Lattice steel towers serve as core infrastructure of power transmission grids, directly determining the stability and safety of power delivery. After long-term operation, tower performance tends to degrade due to environmental erosion, increased power loads and updated industry standards. Hence, targeted upgrading and renovation act as a key measure for grid operation and maintenance as well as efficiency improvement, and are essential to support high-quality development of the power sector.
There are two primary drivers for tower upgrading and renovation. For one thing, wind, rain and corrosion in natural environments lead to aging components, rust formation and loose bolts, undermining structural stability and bringing potential risks to power transmission. For another, power loads keep rising year by year alongside continuously updated safety codes. Old towers fail to meet current standards and power supply demands in terms of load-bearing capacity and electrical performance, making renovation inevitable.
Comprehensive professional inspection and evaluation shall be implemented prior to renovation. Technicians adopt professional equipment such as non-destructive testing instruments to detect visible damages including cracks and rust on towers. They also verify the structural integrity of foundations, tower legs and cross-arms, and formulate scientific renovation schemes based on site conditions and line operating status.
Renovation mainly covers structural reinforcement and upgrade of electrical components. Structurally, additional diagonal braces and reinforced steel members can be installed, and corroded parts replaced to enhance the tower's wind resistance, seismic performance and structural strength. Electrically, pollution-resistant and moisture-proof new insulators can be deployed, together with upgraded large-section conductors and grounding systems, to avoid flashover and lightning faults, and increase transmission capacity and operational safety.
Furthermore, safety regulations must be strictly followed throughout the renovation process. Workers shall be equipped with protective gear, and ecological protection should also be taken into consideration. Standardized upgrading and renovation can effectively extend the service life of towers and comprehensively improve the reliability and safety of power grids.
