Optical Groundwire and Fittings

Types and Uses

General:

The Optical Groundwire (OPGW) and fittings shall comply in all respects with the
requirements as set out in this Specification and otherwise with ASTM B415 and B416, ITU-
T (CCITT) G651 and G654, IEC 793-1 and 794-1 or such other Standard as may be provided.

Optical Groundwire (OPGW) :

The Optical Groundwire shall be 16 fibres with two layers of aluminium clad steel
wires or aluminium alloy wires around the optical core. The characteristics of the OPGW
shall provide the necessary protection of the transmission line and communication links to the
remote end substations.

Outdoor Joint Boxes :

Two types of joint boxes shall be provided.

Type 1- Joint boxes on overhead line used to connect two or more sections at OPGW
anchored on a tower or portal structure about 5m above ground level. An extra fibre length
(approx 1.5m) will be left inside to enable splice re-make if necessary in the future.

Type 2 -Terminal boxes on overhead line used to connect OPGW to FOC’s. They are also
required to provide cross patching facilities within the box for a link configuration.

Approach Cable (FOC) :

An approach cable is defined as that cable installed between the final joint box,
forming the termination of the OPGW of a particular optical link, and the termination box
installed within the telecommunication room in the substation building.

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Indoor Termination Boxes :

Termination boxes shall be wall mounted in telecommunication room, adjacent to

the terminal equipment with which the optical link is associated; the precise location shall
be agreed with the Owner/Engineer.

A termination box shall be provided for each optical link and shall accommodate the
fibre splices between the approach cable and the flexible termination cable. It shall be fitted
with suitable cable clamping glands at its base for the purpose of cable entry.

The box shall be suitably dimensioned to accommodate the excess loops of optical
fibre associated with each splice. Splice cassettes or other approved methods shall be used
to provide mechanical support for the splices and to afford a means of neatly retaining the
excess fibre.

The termination box shall be of welded sheet steel construction, finished internally
and externally using a durable paint system. Access to the box shall be by means of a hinged
door or a bolted front panel. Where a hinged door is fitted, access shall be impeded by use
of bolted closures. The termination box shall be fitted with an approved identity label (e.g.
engraved laminate).

Demountable Connectors :

Demountable connectors shall be fitted to each fibre at the termination of each

optical link. The connector types will be defined during the contract design phase; the
Tenderer shall allow for the provision under the Contract of two different types of
connector, to be fitted to the link terminations as directed by the Owner/Engineer.

The connectors shall be factory assembled in strict accordance with the

manufacturer's instructions. The completed terminations shall be examined and tested at the
factory to verify compliance with the manufacturer's published performance data.
Substandard and defective terminations shall be rejected and the fibre reterminated.

Demountable connectors shall be protected against contamination and mechanical

damage during shipment and site installation of the associated cable.

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Termination Cables :

A termination cable is defined as that cable installed between the termination box at
the substation end of the approach cable and the optical termination equipment.

The termination cable shall be of flexible and rugged construction, suitable for
installation within floor voids at the substation buildings. The cable construction shall
incorporate strength member(s), fibre buffering (bedding) and a tough jacket. The fibres
shall be entirely compatible with those of the approach cable to ensure good optical and
physical fusion splicing properties.

Each termination cable shall be supplied in a preformed length, with factory fitted
demountable connectors at the free end. The type of demountable connector shall comply
with the requirements of this specification. A minimum allowance of 10 m shall be made for
the length of each termination cable.

Design :

Optical Core :

The requirements stated below relates only to the components within the optical core
itself. Optical fibres shall be protected by metalic tube. Fibre optics shall be grouped by
four or six fibres with loose buffering.

Fibre

The optical fibre shall be of a single-mode type, optimised for 1300 nm and
1550 nm wavelength. The mechanical characteristics (notably the static stress resistance)
should make it possible, given the material and manufacturing constraints to guarantee that
there is no significant risk of breaking over the planned working life time of twenty years
under the given environmental conditions. The optic fibre shall conform to ITU-T (CCITT)
Recommendations G.652 and G.654 and to all other current relevant international standards.
Tests shall be compliant with the current requirements of the relevant IEC and ITU-T
(CCITT) recommendations.

Functional Characteristics:

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 The core structure shall permit the inclusion of 16 optical fibres. Each of these shall
be separately identifiable throughout each continuos length of drummed or installed cable,
and will be subjected to neither direct mechanical stress nor modification of optical
characteristics due to the surrounding cable layers, to which various mechanical, electrical
and climatic stresses are expected to be imposed. The core shall include a strength member
to secure it at the terminal joint boxes and intermediate splice points. The structure of the
optic core and cable manufacturing constraints shall be such that the latter can support the
elongation variations without causing any additional attenuation or reduction in operating
life time. The fibres shall be entirely suitable for jointing by means of a normal fusion
splicing technique.

The same design and structure parameter shall apply for OPGW and fibre optic
approach cable (FOC)

Optical Groundwire (OPGW):

The design of the optical groundwire shall enable the OPGW to carry the maximum
earth fault current and currents resulting from up to about 98% of existing direct lightning
strikes. The materials used in the construction of the fibre optic cable shall enable the
OPGW to carry fault currents and lightning strikes with no effect on the properties of the
optical cable and without it sustaining any kind of damage either temporary or permanent.

The OPGW shall consist of fibres suitably protected by insulation and strengthened
and sheathed. The fibres shall be in encased groups of a maximum of four fibres. Each
group of fibres shall be located in its own channel in an extruded metal core which
comprises the centre of the whole OPGW. Preferably a repeaterless system shall be used.
OPGW shall be supplied in drum lengths of 4 km or more. No midspan joints will be
accepted in the OPGW.

The OPGW shall be designed in a way that allows no strain on the fibres with a stress
of 45% of the ultimate tensile strength on the OPGW over the full range of operating and
environmental conditions specified.

The OPGW shall form a continuous electrical path throughout the line and shall be
bonded to each tower.

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 At non-joint positions an earthing bond formed from a flexible aluminium alloy
conductor shall be connected to the OPGW. One end of the bond shall either be fixed with
a OPGW clamp or bolted to the suspension clamp, and the other end of the bond shall be
bolted to the tower.

At joint positions the OPGW itself shall be bolted to the tower.

The primary coating shall consist of an inert material which can be readily removed for
jointing purposes without damage to the fibre and without necessitating the use of
hazardous chemicals.

A secondary coating may be applied directly over the primary coating or alternatively
a loose jacket may be provided.

Where a tight fitting secondary coating is provided it shall consist of an inert material.

The secondary coating or loose tube shall be colour coded throughout the length of
the cable. If not part of the material of the secondary coating, the colour coding shall be fast
and capable of withstanding normal handling during termination.

