Modern power systems are the fundamental infrastructure of every line and system. They support, distribute, and provide power miles away.
Take an example of electricity that is transmitted thousands of miles away. For power transmission, there are two crucial types of systems. Transmission systems that take power over longer distances. The second is the distribution system that provides power to the domestic level.
Do you want to know both of them and their differences? Also, learn about the SDGI cables as your long-lasting partner. This guide will illuminate the transmission through the buried optical fiber cables and distribution systems.
Transmission and distribution lines have some differences that make them unique and valuable for different applications. Here are a few differences.
Voltage handling is different between the two as one deals with the transmission while the other provides the voltage.
For example, transmission lines have single-mode buried fiber optic cables. They deal with high-voltage transmission ranging from 69 kV to over 765 kV.
On the other hand, distribution lines supply the power from the transmission lines. They can play with voltage ranging from 11kV to 33kV for the primary distribution. For domestic supplies, the voltage is cut short to 240V to 480V.
Transmission and distribution lines serve different purposes and have different infrastructures because of their purpose.
Transmission lines have a robust infrastructure and transmit power over hundreds of miles. They often maximize the transmission and minimize the power losses. Transmission occurs in remote urban areas and industrial sectors.
Distribution lines often treat the transmission up to a few kilometers. They take power to your home or factories. Their purpose is to supply end-users with an electrical supply.
Infrastructure varies based on the goal. For example, Transmission systems usually use steel lattice towers or tall pylons. They have single-mode buried fiber optic cables and high-voltage overhead lines. Advanced features make them withstand environmental challenges and heavy cable loads.
Distribution systems often use wooden, steel, or concrete poles. It supports lower voltage lines. In urban areas, underground fiber optic cable systems are standard for safety and aesthetic reasons.
Transmission systems have a different target audience compared to the distribution systems. Transmission supplies power to utility companies, substations, and large-scale industrial clients. At the same time, the distribution units provide power supply to end-users, consumers, and domestic systems to empower the homes and commercial sectors.
Aspect | Transmission Power Lines | Distribution Power Lines |
Purpose | Transport electricity from generation plants to substations over long distances | Deliver electricity from substations to homes, businesses, and small industries |
Voltage Range | High voltage: 69 kV to 765 kV or more | Medium to low voltage: 11 kV to 33 kV (primary), 240V to 480V (secondary) |
Distance Covered | Long distance (inter-city or inter-state) | Short distance (within cities, neighborhoods, or industrial zones) |
Infrastructure | Large steel towers or pylons; mostly overhead | Wooden or concrete poles for overhead; also common in underground networks |
Cable Installation | Overhead conductors, rarely insulated | Both overhead and underground; often insulated for safety |
Cable Types Used | - ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) - AAC (All Aluminum Conductor) - AAAC (All Aluminum Alloy Conductor) | - YJV (XLPE insulated power cables) - KVV (PVC insulated control cables) - ABC (Aerial Bundled Cables) |
Load Capacity | Designed for extremely high currents over long distances | Designed for moderate to low current delivery to individual units |
Cable types vary depending on the type. Let's have a detailed overview of the cable types.
● ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) cables combine the high conductivity of aluminum with the tensile strength of steel. They are preferred for overhead lines requiring long spans.
● AAC (All Aluminum Conductor) cables are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Therefore, they are helpful in areas where environmental factors such as salt spray are a concern.
● AAAC (All Aluminum Alloy Conductor) cables offer a good middle ground between AAC and ACSR. They are better at mechanical strength and corrosion resistance.
Do you want to purchase these cables? Don't worry at all. SDGI cables are there for long-distance and high-voltage transport.
The distribution line comes with the following cables.
● YJV (Cross-Linked Polyethylene Insulated Power Cable) is famous for its high thermal resistance, chemical stability, and flexibility. They are often used in underground distribution.
● KVV (Control Cable) is a powerful, valuable cable for power distribution and control circuits. You can use them in commercial and industrial setups.
