shared pole. In the case of Special Shared Use poles all applications
will be subject to the conditions described in this document and steps shall be taken to
demonstrate that the pole will not be unduly stressed by the addition of ADSS apparatus.
A pole is a Special Shared Use pole if it is of uncertain condition or in an unbalanced or highly
loaded condition. The following would also be considered as Special Shared Use Poles:

• staked pole, (refer to NS 145 Pole Inspection and Treatment Procedures, a reinforced
(nailed or splinted) pole, a pole with the original foundation supplemented with a
structural support system).
• limited life pole, (refer to NS 145 Pole Inspection and Treatment Procedures, for
definition).
• stayed pole, (where a stay wire or wires are used between the pole and a support point
to adequately counter the resultant conductor tension).
• stay pole, (an additional pole providing suitable leverage to which a stay wire is
attached to counter conductor tension).
• steel pole supporting overhead mains
• steel street lighting column
• pole supporting electrolysis drainage cables or associated equipment
• pole supporting public transport conductor or associated equipment
• pole on which a strained configuration is employed (Tension Structure)
The installation of ADSS fittings on Special Shared use poles may require the relocation of
existing plant, or the construction of additional overhead infrastructure, such as a cross arm
or stand-off bracket.
It is recommended to avoid locating ADSS terminations on Special Shared Use poles.

2
Common-Use Pole. Refer to NS 145. A pole belonging to another public utility or authority, on which
EnergyAustralia’s wires are attached. The pole is mainly used to carry conductors belonging to the owner of the pole.

NS 201
 7 February 2008

7.3 Defective and Condemned Poles

From NS-145, “Pole Inspection and Treatment Procedures”, August 2006:
Defective / condemned poles can be identified in the following manner:

• Defective Poles – A single 75mm wide highly visible orange band secured around the
pole at least 2.4m above ground but below 3m, encircling the whole pole, marked with
Black “X X X”s
• Condemned Poles – A single orange band as above, plus a permanently marked “X”
painted 1.8 m above ground on opposite sides of the pole with slashes ‘/’ ‘\’ at least
500 mm long, using white paint.
Condemned poles must be removed from service or stabilised without undue delay. If you
find a pole you consider to be dangerous, you must report it immediately to the
EnergyAustralia Supervisor/Contract Officer/Customer Service Office to ensure appropriate
action is taken.
In the case of a condemned pole the Project Manager shall organise that the pole be
replaced as part of the Make Ready Work program prior to installation of any further
infrastructure.

8 Minimum Clearances

8.1 ADSS Minimum Clearances from Aerial Fixed Attachments

The EA Electrical Safety Rules sets out the minimum safe working distances from live
exposed conductors. In all cases the latest revision of the Electrical Safety Rules must be
observed.
The table below shows the minimum clearances of the aerial cabling system from other
overhead plant at the closest point in the span, with conductors at maximum sag:

ADSS below the conductors up to and Minimum clearance at

including 33kV maximum sag
Below conductors lowest point at max sag for
300 mm
cables attached to the same poles
Below conductors lowest point at max sag for
500 mm
cables attached to separate poles
Above conductors at minimum sag 200 mm

Notes:

1. For voltages 66kV and above, the cable manufacturer shall be asked to advise as to the
cable placement, which minimises electric field effects, based upon the overhead
electricity construction. The cable manufacturer may suggest the use of an anti-tracking
cable sheath and/or corona coils.
In considering the point of attachment for ADSS cables, the designer, Project Manager and
installer shall consider:

• Electrical Safety Rules

• The minimum clearances 8.1 and 8.2 of this Network Standard.
• Aim to maximize above ground clearance
• The visual amenity of the installation.
• Risk of damage to the ADSS cable during tree trimming.

NS 201
February 2008 8

• Access requirements for future repairs and maintenance of the ADSS cable and other
aerial plant.
• The mid-span clearance of the cable considering the sag of ADSS and overhead
conductors
Please also refer to NEG TC 01, ADSS Cables on Poles – Design Guidelines.