The fibre coating shall be translucent such that fibre splicing techniques, using
optical alignment of cores by means of injection and detection of light through the cladding,
shall be supported. In addition, the fibre coating shall be optically matched to the cladding
to promote cladding mode stripping.

The composition of the OPGW shall be specifically designed to prevent the

degrading effect of hydrogen on the fibres.

The OPGW shall be capable of withstanding exposure to harsh desert environment

of maximum shade temperature = + 60 °C, maximum summer humidity = 100%, saline
haze, and sand and wind storms. Manufacturer’s test certificates proving OPGW
conformance with the IEC accelerated ageing test covering these extreme environmental
conditions shall be provided.

A structure including two layers of aluminium clad steel wires is preferred. The
OPGW must be capable of withstanding the passage of a specified fault current without any
deterioration of the optical, electrical or mechanical characteristics of its constituent parts.

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 The minimum elongation shall be defined for the condition where the OPGW is not
subjected to any tensile stress, and where a temperature is +25 °C. The maximum
elongation is the largest of the following three values :-

no tensile stress, temperature = +80 °C;

OPGW installed over the 550m span set at installation parameter of 2520m at
+45 °C and raised to the maximum temperature generated by the passage of a specified fault
current;

cable OPGW subjected to a stress equal to 70% of its breaking load and
brought to a temperature of -5 °C.

Outdoor Joint Boxes:

The joint box will be designed for :

 ensuring continuity of optical core sheath watertightness at joint box ,

 ensuring attachment on box of armor as well as all components of the optic core
excepting the optical fibres,

 guarantying that the mechanical and climatic stresses likely to be induced on the fibres
and fibre splices within the box during mounting, installation and working life do not lead
to a high risk of breaking during the minimum expected working life of the communication
link,

 guarantying that the properties of all the materials making up the junction box show no
change over time (in particular no problem of incompatibility) likely to result in an
appreciable risk of failure during the expected working life of the communication link.

Joint box technology will enable :

 cables entering only through the bottom thereof,

 rapid disassembly of box cover(s) giving access to fibre splices,

 repair of fibre splicing at least three (3) times during transmission line working life.

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 Enclosures shall protect splices from all construction and working stresses.
Attachment at FOC and OPGW ends to enclosures will be assured.

All joint boxes between each optical fibre shieldwire section shall be rigidly attached
to the tower main leg members using galvanised steel clamps. The shieldwire shall be
clamped to the tower main leg members with approved types of clamps at spacings no
greater than 1 m.

Each box shall be labelled "Warning - High Voltage" in English and Arabic.

The design of the box shall take due cognisance of the maximum ambient temperature of
the area through which the line passes and temperature gain due to solar radiation and if
necessary a galvanised steel sun-shield shall be fitted.

OPGW tower loops shall be sufficient to bring the joint box to ground level for
repairing, testing and maintenence purposes.

Tenderer is to provide dimension, weight and marking detail for all types of splice
enclosure, termination box and patch box proposed.

Splices:

The same way of splicing shall be implemented throughout the system.

The accurate alignment of fibre cores, prior to splicing, shall be verified using a technique
that monitors the optical power transmitted across the splice interface. Fusion splicing shall
be commenced only after manipulations of fibre alignment have maximised the transmitted
power.

Fusion splice optical losses shall average no more than 0.08 dB per splice. No single
splice loss shall exceed 0.1 dB.

The tenderer will submit a description of the tools and instruments needed to make the
splices as well as the method to be used. Type test certificates will be submitted to show
evidence that the procedures of quality control have been applied.

Splices shall be mechanically strenghtened and protected from the environment by

means of purpose designed splice sleeves or enclosures. The finished splice shall be

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supported within the splice (joint) box by means of suitable clis or restraints. It shall be
possible to remove and replace the splice in the support device without risk of damage to
the splice or fibre.

Each fusion splice shall have a spare length of fibre of aproximately 1,5 m
associated with it. This excess fibre shall be coiled neatly and clipped (or otherwise
retained) within the splice (joint) box.

Splices shall be mechanically strengthened and protected from the environment by

means of purpose designed splice sleeves or enclosures. The finished splice shall be
supported within the splice (joint) box by means of suitable clips or restraints. It shall be
possible to remove and replace the splice in the support device without risk of damage to
the splice or fibre.

Approach cable:

The fibre optic approach cable (FOC) shall be armoured type suitable for direct
burial and ducted underground.

Water-tightness:

The cable shall be gel-filled and shall meet the longitudinal water-tightness test
requirements. The fibre core shall be jacketed with high-density polyethylene having a rated
thickness of ³ 1.5 mm.

Protection:

The FOC shall be capable of withstanding mechanical radial stressed and shall be
protected against rodents and termites.

Marking :

Cable jackets shall be marked at 1m intervals along its length with text and symbols
identifying it as a fibre-optic telecommunication cable, manufacturers trademark and name,
cable type and capacity identification details, and wherever practicable with the initials
“NEC”. All marking shall be embossed or otherwise imposed onto the cable outer jacket so

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 as to both ensure the longevity of the marking and at the same time the integrity of the
jacket.

The fibres shall be entirely compatible to the characteristics of OPGW fibres.

No intermediate joints shall be permitted in any run of approach cable between its two
termination points.

Materials and Workmanship

Optical Core :

None of the materials used in the optical core shall be metallic. Also they shall :-

 have dimensional stability such that the optical characteristics of the fibres shall not be
significantly modified over the stated 20 year operating lifetime;
 have a maximum continous operating temperature at the core determined by the maximum
ambient temperature, sun radiation and any permanent residual current flowing through the
OPGW (>/= 80 °C);
 have filling that is compatible with all other materials used in the core, is compliant with the
conditions above for the fibres themselves, and that does not impair splicing and
termination by preventing the complete cleaning of all fibre surfaces.

The same design and structure parameter shall apply for OPGW and fibre optic approach
cable (FOC)

Outdoor joint boxes :

During mounting and installation as well as throuhgout the full life of the
communication link, the joint box will be subjected to various climatic and mechanical
stresses.

- Stresses related to mounting and installation :

 tensile stress exerted by tower optical cable on box,

 mechanical shocks

- Stresses occuring during use :

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 mechanical stresses due to elongation (or contractions) of optical central support
during temperature and mechanical load variations to which the FO cable is subjected,

 temperature effects and variations on box,

 wind provoked vibrations,

 variation of relative humidity and effects of industrial dust and salt

pollution,

 mechanical shocks.

OPGW Fittings :

Suspension fittings, deadend clamps, antivibration dampers and bonding clamps shall
be specifically designed for OPGW to ensure that the excessive contact pressure does not
exceed designed crushing limits of OPGW.

