Why are marker balls installed on power lines?
That is the exact reason why marker balls are installed on the power lines especially in case of the overhead cables and wires crossing the major highways, freeways, valleys, deep gullies and mostly fly low while landing at airports.
What are those Balls?
They are called “Marker Balls” and known as “Aerial Visibility Marker Balls”. They weight about 7.7kg (17 Pounds) each. Mostly used color for marker ball is “International Danger Orange” ( British STD. 381C-1964-No. 557 or U.S. Engineer’s Spec. 595-121197) however, yellow, red or white are also can be used in specific situation depending on the surrounding for clear visibility recommended by FFA (Federal Aviation Administration).
What they are used for?
Aerial marker Balls are used for safety. It saves lives and infrastructure by making guy wire and power lines (Transmission, distribution and communication lines) visible to the low flying helicopters, aircraft and plans according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FFA ).
How big should marker balls be for power lines?
For extensive catenary wires and power lines, the size should not less than 91cm (36 Inches).
Why are flashing marker balls used?
In some cases, flashing marker balls are used on transmission poles, towers and power lines for clear visibility. The power lines conductors and skyline become almost invisible against the terrain as the human eye start to loos its visual acuity at just a few degrees off dead center.
Why are marker balls placed on power lines?
Marker balls are colorful, spherical markers placed on power lines for the safety of low flying aircraft and to protect the electrical infrastructure. They allow the electrical wires to be noticeable (especially during times of low visibility or inclement weather) ...
What color are electrical wires?
The most used color is orange, but you may also see red, yellow and even white marker balls.
How far apart are aerial markers installed?
If there are multiple transmission lines on a certain location aerial markers are installed on an adjacent line if the distance between the outside lines is greater than 200 feet (61 m). If the distance is less than that there is no need for aerial markers balls on adjacent lines.
Why are aerial markers colored?
The aerial markers power lines are big and colored so that aircraft pilots can be able to see them from a far.
Why do wires sag?
Wires are bound to sag due to the increase in temperatures, the weight of the wire and wind. The maximum allowed distance between a wire that has balls installed and the one without is 25 feet (7.62m) d)Multiple transmission lines. If there are multiple transmission lines on a certain location aerial markers are installed on an adjacent line if ...
What is aerial marker ball?
Types of aerial marker balls. It is the most common type of marker Used since the 1960s. They feature a spiral line to fasten the ball on the power lines securely. They have superior color retention characteristics, and they are easy to install from the ground, bucket or helicopter.
What are power lines made of?
The round balls on power lines are made of 2 hemispheres which are clamped on the power line with aluminum alloy clamps. The clamps size depends on the earth wire dimensions. They are made from the finest quality FRP and polished on both sides. The color is infused with ultraviolet-resistant pigment to extend its life.
Why do people put balls on power lines?
Balls on power lines purpose are to prevent damage and loss of lives when low flying aircrafts hit and get entangled on the power lines. They warn pilots of the impending danger posed by the power lines.
Why are round balls on power lines used?
The alternating colors help to capture attention to the power lines and prevent aircraft from hitting the wires. Wires are bound to sag due to the increase in temperatures, the weight of the wire and wind.
The bright-colored balls on power lines actually serve a purpose
Have you ever noticed those colorful balls on power lines near your home and wondered why they're there? While there are several misconceptions about marker balls on power lines, these objects serve a distinct purpose.
What Are the Balls On Power Lines?
The brightly-colored balls you see on power lines are markers for visibility. You'll notice that electric line balls are always a bold color like yellow, orange, red or white. Many places with power lines that feature markers have dense forests, mountain ranges or fields in the distance that can make the lines difficult to see.
Dispelling Rumors About the Balls on Electric Lines
People who don't know the full story sometimes speculate around the purpose and function of electric line balls. A few common misconceptions are that power line markers are weights for the lines, weather sensors or even surveillance systems. These theories are incorrect.
Learn More About Energy Infrastructures and Savings Opportunities With EnergyBot
Pilots fly at low altitudes all the time, so it's nice to know that the marker balls on power lines are there to ensure safe air travel. You can learn more about electricity infrastructures when you read the EnergyBot blog online. We cover all kinds of topics that help you understand and make the most of your energy system.
Aerial Marker Balls and Balisor Attached in High Voltage Power Transmission Lines
If you come across a high tension overhead power transmission lines conductor, some colored balls hanging on those conductors will catch your eyes. Seeing them, you must also have a question that what is their usefulness? Are they applied just for decoration? So the answer is no.
What Is Aerial Marker Ball?
The colored plastic balls hanging on overhead electricity conductors are called aerial marker balls, and they are installed along the length of transmission line conductors that normally not visible enough to act as a visual warning so low altitude flying aircraft like helicopter don’t run into them.
What Is Balisor in High Voltage Power Transmission Line Attached?
There’s also something called a balisor, which is actually a system of glowing beacons that use low-pressure neon lamps positioned along the length of high-voltage power lines.The system is extremely simple, efficient and reliable and is considered the most economically viable solution.