8.2 ADSS Minimum Clearances from Ground

Network Location Minimum Clearance from
Ground (mm)

Over any part of a carriageway of a primary 6500

road

Over land, other than the carriageway of a road, 6500

which is traversable by road vehicles on land (see note 2)
zoned industrial
Over any part of a carriageway of a road 6500

Over land, other than the carriageway of a road, 6000

which is traversable by road vehicles or
agricultural machinery
Over a residential driveway and any other part 5500
of a footpath

Over land which is not or should not be 5000

traversed by road vehicles or agricultural
machinery
Over deep water (> 2m depth) allowing sailing 15,000
craft* (see note 3)
above MHW
Over shallow water (<= 2 m deep) not allowing 8,000 (see note 3)
sailing craft* above MHW

Notes:
1. Some local councils and private land-holders impose minimum clearances different from
those in the above table. The Project Manager shall confirm with the relevant authorities
whether different clearances are required.
2. Over land in industrial areas, in particular driveways where LV cables exist, the ADSS
can be installed below 6500mm PROVIDED the ADSS cables are located a minimum of
125mm higher than the LV cable.
3. *The NSW Maritime Crossing Guide must be referred to for ADSS installations with
water crossings. The installer must adhere to any clearance implied or mandated by this
Guide. The Manager – Engineering Standards and Research can advise
EnergyAustralia’s nominated expert for this document. Note that alterations may be
required to existing signage should there be any change to safety clearance.

NS 201
 9 February 2008

9 ADSS Materials Selection

9.1 Cable Selection

The cable must have an UV stabilised black outer sheath.
The cable shall be selected to match the environmental conditions and maximum span over
which it will be deployed.
Environmental impacts shall be considered in the cable evaluation. Preference should be
given to designs with cables of a smaller minimum bending radius and outer diameter.
Where the cable is to be installed in an area known to be subject to attacks from birds,
rodents or insects, an appropriate armouring shall be selected.
Where the cable is to be installed on infrastructure carrying voltages above 33kV, the cable
manufacturer shall be provided with drawings of the overhead construction and asked if an
anti-tracking sheath is recommended for the proposed installation.

9.2 Fibre Optic Cable Markings

The ADSS cable sheath shall be marked as follows:
ENERGYAUSTRALIA FIBRECOUNT FIBRETYPE CABLE DESIGN CABLE TYPE METRE
MARK (a vertical line) BATCH NUMBER TICKET NUMBER MONTH/YEAR EA FIBRE
OPTIC CABLE EA FIBRE OPTIC CABLE
Note that “EA FIBRE OPTIC CABLE” shall be repeated continuously along the sheath until
the next metre mark.

An example cable marking is shown below:

9.3 ADSS Splice Enclosures

Splice enclosures must accommodate a minimum of four cable entries.
Splice enclosures may either be installed in a pit or mounted on a pole. Pit installed splice
enclosures are recommended for areas of particular environmental sensitivity.
Visual amenity must be considered when selecting pole-mounted splice enclosures.
All pole-mounted splice enclosures shall be UV stabilised.
An IP 68 rating is the minimum rating for all outdoor ADSS splice enclosures.
Splice enclosures using a grommet and gland cable sealing system, rather than tape
wrapping of the cable is the preferred type. One splice enclosure which meets all the
EnergyAustralia requirements, at the time of writing this document is the Fibreguard 600
enclosure supplied by Preformed Line Products Australia.

NS 201
February 2008 10

Tape Wrapped Sealing Grommet/Gland Sealing

Tape Wrapped Sealing Grommet and Gland Sealing

9.4 Pit Construction

Refer to NS 204 “Communications Pits – Specifications and Installation Guidelines” for
more detailed requirements on the specification and installation of pits.

9.5 UGOH Construction

Refer to EnergyAustralia Network Standard NS127 which details maximum number of
UGOH’s on a pole (including telco UGOHs), placement, mechanical protection, etc.
Mechanical protection (i.e. top hat) shall be used at the base of the pole and also in any other
areas on the pole where the ADSS cable is exposed to damage from physical impact. If
practical, the downlead cable shall be mechanically protected. This mechanical protection
below the overhead mains is to prevent damage by pole platforms and ladders.
Care shall be taken to ensure that the items attached to a pole cannot be used as a means of
climbing the pole.
ADSS cable may be run underground provided that it is duct installed (as opposed to direct
buried), the maximum pulling tension of the cable is not exceeded, the cable used includes a
water blocking compound and the cable is termite resistant.
UGOHs may be required for underground sections of ADSS cabling, or where a coil or splice
enclosure is to be pit installed.
The conduit elbow used to bring the duct up the pole must have a greater radius than the
minimum bend radius of the cable under load.
An UGOH construction is illustrated below.