Erection :

The main aspects of erection for conductors stated in point 6.4 shall be also
applied for OPGW erection. Specific equipment and procedures for instalation of OPGW
shall be used.

Special attention shall be paid to the protection of the optical fibre during work
causing by tension, twisting, bending, crushing or vibration.

It is strongly recommended that designed values of maximum allowable tension

during installation not be exceeded and that tension monitoring and automatic cut off
devices be used to prevent such an occurrence.

Anti-twist device shall be used to prevent twisting during installation. It is also

recommended that the sheaves used at towers be grooved so that twisting of OPGW is not
induced.

During the cable pulling operation, the minimum bending radius should be more
than 400mm, except for sheaves which may have a minimum diameter of 400mm. In

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permanent situation the minimum bending radius for OPGW should be 500mm and 75mm
for fibre.

All hardware to be used in conjunction with OPGW should be thoroughly tested

with that design to prevent damage caused by crushing.

Vibration and other movements should be controlled with OPGW immediately

after installation. OPGW should be clamped very soon after it has been pulled into position,
to prevent the wind to cause vibrations or longitudinal movements which could have
harmful effects on the fibre protection.

All the precautions should be also followed during splicing operations.

The Contractor shall be responsible for the integrity of the mechanical, electrical and optical
connections to the whole link under the scope of supply before the link is commissioned in
service.

Tests :

Tests on Optical Fibre Cables (OPGW/FOC):

(a) At Factory

(i) Type Tests

- Tensile Strength
- Crush Test
- Stress Vs Strain Test
- Compression Response
- Twist Characteristic
- Bend Response
- Short Circuit Test
- Heat cycling Test.

(ii) Sample Test: (To be done on One drum from a batch)

- Dimension
- Cut Off Wavelength

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 (iii) Routine Test (To be done on each drum before delivery to MEW)

- TDR Scan (Trace to be retained for future reference, and inclusion

in the final test report).

- Attenuation (Trace to be retained for future reference, and inclusion

in the final test report).

(b) At Site (after installation)

(i) Splice Tests for every joint (Attenuation & Backscatter)

(ii) Link Tests for every section (TDR scan, Dispersion)

(c) Test Report

All of the test results shall be clearly annotated with date/time; item
identification; test equipment type and serial number; switch settings; screen axis names and
dimensions and the marking of all points of special interest with comments. Detailed
analysis and summary sections shall be included and the whole compiled into a single
volume for presentation within one month of the overall link acceptance.

Optical Fibre Tests

a) Preliminary measurements

Both of the length of the optic fibres and their homogeneity (back scattering method
in both directions) will be measured. The homogeneity of the fibres will be such that the
sum of the attenuation variations as deduced from defects detected over the whole length of
the fibre does not exceed 0.3 dB.

Fibre attenuation will be measured before the cable tests by the fibre-cut technique in
both directions. The two attenuation values will be less than the rated attenuation as
guaranteed by the Manufacturer.

b) Temperature tests

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 The specimen will be so placed on a drum that its packaging does not influence test
results (notably, OPGW/FOC will be allowed to freely expand and contract) and so that all
the turns are suitably aered.
Before performing the tests the specimen will be stabilized for, at least, four
hours.

(i) Initial measurements

Back-scattering measurements in both directions and attenuation measurement of the

totality of the optic fibres connected in series.

(ii) Procedure

0
Three identical temperature variation cycles will be performed: low temperature -0 C,
0
high temperature +80 C.

0 0
At each of these temperature stages, +80 C, -0 C, a sufficient amount of time is
allowed for specimen temperature stabilization before making the attenuation measurement.
One must be very careful to make sure that the tested specimen has reached a uniform
temperature throughout.

The duration of the various phases of each cycle is left to the discretion of the NEC’s
Inspector performing the test, however a minimum of 24 hours is required.

(iii) Measurements made during the test

- Specimen temperature at two points. One on the inner layer and the
other on the outer layer of the cables turns,
- Fibre attenuation variations, constantly measured at 1,300 nm and
1,550 nm
- In the case where attenuation measurements indicate a significant
variation: back-scattering measurement to locate the point (or zone)
where this increase is performed.

(iv) Results

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 0 0
Over one cycle the recorded attenuation variations between -0 C and +80 C have to
be less than 0.1 dB at 1,300 and 1,550 mm.

0 0
The maximum attenuation variation, between -0 C and +70 C, for all the cycles has to
be less than 0.15 dB measured at 1,300 and 1,550 nm.

OPGW Tests :

NEC will be supplied with a sample OPGW for acceptance tests.

The acceptance tests will include

(a) Stress-test

Specimen

OPGW cable specimen equipped with anchoring fittings placed at two points
symmetrical to the specimen mid-point and approximately 100 m from one another.

Initial measurements

- Back-scattering measurements in both direction over all the in-series

fibres.
- Attenuation of the totality of the in-series fibres, measured by insertion.

Test assembly

OPGW cable is stressed at 10% of its nominal ultimate strength. A trolley with three
pulley placed in the same vertical plane and the axes of which are set in the same horizontal
plane is placed on the cable.

The pulleys are of the type actually used when unwinding cables for the contract.
Distance between the axes of the extreme pulleys: 3,200 + 200 mm.
The trolley is run back and forth three times at a horizontal speed from 0.5 to 3 m/s over a
length between 30 and 50 m inclusive. After the test a 1 hour rest will be allotted.

Measurements made during the test

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Optic fibre attenuation variation will be constantly measured at 1,300 and 1,550 nm.

Results

No significant attenuation variation will be measured at 1,300 and 1,550 mm.

(b) Elongation tests

Specimen

OPGW cable specimen will be equipped with two anchoring fittings

symmetrically placed with reference to specimen mid point and anchoring points are
approximately 100 m from one another.

The fibre blocking device will prevent:

- any movement of optic core with reference to cable sheath and armors,
- any movement of fibres with reference to optic core.

Mechanical stresses exerted on optic fibres at blocking devices will be as low as

possible. Contractor will submit a method for approval.

Initial measurements

- Back-scattering measurements in both directions and attenuation

measurements on the totality of the in-series optic fibres
- Positions of optic core with reference to sheath, measured at each blocking
device.

Test

Other types of test will have to be approved. The tested OPGW length will be subjected
to a variable tensile stress C, as follows:

0.1 CRN, 0.4 CRN and 0.6 CRN are the stresses equal to 10, 40 and 60% of the cable
rated ultimate strength.

The value of C max is obtained through the equation:

C max = 0.7 CRN - a ESD q +ESr

15
 where
a = OPGW expansion coefficient
E = Young’s modulus calculated from the elongations measured during
the second test
cycle the stresses increasing from 0.4 CRN to 0.6 CRN
0
Dq = difference between the temperature prevailing during the test and - 5
C
r = relative value of core contraction observed during unwinding.