● ABC (Aerial Bundled Cable) is a group of insulated conductors bundled together. They offer overhead distribution and safety in densely populated areas.
SGDI manufactures all these cables with high precision and quality. You can expect high-end and seamless load distribution.
The selection of the correct cable depends more on the uses and choices. Installation, compliance, and voltage requirements also matter a lot in the selection process.
Do you want to know the crucial tips to select the right cable? There are a few factors discussed here.
The selection of the voltage makes the choices right. Underrated voltage estimation can burden the system and cause failures quickly. Over-estimation can suck your budget and can be costly in various cases.
Therefore, divide the cables into various voltage load handling requirements and get the ultimate solution. Here is how you can understand it.
● Low voltage (LV): ≤ 1 kV (e.g., household wiring, small office equipment)
● Medium voltage (MV): 1 kV – 35 kV (e.g., urban power distribution)
● High voltage (HV): > 35 kV (e.g., transmission lines, substations)
The location and conditions of the cable installation environment can change the whole selection of options. The underground cable installations require mechanical strength and better insulation. Overhead lines require weather resistance and moisture protection to avoid sparks and failures.
Depending on the installation environment, you should check out the following factors for the installation.
● Overhead installation can be made up of conductors like AAC, AAAC, or ACSR with high tensile strength.
● Direct burial ensures you have armored cables like YJV22 with steel tape to resist soil pressure.
● Tunnels/conduits require flexible control cables or flame-retardant cables.
Cables should always follow the international standards of safety. It should follow various international standards depending on the domestic area.
Here are a few standards implemented globally.
● IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)
● GB (China National Standards)
● BS (British Standards)
● UL/CSA (North American)
● RoHS/REACH compliance for environmental safety
Your cables should follow all these standards and keep the safety onboard. Products from SDGI follow all the international standards and help you deploy in your area safely. You get certificates and third-party test reports.
If you keep a load less than rated, it is not a big deal. However, exceeding the limits can cause system failures and might damage your components. You should check the recommended loads and safety of your systems.
The load current, duty cycles, and power quality must be under your radar when checking for safety.
Here is more to focus on:
● Current-carrying capacity (ampacity)
● Temperature rating (usually 70°C, 90°C, or 105°C)
● Duration of use: continuous vs. intermittent load
Fiber optic cables are exposed to sunlight constantly. Moreover, environmental factors, such as moisture, chemicals, vibrations, and rodents, can also be a problem.
You should grab a cable with the following features.
● UV-resistant jackets for outdoor use
● Flame-retardant sheaths for indoor or confined spaces
● Rodent protection or steel wire armor (SWA) in rural or industrial areas
● Halogen-free options for public infrastructure like airports or hospitals
You might have heard of the SDGI earlier and had several questions. SDGI has been here for decades and delivers high-end material to consumers. There is much more to know about the SDGI that makes it the number one choice for consumers.
All our buried optical fiber cables are manufactured under precise CNC machines and have a next-level quality. Their flawless technology and automation keep you ahead of your competitors and ensure seamless power transmission over longer distances.
Where do you want to deploy your system? US, UK, or European countries are not a big deal for the installation of underground fiber optic cable. It is because of our certificates that are a golden ticket everywhere. You can grab a range of certificates, such as ISO, IEC, BS, ASTM, and other standards.
We are not just another company working for you. Instead, we are reputed for our premium customer support, high quality, and quick responses to your issues. Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) firms and government utilities have faith in our services and keep us on their top-rated suppliers list.
Shipping globally is the most asked question by our consumers. But you don't have to worry as we already have a robust network to export products to your region without a second thought. Our shipping speed is fast and provides a premium experience.
Electrical power supply relies on the transmission and distribution systems to reach a remote area. You should know the difference between the cables before you plan the cable engineering and transmit the power to remote areas.
Do you want the best quality of buried fiber optic cables? SDGI is here for the advanced manufacturing technology, customization, and affordable prices. Also, get a wide range of optical ground wire systems to ensure safety. Check products right away!
