Overhead and Underground Power Line Design

Unit code: NNM6003 | Study level: Postgraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
N/A
Overview
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Overview

This unit advances students’ skills, capabilities and specialist knowledge in cable systems, types of system topologies, manufacturing practices and relevant standards. Students will investigate and resolve complex problems in overhead and underground design and construction of power distribution networks through the application of advanced theoretical knowledge, critical analysis and professionally-relevant practical skills. The uses and design parameters of equipment necessary for underground system design will be investigated. Subsequently, basic underground cable design practices are reviewed and installation practices for both transmission and distribution projects are justified. Relevant application concepts such as hydraulic pressures, commissioning and industry standards will be articulated. Students will also critically review and reflect on power delivery requirements (in voltage and megawatts) and the maximum outage limitations in order to survey the electrical, mechanical and environmental requirements for an Australian overhead line and underground cable.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Adapt specialist technical knowledge of cable systems, manufacturing practices and standards to a variety of current professional contexts;
  2. Investigate underground cable design and installation practices for both transmission and distribution projects to optimise operational reliability and safety;
  3. Critically reflect on specialised technical knowledge and skills to design for the electrical, mechanical and environmental requirements for Australian overhead lines;
  4. Design and simulate an overhead line for a given Basic Insulation Line (BIL) and conduct transient analysis from a lightning and switching perspective;
  5. Conceptually map and evaluate the key design aspects of overhead line construction and maintenance including OHS requirements and long-term operational regimes; and
  6. Collaborate with others with responsibility and accountability for own learning in planning, problem solving and decision making in professional practice.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Laboratory Work
|
Grade: 30%
Lab reports on practicals relevant to operation of transmission lines (Individual work & submission, Team of two, 1500 words)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 20%
Project 1
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 30%
Project 2
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 20%
Group presentation on Project 2 and contribution (Individually assessed)

Project 1 Report on the critical review of reliable and safe operation of overhead power lines (1500 words) (Individual)
Project 2 Report on effective management of underground power lines (2500 words) (Group project with individual submission of a team reflection and peer review proforma)

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.

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