C max is the stress leading to the OPGW elongation identical to that which would occur
were the cable subjected to a stress of 0.7 CRN at
0
-5 C.
Measurement made during the test

- room (ambient) temperature,

- applied tensile stress,
- Young’s modulus (only during second cycle),
- aspect of armour (notably wire breaks),
- cable sliding at fittting outlets,
- optic fibre attenuation variations,
- if an insertion measurement indicates a significant increase of attenuation:
back-scattering measurements to locate the point (or zone) where this
increase occurs,
- position of optic core with reference to cable sheath, measured at each
blocking device.

Rest Time

At least one hour

Final measurements and observations

- attenuation, measured by insertion on all in-series optic fibres

at conditions applicable during the test, back-scattering measurements
- position of optic core with reference to sheath measured at each blocking
device
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Results

No significant attenuation variation will be measured at 1300 and 1550nm

Tests on fibre optic cable (FOC):

NEC will be supplied with a sample FOC for acceptance tests. The acceptance tests will
include :

(a) Optical core characteristics

Geometric parameters
The test will be made according to IEC 794-1 publication (x 2). The regularity of rod
geometric parameters (centering of central strength support, groove profile) will be visually
inspected with a profile projector: it will be checked also after the thermal cycles and tensile
tests.

Withstand of protective belt

The good withstand of the protective belt will be evaluated by winding 1 m of rod
around a spindle with a diameter of 35 D, where D is the rod diameter.

(b) Optical characteristics

Measurement conditions

The apparatus and conditions for measuring the optical and transmission properties
will comply with recommendation G652 of the ITU-T (CCITT) with IEC 793-1 publication
(Cut-back technique).

Attenuation

The linear attenuation per km values with a 1,300 nm wave length will comply with
the values given in the fibre technical specification.

Regularity of transmission and fault locating

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 Transmission regularity is checked by the back-scattering (according to IEC 793-1
publication) method from one end. If a singular irregularity of around 0.1 dB is observed it
is measured from both ends. Half of the sum of the two values then obtained will be less
than 0.1 dB. Neither break nor repair is allowed.

(c) Longitudinal watertightness

Checking watertightness of finished cable.

Compliance of FOC is checked for on samples taken off the ends of manufactured lengths.
The resistance to water penetration test will be as follows :
- A FOC sample, a length of 1 m longer than the test length, which must not
exceed 3 m, is cut off without any special precautions.
- The sample is wound around a spindle the diameter of which is equal to 15
times the maximum diameter of the jacket.

It is then unwound, straightened out and then wound again but in such a way that the
fibre compressed in the first winding becomes that stretched in the second by turning the
0
sample around on its axis by 180 , then unwound and straightended. This cycle will be
performed twice.

Then a test sample, maximum length : 3 m, will be taken from the middle of the FOC.
This is placed in a horizontal position and one end is subjected to a constant pressure of 1 m
of water column.

0
The test is performed at a temperature of 60 C. The water used may be colored
provided that the colorant does not significantly modify water viscosity.

If drops appear at the open end of the test sample within the time period fixed for the
test, this test is considered to be unacceptable.

Contractor will submit type test reports as evidence that the following has been
performed. Ten (10) test samples are taken from different delivery lengths. At least nine (9)
test samples will show no leakage after 168 hours of testing. At most one (1) test sample
may show leakage, which will not occur less than four (4) hours after the test begins. If a

18
leak occurs on this test sample in less than four (4) hours after the test began, a second test
sample from the same drum and having been subjected to the same preparation as the first
test sample is then tested. No leakage will occur for at least 24 hours after the beginning of
this test.

(d) Mechanical characteristics

Tensile strength test

The purpose of this test is to check the attenuation variations and fibres elongation as a
function of the load that can be applied to the cables during their installation. Other
procedures will have to be approved.

a) Test procedure
The tensile strength test is performed on a 150 m section of a 1000 m FOC. Four tensile
stresses will be applied :
To = 50 daN, T1 = 150 daN, T2 = 220 daN and T3 = 270 daN.

b) Acceptance requirements
The attenuation variations at To will be negligible.

The attenuation variations corresponding to the tensile stresses T1, T2 and T3 will be
less than or equal to 0.3, 0.6 and 1.0 dB/km at 1,300nm respectively.

FOC elongation at T1 will not exceed the value of the fibre extra length in the cable.

The FOC will not lengthen, between T1 and T3, by more than 0.15 %.

After the stress is released, attenuation and length of the FOC being tested will return
to their initial values (no structural retentivity).

The value T2 corresponds to tensile stress that is not to be exceeded during cable laying
operations.

Crushing test

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 a) Method
It will be compatible with the IEC 794-1 publication.
The crushing test is performed on a 20 m section of the same 1,000 m FOC.
Load is applied in 100 mm of cable by successive increments if 10 daN/mn up to a maximum
of 300 daN (during 1 s).

b) Acceptance requirements
The maximum applicable load is 30 daN per cm of generatrix.
Attenuation variation will remain less than or equal to 0.1 dB throughout the full duration of
the test and be reversible after relaxation.

Bending test
a) Purpose
The purpose of this test is to verify that the FOC bend neither increases
attenuation nor deteriorates the structure.
b) Method
This test is performed on the undamaged portion of the sample taken
for the crushing test.
The FOC is manually looped around a 300mm diameter spindle. The forces applied on
the bottom of the loop are in the same plane as the loop. This manipulation is performed five
(5) times on the same loop.

c) Acceptance requirements
- No folds will occur
- No change of the attenuation at 1,300 nm will be found during
the test.

(e) Thermal characteristics

Climatic test
During the tests and whenever applicable the FOC will be placed on a specific drum to
release the residual mechanical stresses in the fibres. Contractor shall submit type test reports
as evidence that the following tests have been performed and successfully passed. The tests
will be performed on the same FOC sample of 1000m length ; after the tests a fibre splice
will be made and its quality assessed.

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Temperature variation test
The procedure will be as per the IEC 68-2-14 recommendation
Test Nb change of temperature with specific rate of change.
The specific requirements will be as follows :
0
low temperature 0 C
0
high temperature +80 C
0
rate of change 1 C/mn
quantity of cycles 5
exposure time 5 hours

a) Checks
The optical attenuation will be measured :
- before and after the test.
- during the last cycle at both temperatures.
A visual inspection of the cable will also be made after the test.

b) Results
During the test the increase of attenuation will not be more than 100%
(reversible).
At the end of the test, the specimen will have no visible defect (cracks, clefts,
tears, ....) and the increase of attenuation will not be more than 25% of the rated
attenuation.