NS 201
 11 February 2008

ADSS UGOH Construction

(See NS204 Communication Pits for Communication Assets for detail)

9.6 ADSS Fitting Selection

ADSS Fittings for each pole shall be selected to match the line deviation over the span.
Fittings must be designed for the span length over which they will be used. Note that fitting
designs typically change for ranges up to 200m, 350m and 600m.
The ADSS Hanger and Double-Yoke Hanger fittings are pictured below. Standard fittings are
used for spans up to 200m. Structural Rods are added to standard fittings for spans greater
than 200m and less than 350m. Long-span fittings are required for spans between 350m and
600m.
The ADSS Hanger is the standard ADSS fitting for short-span (< 200m) installations. This
fitting is preferred as, when used, the ADSS cable can be unhooked from the pole easily, and
temporality relocated to an alternative position, to facilitate access to overhead plant.

NS 201
February 2008 12

Structural Rods added

for 200m < Spans
<350m

ADSS Hanger – Line Deviation 30 Degrees Max

ADSS Double Yoke Fitting – Line Deviation 60 Degrees Max

The ADSS Support (pictured below) may be used in place of an ADSS Hanger for short span
installations; however the Hanger is the preferred fitting. With the cushions removed, the
support can be used in place of a stringing sheave, to facilitate cable installation.

NS 201
 13 February 2008

ADSS Support – Line Deviation 30 Degrees Max

ADSS Double Termination Fitting – Line Deviation greater than 60 Degrees

ADSS Hanger Fitting – Line Deviation Max 30 Degrees, 350m < Span < 600m

NS 201
February 2008 14

ADSS Double Yoke Hanger Fitting – Line Deviation Max 60 Degrees, 350m < Span < 600m

ADSS Double Termination Fitting – Line Deviation greater than 60 Degrees, 350m
< Span < 600m
The shackles, chain and other fittings used for the long-span terminations must be rated at
70kiloNewton. Long-span terminations must use tongue bolts, rather than hook-bolts.
Structural rods used for long-span fittings are longer than those used for shorter spans.

9.7 ADSS Pole Attachments

For wooden pole installations, with a span of less 200m, the ADSS pole attachment may
consist of a single coach screw with a hooked end. The coach screw must be of a length and
diameter recommended by the fitting manufacturer as appropriate for short-span ADSS
installation.
3
Coach screws must be inserted into the pole using an approved method .

• All steelwork, including bolts passing through timber, shall be hot dipped galvanised to
AS-1650 (Hot dipped galvanising on ferrous articles) and/or as appropriate AS-1214
(Hot dipped galvanised coatings on threaded fasteners )
• All galvanised bolts shall be coated before installation on their threaded section with
a KOPR-KOTE anti-seize lubricant, stockcode H19942.
After tightening nuts on their bolt, the thread immediately behind the nut must be burred to
prevent loosening.
Readers are advised to make themselves aware of the specific OH&S requirements when
working on CCA (treated) poles.
The preferred location for pole-mounted ADSS Splice Enclosures is the down-traffic side of
the pole. However, the location shall be selected with consideration given to the visual

3
Extract from Network Standard NS 122, Pole Mounted Substation Construction

NS 201
 15 February 2008

amenity of the installation, future access by means of a ladder or otherwise and current or
planned additions to the pole.

9.8 Cable Coils

A coil of minimum 40m length must be installed with each splice enclosure. To facilitate
repairs, relocations and future break-outs, a minimum 40m folded figure 8 coil must also be
installed at least every 500 metres in urban areas and every 1000 metres in rural areas for
each ADSS installation. This includes the coils co-located with splice enclosures. When
planning coil locations, it is recommended to consider the areas most likely to be subject to
cable damage such as road crossings. Coil installation requires a double termination fitting.
Coils can be conveniently located where a double termination fitting is otherwise required.

Overhead Fibre Optic Coil Storage

NOTES

• Coils may be either pit installed or mounted on a loop bracket

• The minimum distance above ground for the bottom of the coil is 4000 mm. The
4
maximum height is to suit retrieval by unqualified staff and to suit the available ladders
• Coil brackets for ADSS loop storage shall conform to the minimum no-load bend radius
of the cable. The bracket manufacturer should be informed of the specification of the
selected cable.

4
As defined in the EA Electrical Safety Rules (table 5.1).

NS 201
February 2008 16

• The coil bracket shall be mounted below the splice enclosure, with approximately 90
degrees rotation between the two fixtures.
• The coil must be suitably secured to the bracket with cable ties and the bottom of the
coil must be secured to avoid swinging in the wind.

Location of Fibre Optic and Splice Enclosure

The bottom of the coil stored on the bracket shall have a minimum 4000mm clearance from
the ground.

