Design of Overhead Transmission and Distribution Lines using PLS-CADD and PLS-POLE
02 - 06 March 2026
Sandton City Tower
Johannesburg South Africa
Cost per Delegate
$1,500.00
Introduction
Overhead transmission and distribution (T&D) lines form the backbone of power delivery networks, and their efficient design is crucial for ensuring reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness. This course offers a practical and in-depth exploration of the design of overhead power lines using industry-standard tools—PLS-CADD and PLS-POLE.
Participants will gain hands-on experience in designing transmission and distribution structures, analyzing structural loads, terrain modeling, and applying relevant international standards. Through real-world case studies and design exercises, the course bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
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Objectives:
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the fundamental concepts of overhead transmission and distribution line design.
2. Use PLS-CADD for line alignment, terrain modeling, and structural analysis.
3. Design and analyze poles and structures using PLS-POLE.
4. Apply relevant design codes (e.g., NESC, ASCE, IEC, IEEE) in T&D projects.
5. Perform conductor sag and tension calculations.
6. Evaluate and optimize line routes using PLS-CADD tools.
7. Analyze loading conditions, clearances, and safety margins.
8. Generate construction-ready outputs such as plan and profile drawings, material lists, and reports.
9. Troubleshoot common challenges in overhead line design.
Who Should Attend:
This course is ideal for:
• Transmission and distribution line engineers
• Structural and civil engineers in the power sector
• Power system planners and designers
• Utility engineers and consultants
• Project managers working in T&D infrastructure
• Engineering students and graduates seeking specialization in power line design
• Professionals involved in rural electrification or grid expansion projects
Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Overhead Line Design
• Overview of power transmission and distribution systems
• Design criteria and considerations
• Standards and regulations (NESC, ASCE, IEC)
Module 2: Overview of PLS Software Suite
• Introduction to PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE, TOWER
• Software installation and interface navigation
Module 3: Terrain Modeling and Line Routing in PLS-CADD
• Importing survey and terrain data (LiDAR, DEM, ASCII)
• Creating and managing alignment
• Line profile and plan development
Module 4: Structure Modeling and Selection
• Structure libraries and configuration
• Criteria for structure selection
• Application of PLS-POLE for pole design and analysis
Module 5: Conductor and Hardware Modeling
• Conductor properties and selection
• Sag-tension analysis
• Hardware and insulator modeling
Module 6: Load Case Development and Application
• Wind, ice, and temperature load cases
• Application of safety factors
• Load combination rules
Module 7: Pole and Structure Analysis in PLS-POLE
• Input parameters and geometry setup
• Material properties and cross-section design
• Load application and analysis
• Interpretation of analysis results
Module 8: Clearance, Span, and Sag Analysis
• Ground clearance checks
• Span length optimization
• Sag and tension calculations under different conditions
Module 9: Foundations and Guying
• Basic design of pole foundations
• Guy wire design and placement
Module 10: Project Reporting and Documentation
• Generating reports and bills of materials
• Exporting drawings and design data
• Preparing construction packages
Module 11: Case Studies and Practical Exercises
• Real-world project simulation
• End-to-end design using PLS-CADD and PLS-POLE
• Group discussions and design presentations
Module 12: Wrap-up and Assessment
• Final review and Q&A
• Hands-on assessment or mini project
• Certification of completion
End of the Workshop
For Training arrangements call us on the detail below
TANZANIA: +255 749 50 26 78
SOUTH AFRICA: +27 694 31 79 73
KENYA: +255 749 50 26 78
DUBAI: +27 694 31 79 73