Damp Heat test

a) Method :
The test sample is placed in a container the temperature of which corresponds to
normal measurement conditions. After a three (3) hours preconditioning, container
0
temperature is raised to 80 C with a relative humidity of 93 % (tolerances :+ 2, - 3 %) and
held there for 21 days.

21
 The container is then brought back to normal measurement
0
conditions at a rate of 1 C/mn and a three (3) hour recovery period
follows.
b) Measurements
- Attenuation by cut-back method at the end of the recovery and preconditioning periods
- Visual check of the jacket

c) Acceptance requirements
At the end of the test, test sample will have no visible defect (cracks, clefts, tears, .....)
and attenuation increase will not be more than 25% of the rated attenuation.
Dry Heat test

a) Method:
Test sample is placed in a container the temperature of which corresponds to normal
measurement conditions.
Temperature within container is raised at an average of 1 °C/mn to 80°C.
Test sample remains at 80 °C temperature for 1,000 hours.

b) Measurements:
Attenuation due to stress is periodically (about every 100 hours), measured throughout
the test.

At the end of this test after a three (3) hour recovery period, a visual examination is
made as well as measurement of the attenuation by cut-back method.

c) Acceptance requirements
At the end of the test, test sample will have no visible defect (cracks, clefts,
tears,.....)and attenuation increase will not be more than 25% of the rated attenuation.

Climatic withstand test

a) Method :
The test sample, consisting of a FOC length of about 1 m, is placed in a container the
temperature of which corresponds to normal measurement conditions. It is mechanically

22
 held there in its normal operating position. the test is comprised of three consecutive cycles
each containing the following phases.

- Phase 1.
0 0
Temperature within the container is raised at an average rate of 1 C/mn to + 80 C

- Phase 2 .
Test sample is subjected, at this temperature, at four (4) hour days of exposure to the
radiation of a xenon lamp equipped with quartz filters as well as to sprinkling (6mn. every
60 mn.) The lamp intensity is adjusted so that the value of the energy received at the test
2
sample is 7 + 1 mW/cm between 320 and 380 nm.

- Phase 3
0 0
The container temperature is then lowered to 60 C (1 C/mn) and the relative
humidity raised to 98 %. The test sample remains therein for 48 h.

- Phase 4
0 0
Container temperature is lowered to 0 C at an average rate of -1 C/mn and test sample
remains therein for one (1) day (24).

- Phase 5
The cable length, ends excluded, is immersed in a salt water solution (10% NaCl)
containing a colorant. The container is placed in a climatic cell the of which corresponds to
normal measurement conditions (close tolerances) and remains therein for 24 hours.

b) Acceptance requirements
- at the end of phase 4 in visible defects will be seen by the naked eye.
- at the end of phase 5 the cable is dried and examined no traces of the colorant will be
found under the jacket.

Tests on Junction Boxes:

(a) General

Two categories of tests will be performed

23
Category A : Splices alone
However if the splice is accommodated in a specific support inside the junction box, this
support will be included in the tests.

Category B: Splices inside the junction boxes.

Regarding type 2 junction boxes, the specific device needed for fixing together
the optic core and OPGW armor will be included for the temperature and climatic tests, but
can be removed for other tests.
(b) Climatic tests

(i)Method

Temperature variation test

The procedure will be as per IEC 68-2-14

Test Nb : change of temperature with specific rate of change.
The specific requirements will be as follows

SPLICE JOINT BOX

Low Temperature 0 0
0C 0C
High Temperature 0 0
+ 85 C + 80 C
Rate of Change 0 0
1 C/mn 1 C/mn
Quality of Cycles 5 3
Exposure Time 3h 6h

(ii) Measurements
The optical attenuation (plus a check by the backscattering method when the splice
only is tested) will be measured during the first and the last cycle at both temperatures.
The same, as well as visual inspection will be also made at the end of the test.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

During the test, attenuation variation will not be more than 0.25 dB.

24
At the end of the test, the specimen will not have visible defects and the attenuation
increase will be less than 0.1 dB.

Damp heat test (Splice)

(i) Method
0
Test sample is placed in a container the temperature of which is raised to 80 C and
then whose relative humidity is raised to 100 %. It remains therein for 10 days.

(ii) Measurements
After a four (4) hour recovery a visual check, without cleaning, is made, attenuation
is measured and a back scattering method check performed.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

At the end of the test, the specimen will not have visible defects and the attenuation
increase will be less than 0.1 dB.

Climatic withstand test

a) Splices

(i) Method
Test sample is placed in a container the initial temperature of which corresponds to
0
normal measurement conditions. The container internal temperature is raised to 80 C at an
0 0
average rate of 1 C/mn. The test sample remains at the temperature of 80 C for 1,000
hours.

(ii) Measurements
During test, attenuation measurement and back scattering method checks are
periodically performed (approximately every 100 hours).
At the end of the test, following a two (2) hour recovery period, the following are
performed : visual inspection, attenuation measurement and a back scattering method
check.

25
 (iii) Acceptance requirements
At the end of the test, the specimen will not have defects and the attenuation increase
will be less than 0.1 dB.
b) Joint Boxes
(i) Method
The test sample is placed in a container the temperature of which corresponds to
normal measurement conditions. It is mechanically held there in its normal operating
position. The test includes three consecutive cycles each containing the following phases:

- Phase 1
0 0
Temperature within the container is raised at an average rate of 1 C/mn to + 80 C.

- Phase 2
Test sample is subjected at this temperature, to four (4) days of exposure to the
radiation of a xenon lamp equipped with quartz filters as well as to sprinkling (6 mn every
60 mn). The lamp intensity is adjusted so that the value of the energy received at the test
2
sample is 7 + 1 m w/cm between 320 and 380 nm.

- Phase 3
0 0
The container temperature is then lowered to 55 C (+1 C/mn) and the relative humidity
raised to 93 % + 2 %. The test sample remains therein for two (2) days (48h).

- Phase 4
0 0
Container temperature is lowered to 0 C at an average rate of 1 C/mn and test sample
remains therein for 24 h.

(ii) Measurements
At the end of the test and after a four (4) hour recovery period the attenuation of each
splice and fibre will be measured and the test sample will be visually examined.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

At the end of the test the test sample will have no visible defect and the attenuation
increase for each splice will be less than 0.1 dB.

26
 Corrosion test (joint box)

(i) Method
The test sample is subjected to the following test and this for seven (7) consecutive
days.
During the first eight (8) hours the test samples are kept in a humidity saturated
0 0
container with 0.067 % sulfur dioxide in volume. The temperature is raised to 40 C + 3 C
and held at this value. During the following sixteen (16) hours the container opening is left
open to the laboratory room temperature.
The sample is then subjected, beginning on the eighth (8th) day, to seven (7)
consecutive days of exposure to a salty mist as per IEC Publication 68-2-52 (Kb test)
0 0
spraying of an aqueous solution containing 10 % sodium chloride, temperature : 50 C + 1
C.