ADSS Coil Bracket

9.9 Vibration Dampers

Vibration dampers are not required for spans less than 75m. A minimum of two vibration
dampers should be installed for each span over 75m, where the span is not sufficiently
shielded from Aeolian vibration by trees, buildings or other structures.
For spans greater than 200m, more than two vibration dampeners may be required per span.

NS 201
 17 February 2008

9.10 Cable Downleads

Cable attached to the pole shall be secured in place with down-lead cushions
Care should be taken when tightening downlead cushions. Over-tightening cushions can lead
to cable damage.
A minimum of 2 downlead cushions must be used on each pole requiring a downlead.

9.11 Abrasion Protection

The cable shall be protected from abrasion. Abrasion protection is required from poles at
dead ends and in locations where the ADSS may rub against installed plant eg. at stay cables

9.12 Cross Arms

Cross arm design – Dielectric Support

Cross arms may be required in order to maintain the necessary clearance from other
structures. Applicable designs are shown below:

Note that the fitting may also be attached below the cross-arm.

NS 201
February 2008 18

Cross arm design – Suspension Hanger

9.13 Concrete and Steel Poles

Stainless steel bands shall be used to fix ADSS fittings to steel and concrete poles. Bands
must be of a specification recommended by the ADSS fitting manufacturer, as appropriate for
the installed fitting. The minimum width for stainless steel bands is 12mm.
Note: Engineering Standards and Research are currently investigating a method of
isolating the stainless steel bands from the galvanised pole in order to overcome
galvanic action and ‘rust’ stains.
5
Confirm the current status of this investigation prior to undertaking any work on steel poles .

5 One solution that would be satisfactory is to fabricate a gasket of 1 or 2mm thick, black “Neoprene”
(polychloroprene ) for fitting between the stainless steel band and the pole.

NS 201
 19 February 2008

ADSS Fittings, Concrete and Steel Poles

NS 201
February 2008 20

9.14 Fibre Optic Warning Notice

A fibre optic warning notice must be installed wherever fibre cable enters a fibre optic splice
enclosure, or wherever a fibre cable enters and exits a pit.
Refer to NS 204 “Communications Pits – Specifications and Installation Guidelines” for
more detailed requirements on specifying and installing pits.

NS 201
 21 February 2008

10 Cable construction Guidelines

10.1 Cable Stringing Sheaves

Single wheel stringing sheaves are recommended to assist with cable stringing. Stringing
sheaves shall be selected as to match the minimum full-load bend radius of the cable. The
diameter of the stringing sheave shall be measured from the bottom groove of the device, not
the outer flanges. Unlined rollers are recommended for ADSS cables. Stringing sheaves shall
be inspected to ensure they are free from burrs and other defects, prior to use.
On bends of approximately 90 degrees, stringing sheaves shall be installed such that they will
remain parallel to the ground during installation.
The dielectric ADSS support, with the cushion inserts removed, can be used in place of a
stringing sheave for straight sections.

10.2 Route Survey

A route survey should be conducted, to determine the appropriate cable route, type and
number of required fittings, necessary make-ready-work, required stringing sheaves and
cable installation technique. Road crossings and busy intersections shall be avoided.
Refer to Mains Overhead NEG OH04 for design guidance for the route

10.3 Pole Preparation

All poles should be dressed with the necessary fittings before stringing takes place.

10.4 Cable Stringing Techniques

The Project Manger shall decide the most appropriate installation technique and drum
locations subsequent to the Route Survey. The Project Manger shall consider planned splice
locations when deciding the best site to situate cable drums.
Care must be taken to avoid contact between the ADSS network under construction and
EnergyAustralia’s power networks (for example. there is a possibility of contact between
ADSS preformed fittings and bare LV or HV conductors during the installation of ADSS
terminations).
Where possible, it is recommended that ADSS preformed termination rods are installed on
the ground, prior to attaching them to poles. The Project Manager shall determine if automatic
reclose facilities are being used on power lines where the ADSS is being constructed. If so,

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the Project Manager should consider requesting that this facility be suspended during the
construction phase.
The Project Manager shall request standard installation instructions and manuals, for the
cable and fittings used from the suppliers.

