Equipment Technical Specification

OPGW - optical
ground wire
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
As the information contained in this publication is subject to change from time to
time, Endeavour Energy gives no warranty that the information is correct or complete
or is a definitive statement of procedures. Endeavour Energy reserves the right to
vary the content of this publication as and when required. You should make
independent inquiries to satisfy yourself as to correctness and currency of the
content. Endeavour Energy expressly disclaims all and any liability to any persons
whatsoever in respect of anything done or not done by any such person in reliance,
whether in whole or in part, on this document.

Document no. ETS 0008

Amendment no. 0

51 Huntingwood Drive, Huntingwood NSW 2148

Postal address: PO Box 6366 Blacktown NSW 2148
Phone: 131 081 Fax: (02) 9853 6000

Copyright © Endeavour Energy 2012

 EQUIPMENT TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Document no. ETS 0008
Amendment no. 0
NETWORK ENGINEERING Approved by MNEB
Approval date 03 January 2012

ETS 0008 OPGW – optical ground wire

Contents

1.0 PURPOSE..............................................................................................................3
2.0 SCOPE...................................................................................................................3
3.0 REFERENCES.......................................................................................................3
4.0 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS.................................................................4
5.0 ACTIONS ...............................................................................................................4
5.1 OPGW design requirements ...............................................................................4
5.2 Quality ...................................................................................................................5
5.3 Testing requirements...........................................................................................5
5.3.1 Type tests .........................................................................................................6
5.3.2 Optical tube filling compounds..........................................................................9
5.3.3 Sample/factory acceptance tests....................................................................10
5.3.4 Routine tests...................................................................................................10
5.4 Mechanical/electrical requirements .................................................................13
5.4.1 Maximum allowable clearance time................................................................14
5.5 Optical fibre requirements ................................................................................15
5.5.1 Fibre attributes................................................................................................15
5.5.2 Protective materials ........................................................................................15
5.5.3 Optical tube filling compounds........................................................................16
5.5.4 Colour coding .................................................................................................16
5.5.5 Hydrogen effect ..............................................................................................17
5.6 Drum requirements ............................................................................................17
5.7 OPGW line hardware..........................................................................................18
6.0 AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES..........................................................18
7.0 DOCUMENT CONTROL......................................................................................18
Annexure 1: AS 3607:1989 tables ...............................................................................19
Annexure 2: I²t Curve (250 kA²s) .................................................................................23
Annexure 3: Technical schedule: OPGW ...................................................................24

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

1.0 PURPOSE
To set out in detail the requirements for the supply and delivery of optical ground wire
(OPGW) for use on Endeavour Energy’s overhead transmission network.

2.0 SCOPE
This Specification will outline the minimum electrical, mechanical and optical requirements of
the OPGW and associated line hardware, to be used on Endeavour Energy’s transmission
network on voltage levels ranging from 33kV to 132kV.
This document also specifies the maximum allowable clearances times that all transmission
lines within Endeavour Energy’s transmission network with OPGW shall meet, to ensure the
OPGW does not exceed its designed fault rating.
Where applicable, the OPGW shall comply with the following Standards, the OPGW shall be
manufactured and tested to the standards with the year of publication listed below. OPGW
manufactured and/or tested to previous or later versions of the standards shall not be
accepted. In the event of inconsistencies and/or conflicts between the requirements outlined
within this document and the Australian and/or International standards, the requirements
within this document shall take precedence.

3.0 REFERENCES
• Company Policy 9.2.2 – Network Protection
• Company Policy 9.2.5 – Network Asset Design
• Company Policy 9.2.10 – Network Asset Ratings
• Company Policy 9.7.1 – Network Asset Construction
• ENA National Electricity Network Safety Code (Doc 01-2008)
• Network Management Plan 2009-2014
• AS 2505.5:2002 Metallic materials - Wire - Simple torsion test
• AS 3607:1989 Conductors – Bare overhead Aluminium and aluminium alloy – Steel
reinforced
• AS 5434:1998 Zinc and Zinc/Aluminium – Alloy Coating on Steel Wire
• AS/NZS 14763.3:2007 Telecommunications installations - Implementation and operation
of customer premises cabling - Part 3: Acceptance testing for optical fibre cabling
• AS/CA S008:2010 Australian Standards / Communications Alliance - Requirements for
customer cabling products
• AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems – Requirements
• IEC 60811-4-2 Insulation and sheathing materials of electric and optical cables –
Common test methods Part 4-2
• IEC 60811-5-1 Insulation and sheathing materials of electric and optical cables –
Common test methods Part 5-1
• IEC 60468:1974 Method of measurement of resistivity of metallic materials”
• IEC 60793 series Optical Fibres
• IEC 60794-4-10:2006 Optical Fibre Cables – Aerial optical cables along electrical power
lines – Family specification for OPGW
• IEC 61089:1991 Round wire concentric lay overhead electrical stranded conductors
• ITU-T G.650.1:2010 Definitions and test methods for linear, deterministic attributes of
single-mode fibre and cable
• ITU-T G.650.2:2007 Definitions and test methods for statistical and non-linear related
attributed of single-mode fibre and cables
• ITU-T G.652:2009 Characteristics of a single-mode optical fibre and cable