(ii) Measurements
At the end of the test and after washing the sample with demineralized water, the test
sample is virtually examined and the attenuation of each fibre splice measured.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

At the end of the test, the test sample will have no visible defects and the attenuation
increase for each splice will be less than 0.1 dB.

(c) Mechanical tests

(a) Vibrations

(i) Method

Test sample is attached to the vibrating cable by means of the standard attachment
device.

The test is performed according to the following three successive steps during which
vibrations are applied in three orthogonal directions, one along fibre axis and cable entry axis,
the others being perpendicular thereto :

Acceleration X=3g : cable entry axis (JOINT BOX).

27
Amplitude X = 10 g : splice axis (SPLICE).

Step 1 :
Vibration response investigation
. frequency range : 10 Hz through 500 Hz
. displacement amplitude : constant from 10 Hz through 57 Hz
. accelerating amplitude : 3 g from 57 Hz through 500 Hz
. sweep rate : 1 octave/mn
. duration : 1 sweep cycle.

Step 2 :
Sweep endurance of frequency range
. frequency range : 10 Hz through 500 Hz
. displacement amplitude : constant from 10 Hz through 57 Hz
. accelerating amplitude : X g from 57 Hz through 500 Hz
. sweep rate : 1 octave/mn
. duration : 10 cycles (120 mn).

Step 3 :
Endurance at critical frequencies
. frequency (ies) : frequency (ies) found during step 1or
100 Hz if no vibration response is identified
. acceleration amplitude : Xg
. duration : 30 mn for frequency

(ii) Measurements

During the test, the upstream optic fibre is coupled to a continuous stable light source
(emission side) and the downstream optic fibre is coupled to a detector enabling one to
observe the modulation of the continuous signal induced by the vibrations.
At the end of each step, sample will undergo a visual examination and back scattering
method check. At the end of the test, attenuation will be measured.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

28
 This test sample will show no defects visible by visual check likely to impair its proper
functioning.
Traction

(i) Method

(a) Splices

The following mechanical stress cycle is performed :

1- Apply a force increasing from 0N to XN at a rate of 0.05 N/s
2- Maintain the force at the value X for 60 s
3- Decrease force from XN to 0N at a rate of 0.05 N/s
The value of X is set at 1N; this test is performed less than one (1) hour
after making the splices.

(b) Junction box

- Type 2
The junction box is attached to a support by means of its attachment device. A tensile
force, along the axis perpendicular to cable entry face, is progressively applied until a value
X is reached. This force is successively applied to
- composite OPGW steel armour (X = 500 daN),
- optic core sheath with X = 100 daN,
- composite OPGW optic core (central member) with X = T3.
In no case will the optic fibres be damaged by the holding devices.
The tensile force is held at its maximum value for one (1) minute.
The value T3 will correspond to a relative elongation of the optic core equal to 0.7 %.

- Type 1
For type A joint boxes, the tensile test on the extension cable
will be limited to a single test with X = 100 daN.

(ii) Measurements

29
 At the end of the test, the samples will undergo a visual inspection and the attenuation
of each splice will be measured.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

After the test no defects visible to the naked eye capable of impairing proper functioning will
be found.
No fibre breaks will be found.
No variation of the transmitted luminosity will occur during the test.
No signal modulation will occur during the test.
Attenuation < initial attenuation + 0.1 dB, for each splice.
No sliding nor rupture will be observed during the tensile test.
Impact tests (junction box)

(i) Method
The joint box is attached to a support by means of its attachment device. Impacts are
made on it by means of a ram consisting of an arm rotating around a horizontal axis and
having on its lower end a hammer head.
Three (3) impacts are applied to each of the following points :
- on cable near cable entry into joint box,
- on the opposite side of the cable entry,
- on lateral sides of the joint box,
- on junction box devices for attachment to support.
Hammer mass is 5 kg, and vertical drop height is 0.60 m.

(ii) Measurements
Each fibre splice is subjected to visual inspection and an attenuation measurement.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

At the end of the test, test sample will show no visible defects and the attenuation
increase for each splice will be less than 0.1 dB.

Torsion test on cables (joint box)

30
 (i) Method
Joint box is attached to a support by means of its attachment device. Cable is
0
turned at about 1 m from box entry face + 180 around its axis. Three such cycles are
repeated at a rate of one cycle per minute.

(ii) Measurements
At the end of the test each fibre splice will be visually inspected and attenuation will
be measured.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

At the end of the test the test sample will show no visible defects and the attenuation
increase for each splice will be less than 0.1 dB.

Drop test (joint box)

(i) Method
This test is applied only to 2 joint junction boxes. The ends of the test sample is inlet-
outlet composite OPGW are firmly secured to a horizontal beam situated about 6 m above
ground level.
The test consists of five (5) consecutive cycles each comprised of the two following
phases :
- Phase 1 box is raised to the height of the cable attachments.
- Phase 2 box is dropped.

(ii) Measurements
At the end of the test each fibre splice will undergo an attenuation measurement and a
visual inspection of cable fixation to the box will be made.

(iii) Acceptance requirements

No sliding of cables at their fixation devices (to the box) will be observed.
Attenuation < initial attenuation + 0.1 dB for each splice.

31
Aircraft Warning Lights

General:

All towers shall be designed to accommodate air marking and lighting required under
ICAO regulations. This includes marking and lighting. All towers and spans designated by
the Owner/Engineer shall be equipped with aircraft warning spheres and or obstruction
lights.

As instructed by the NEC aircraft warning lights shall be fitted on specified towers.
Electric power for the warning lights shall be provided by a combination of silicon photo-
voltaic cells (solar panels) and lead-acid storage batteries. Switching of the lights during
periods of darkness and poor visibility shall be performed by photo-electric switches.

The complete system shall be designed to ensure maximum unattended operation

with minimal maintenance (maximum once per year).

Access to the solar panels and storage batteries shall be provided by a fixed ladder.

Provision shall be made on each tower for easy installation, removal and
replacement of batteries.

Obstruction Lights:

The obstruction lights shall consist of main and one stand-by low intensity omnidirectional
red lamps in compliance with ICAO Annex 14. The light shall be equipped with a
Neon discharge lamp having a rated life of at least 20,000 hours. Neon discharge
lamps shall be of the cold cathode type and fitted with RF screens.

The lights shall be designed to allow direct installation on any vertical or horizontal surface
of the shieldwire peak. The lamp unit shall be of the plug-in type. In case the power
adaptor cannot be installed at the lamp locations, and extension cable assembly with
lampholder shall be provided.