10.5 Sag and Tension

The installation tension and sag tension is dependent upon cable properties, environmental
conditions and the line angle between consecutive structures. The cable manufacturer will
provide sag tension tables for the cable appropriate to different installation situations. These
tables shall be used to determine acceptable sag and tension prior to, during and after
installation.
Some installations will require a cable to be strung at a higher tension than normal, in order to
meet clearance requirements. For these installations, the cable manufacturer must be
advised of the desired sag, so that a cable can be specially designed to meet the
requirements.
The specified short and long term tension limits must not be exceeded at any time.
It is important to remember that the mass and coefficient of expansion for ADSS cable is
different from other cables. Therefore the preferred sag profile of the ADSS cable must match
the profile of existing overhead cabling during common temperature conditions.
When cable is being installed close to existing overhead cabling, the Project Manager shall
take care to avoid clashing between cables under windy conditions.
The installation of ADSS cable increases the load on a pole. The Project Manager shall
consider the effects of additional loading on the pole, caused by the installation of ADSS
cable. Where necessary, the Project Manager shall arrange to carry out pole and wind
loading calculations, in accordance with ESAA Guidelines for the Construction and
Maintenance of Overhead Distribution and Transmission Lines C(b)1. reference NEG TL03
The cable must be tensioned at each dead-end termination. The cable shall not be cut at the
reel until all tensioning is complete.
An ADSS lashing rod used in the ADSS dead-end termination and attached to a tensioning
device can be used to tension the cable.

10.6 Relocating Assets

Any holes resulting from the removal or adjustment of overhead apparatus shall be securely
plugged, by an approved method such as inserting 14mm Preschem rods into the hole and
then plugging it at either end with CCA-treated timber plugs.

10.7 Cable Care

The number of cable splices shall be minimised. The cable must not be cut at every ADSS
termination pole.
Cut ADSS cable shall be capped with a mastic-lined heat-shrink end-cap. If a cable has not
been capped in such a weatherproof fashion, 1m of cable shall be removed before the cable
is spliced.

10.8 Make Ready Work

This involves the movement or replacement of power network assets to ensure that this
communications network can comply with the minimum clearance requirements.
The Project Manager should consider whether Make Ready Work can be avoided by
optimising the route for the ADSS cabling.

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10.9 Types of Make Ready Work

Typically the power related work may involve the following:

• Tree Trimming and Pruning

• Cable re-tensioning
• Replacement of open wire construction with ABC
• Street lighting conductor/circuits removal and installation of PE cell controlled lights
• Pole inspection and/or replacement
• Placing conductors (bare/insulated) in conduit, normally on poles
• Cross arm raising
• Providing neutral bonds if required
• Movement/replacement of customer service leads.

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February 2008 24

11 Recording of Network Assets

Network Standard NUS 100 - Field Recording of Network Assets and NS 104 Network
Project Design Plans, provides details of requirements which must be followed by
EnergyAustralia personnel, Accredited Service Providers and contractors to EnergyAustralia,
for recording site specific details of infrastructure and services work.
Overhead and underground infrastructure work and network additions and alterations must
be notified as completed, by the Project Manager or Supervisor.
As-built alterations to design plans must be highlighted on the plans and approved by the
EnergyAustralia Network Inspector or EnergyAustralia Project Manager/Co-ordinator.
All completed plans and field recordings, and other documents which record network
additions and alterations, including, but not limited to:

• Installation of poles for road crossings

• Installation of mid-span poles
• Installation of pits and conduits
• pillar and pillar standard relocations or replacements with different type
• changes to services resulting from any of the above changes
• changes resulting in altered cable and conductor ratings.
must be collected, collated and checked by the Project Manager or Supervisor responsible for
the project, certified and signed as complete and returned as indicated in Network Standard
NUS 100, to reach the Geographic Information Officers for the relevant area, for updating of
EnergyAustralia’s Geographic Information System.

11.1 Recording Of Other Organisations’ Installations

Where other organisations’ installations are constructed on or in components of
EnergyAustralia’s network, or are constructed on or in sites designated for EnergyAustralia’s
network installations, those installations must be recorded in the relevant EnergyAustralia
recording systems.
Examples of other organizations’ installations which must be recorded include:

• cables in EnergyAustralia’s conduits

• other services in dedicated roadway sites
• other services in sites designated for EnergyAustralia tenure for network purposes,
such as distribution substation sites owned or leased attachments and equipment on
EnergyAustralia’s poles, (record in NAMS ‘Poles and Pillars’ and ‘Street Lighting’ where
relevant).

NS 201
 © EnergyAustralia.

This document must not be reproduced in whole or in part or

converted to machine readable form or stored in a computer or
imaging system without the written permission of EnergyAustralia.

Revision History
Initial issue: 24/11/2006

Document Control

Authorised By: Bob Sloan Date:24/11/2006

for Manager - Major Projects & Engineering

Document Number: NS 201

UNCONTROLLED COPY