All components shall be suitably protected against corrosion and the light shall be
waterproof.

32
 The operation of the lights during periods of darkness or poor visibility shall be controlled
by a photo-electric switch. The lights shall operate when the northern sky
illuminance falls on a vertical surface to a level not less than 376.7 lux, and
correspondingly the lights shall be turned off when the northern sky illuminance
rises to a level not less than 624.3 lux. or as specified by NEC.

The frequency of flashing shall be adjustable between 14-60 per minute and the intensity
of the flash shall be not less than 10 candles of red light.

Photo-Voltaic Cells :

Photo-voltaic cells shall comprise matched monocrystalline silicon cells enclosed by

a glass front surface and a rear composite layer to provide the optimum thermal and
electrical performance. The cells shall be redundantly interconnected and provided with
integral bypass diodes to prevent cell overheating due to localised shading and system
continuity in the event of cell circuit failure.

The glass-front surface shall have similar thermal expansion characteristics to the
photo-voltaic cell, shall be resistant to impact and abrasion by wind blown material and
shall be self-cleaning under the action of rain.

The complete solar panel shall be suitably sealed in an anodised aluminium frame
which effectively isolates the cells from thermal and mechanical shock and prevents the
ingress of moisture.

The photo-voltaic cells in conjunction with the storage batteries shall be designed to
have the maximum system reliability, and battery life. Solar panels shall not be designed to
provide maximum power during periods of peak solar radiation, but to provide power at an
essentially constant rate over the annual solar cycle. The minimum charge state in winter
shall provide adequate reserve for weather anomalies, whilst the maximum charge state
achieved in the late summer months shall not exceed the rated battery capacity to prevent
the possibility of overcharging of the battery due to electrolyte evaporation.

For the protection of the solar array from reverse currents during darkness, a diode
shall be placed in series with the array.

33
The complete solar panel shall be designed to ensure that the maximum electrical output
degredation shall not exceed 10% over a 10 year period.

Support Framework :

The solar array support framework shall be designed to mount the complete solar
panel at the optimum tilt angle and to resist the imposed wind loading calculated in
accordance with British Standard Code of Practice CP3 'Basic data for the design of
buildings' Chapter V Loading Part 2 Wind Loads.

The support framework shall be manufactured from mild steel in accordance with BS
4360 Grade 43A and galvanised in accordance with the requirements of BS 729.

Storage Batteries :

Lead-acid or gellified electrolyte batteries of an extremely low self-discharging

type shall be used in conjunction with the photo-voltaic cells. The batteries shall have
proven cycling abilities in conjunction with photo-voltaic operation and shall be designed to
provide power during periods of low sum; which shall not be less than a minimum of 5 days
reserve storage plus specified low sun storage calculated from the optimum storage array
size associated with the location.

A voltage limitator shall be included to stop the charging process and thus
suppress possible 'boiling' of the electrolyte. Alternatively, where the photo-voltaic cells in
conjunction with the storage batteries are self-regulating, i.e., as the battery voltage
approaches the overcharge value the charging current fo\rom the photo-voltaic cells falls
rapidly to prevent overcharging, the voltage limitator may be omitted. In addition, the
batteries must have a stable voltage characteristic with less than 5 per cent variation in
nominal output voltage from fully charged to discharged.

Battery Enclosure :

A suitably designed battery enclosure shall be provided for housing the batteries and
control unit at the gantry level of the tower.

The enclosure shall have hinged access panels for ease of battery maintenance, vent holes in
the base and a ventilator at the top to provide adequate through venting of gases from the

34
batteries. Maximum and minimum electrolyte levels of all battery cells shall be clearly
visible.

Tests and Inspection :

As provided in the Conditions of Contract, the whole of the materials used in the
Works shall be subject to inspection and tests at the works as NEC may direct form time to
time as the work proceeds. The Contract shall submit for NEC's approval his proposed test
procedures which must clearly demonstrate the suitability of the complete system to meet
the environmental and operating condition specified.

The whole cost of such inspection and tests, includign the provision and use of
equipment, shall be included in the contract.

Packing And Shipping :

General :

The Contractor's proposal for packing and shipping of all materials is

subject to the NEC's approval prior to the despatch of any material.

Packing and climate proofing shall be subject to inspection and approval by

the NEC. This approval will be general for each class of equipment and is not required each
time an article or group of articles in such class is prepared for despatch but the NEC
reserves the right to examine the packing for any particular shipment. Where equipment is
subcontracted separate approval shall be given for each Subcontractor. The Contractor shall
be held responsible for and make good any and all damages due to improper preparation of
goods for shipment. Any additional expenses involved due to failure on the part of the
Contractor to comply with this requirement shall be borne by the Contractor.

General guidelines for packing and shipping, which are acceptable to the
NEC, are given below.

Wherever possible the Contractor shall utilise shipping by container vessels

in containers of the correct type for the items being shipped to reduce the likelihood of
damage to materials. If containers are not used the requirements of the following clauses
shall be applicable. All apparatus shall be carefully packed in a manner suitable for

35
transport to and storage on site and so that it is protected against all climatic conditions.
Particular attention is to be paid to the possibility of deterioration during transit to the site
from the country of manufacture by sea and overland.

Packaging Materials :

The need for the use of marine-ply notice boards will be at the sole
discretion of the NEC's Inspecting Officer. A packing note in a waterproof plastic envelope
is to be attached to the right-hand lower corner of one side of the case by means of a metal
plate securely fastened to the case and totally covering the packing note. A copy of the
packing list shall also be included in each package. Two complete packing lists showing the
number, marks, size, mass and contents of each packing case shall be posted to the NEC
immediately the material is despatched. All packing cases shall be marked on the outside of
the case to show the correct way up and, where relevant, where the weight is bearing and
the correct position for slings.

Sheathing of all wooden boxes, cases or crates shall be of the following minimum thickness:

Wire-bound boxes 10 mm

Plywood cases 10 mm

All others 20 mm

Wire-bound boxes shall not exceed the following limits:

Maximum gross mass 50 kg

Maximum volume (external) 2,000 cc

Maximum length (external) 900 mm

All timber used for the manufacture of wooden containers shall have a
maximum moisture content of 20 per cent. No oak, elm, sweet chestnut, afzelia or guarea
woods shall be used. Plywood sheathing shall only be used on properly framed or battened
cases.

36
Protection of Materials:

Parts liable to damage from knocks or jolting shall be appropriately

protected. When shipment is despatched in cases or crates, all items shall be so secured that
they are not free to move, and cannot work loose in transit. Bags of loose equipment shall
beplaced in supplementary cases, each bag having a metal label wire-stitched to it,
indicating the amount and nature of its contents. All dry parts liable to rust shall be coated
with anti-rusting composition. All electrical equipment liable to deterioration when exposed
to the atmosphere will be packed in sealed plastic envelopes (not evacuated) with adequate
desiccant.

All tension strapping used will be of steel and of a width and thickness
consistent with the mass of the containers on which it is used.

Tower Steelwork:

Identical piecemarks shall be packaged in each bundle, box, or pallet of

volume piecemarks.

Footing steel members having a mass of 20 kg or more shall be bundled,

boxed or palletised by identical piece marks in such a manner that they can be issued in
units of four footings per tower.

Where bundling or boxing by individual piecemarks is not practical due to

limited quantities, then piecemarks for the same component (class and item) may be
bundled or boxed together. However, such intermix of different piecemarks shall be limited
to the minimum possible number of bundles or boxes. In addition, pieces of the same
piecemark shall be packed together (segregated) within the bundle or box.

Bundles of identical piecemarks shall be of the same width and height, with
no more than one dissimilar sized bundle permitted in each shipment. All members within a
bundle shall be flush on the ends.

Members shorter than 1,200 mm in length may be bundled, palletised,

crated or boxed.

37
 Small parts, odd shaped plates, clip angles, and parts which do not readily
lend themselves for bundling or palletising shall be shipped in crates or boxes.

Non-abrading dunnage materials shall be used when needed. Spacers shall

be used between members.

Bundles shall be securely fastened with tension-tied steel bands of

sufficient tensile strength to support steel members during transit, unloading and yard
handling. Each bundle shall be banded 500 mm from each end with additional bands
equally spaced.

All bundles shall be separated from each other with wood spacers of 10 mm
x 10 mm minimum. Sufficient spacers shall be provided to prevent deflection or damage to
the steel members.

Insulators:

All insulators shall be carefully packed for transport by sea, rail and road.
Each crate shall contain only insulator units of the same type. Crates shall be of hexagonal
or rectangular cross-section.

Crates shall be wooden and should be close-boarded. They shall be

manufactured from sound seasoned softwoods and suitable for prolonged storage on site
under the climatic conditions present. They shall be steel-banded for additional strength at
not less than three positions along their length.

Crates shall be designed with internal struts or partitions to support

insulators and prevent insulator movement.

Insulators shall be fitted with retaining clips.

The guaranteed electro-mechanical strength and the type of the units in each
crate shall be clearly marked on each crate in a waterproof medium.

38
Conductors:

Conductor shall be supplied on drums of sufficient sturdiness to withstand

overseas shipment, and the drums shall be securely battened to prevent damage to the
conductor.

Each drum shall be marked with the length of the conductor on the drum.
The minimum diameter of drum barrel shall be 30 times that of the conductor.

Conductor shall be supplied in lengths as long as can be conveniently

handled and placed only on drums appropriate to its particular size.

The Contractor shall submit for approval, drawings showing the general
details and dimensions of the drums to be supplied. He shall also submit for approval a
detailed drum manufacturing specification.

All wooden components shall be manufactured from sound defect-free

seasoned softwoods and suitable for prolonged storage without deterioration or damage due
to termite attack. Wood shall be planed or finely sawn to facilitate accuracy in assembly
and clear stencilling. The thickness of the boards of each ply or component part shall be of
reasonable uniformity.

The flanges of drums shall be constructed from two ply of wood, laminated
in such a manner to give cross-grain to each other. The boards shall be close butted to
provide maximum support. Fastenings of the flanges shall be with suitable bright nails with
the head countersunk on the inside flange.

A flange conductor hole of sufficient diameter for the free passage of the
conductor shall be cut in one flange. The exposed end of the conductor shall be protected
by a suitable sheet metal plate.

The spindle hole shall be round and cut through the centre of the centre
board of each flange ply. The spindle holes, of not less than 80 mm diameters, shall be
reinforced by a 6 mm mild steel plate bolted to each flange.

The drum barrel shall be of the segmental type, with supports and cross-
struts. The barrel lagging shall be closely butted and shall provide a smooth external finish

39
to the conductor. The barrel and flanges shall be securely clamped together by not less than
six 20 mm diameter holes.

Drainage holes shall be provided through each flange as close as possible to

the underside of the barrel lagging.

Circumference battens shall enclose the conductor space completely. They

shall fit flush with the outer flanges. Battens shall be securely fixed in an approved manner.

The inner end of the conductor shall be brought through the drum flange
and secured by staples. The outer end shall also be secured to the inner face of the flange in
a similar manner. The drum barrel shall be covered with a layer of waterproof sheet plastic
or wax paper or shall be painted with aluminium flake paint.

The inner cheeks of the drum shall be painted with bitumen based paint..

The outer layer of conductor on the drum shall be covered by a layer of

sheet plastic or waxed paper secured immediately under the circumference battens so that it
is not in contact with the conductor.

Drums shall be provided with a secure weatherproof label displaying the

maker's name, size, type and length of conductor on the drum. Drum serial numbers shall
be chiselled into one drum cheek or impressed onto a secure metallic label. Drums shall be
painted on all outer surfaces in finishing colours to the option of the manufacturer.

Drums shall display an arrow and the words "Roll This Way" on each cheek
to show the correct direction of rolling.

Spares:

All packing cases containing spares shall be adequate for storage over a
period of at least five years without deterioration. All spares shall be packed separately
from other equipment. All cases containing spares shall be conspicuously marked as
containing spares. Spare conductors shall be supplied on steel drums fabricated in
accordance with American Aluminium Association Standards or other equivalent National
Standards.

40
Shipping Marks:

Shipping marks are to be stencilled in oil based paint in black letters and
symbols. When unobstructed flat smooth surfaces of sufficient size are not available on the
case for the shipping marks they are to be stencilled on marine-ply notice boards of
adequate size and of at least 6 mm thickness securely fastened to the packing case.

Pre-commissioning Checks and Tests:

Prior to the hand-over of any Section of the Works, the following checks and tests will be
carried out by the Contractor.

i) Full ‘walk through’ of the line and visual inspection of towers, insulators,
conductor/shieldwire, spacer-dampers, fibre optic cables, aircraft warning devices,
tower plates.

ii) Check that all phasing is correct, especially at downleads in to substations.

iii) Ensure all construction equipment (such as earths) is removed from the line and anti-
climbing device gates are closed and locked on each tower.

iv) The measurement of actual line parameters is to be carried out at site. Only approved
type of equipment shall be used. The following parameters are to be measured.

a) Positive/Negative and Zero phase sequence impedance.

b) Phase to phase impedance.

c) Phase to earth impedance

d) Mutual impedance between circuits on double circuit lines

e) DC resistance

41