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

4.0 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

AS Australian Standard
AAC all aluminium conductor
AAAC all aluminium alloy conductor
ACS aluminium-clad steel
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
ISO International Organisation for Standardisation
ITU International Telecommunications Union
MAOC maximum allowable ovality
MRA Mutual Recognition Agreement
MSDS material safety data sheet
NATA National Association of Testing Authorities
NZS New Zealand Standard
OPGW optical ground wire
RTS rated tensile strength
UTS ultimate tensile strength
5.0 ACTIONS

5.1 OPGW design requirements

OPGW used within Endeavour Energy’s transmission network shall include either 48 or 144
fibres (as selected by the project requirements) and generally be constructed according to
one of the following two (2) designs.
All projects within Endeavour Energy shall use the 144 fibre OPGW design unless otherwise
approved by the Manager Network Engineering.
Only OPGW designs consisting of strands of like materials (for example aluminium,
aluminium clad steel, aluminium clad stainless steel) in contact with one another (including
both the metallic strands and optical tube) will be accepted. Designs shall not incorporate
grease between the metallic strands.
If aluminium clad stainless steel tube is used as the optical tube, it shall not be included in the
calculation of the OPGW’s minimum breaking load.

Aluminium clad
Aluminium clad steel strands
steel
Aluminium alloy
Aluminium alloy strands
strands
Extruded
aluminium
Aluminium clad
stainless steel Optical
tube/fibres

Spacer rod

Figure 1 – Multi loose tube construction Figure 2 – Extruded aluminium tube

OPGW constructions other than those specified in Figures 1 and 2 may be considered if it
can be shown that the proposed constructions provide equivalent/superior electrical,
mechanical and optical performance when compared with the preferred designs.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

5.2 Quality
The manufacturer and all OPGW design facilities shall operate a quality system complying
with the requirements outlined in the AS/NZS ISO 9001. The quality systems shall be third
party quality accredited. Evidence of external third party accreditation shall be submitted with
the tender offer.
Where the OPGW supplier is not the manufacturer/designer of the materials offered,
accreditation of the manufacturer(s) and designer(s) must be submitted.
Submitted documentation shall include:
• A current copy of the quality manual(s)/documentation used by manufacturer/design
facilities.
• A preliminary quality plan for the design and production of the equipment. A final quality
plan shall be submitted and approved prior to commencement of production.
• A statement of conformance, or details of any area of non-conformance.
• A copy of the certificate of accreditation from an accredited facility.
5.3 Testing requirements
Routine, sample and type tests shall be carried out in accordance with the methods,
requirements and limitations outlined within this document and the following standards:
Completed OPGW
- IEC 60794-4-10:2006 Optical Fibre Cables – Aerial optical cables along electrical
power lines – Family specification for OPGW
Optical fibres
- ITU-T G.650.1:2010 Definitions and test methods for linear, deterministic attributes
of single-mode fibre and cable
- ITU-T G.650.2:2007 Definitions and test methods for statistical and non-linear
related attributed of single-mode fibre and cables
- ITU-T G.652:2009 Characteristics of a single-mode optical fibre and cable
- AS/NZS 14763.3:2007 Telecommunications installations - Implementation and
operation of customer premises cabling - Part 3: Acceptance
testing for optical fibre cabling
Stranded wires
- AS 3607:1989 Conductors – Bare overhead Aluminium and aluminium alloy –
Steel reinforced
Suppliers wishing to submit testing to another standard (such as IEC 60793) shall provide a
copy of all relevant test standards, as well as a comparison between the proposed standards
and those referenced above.

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5.3.1 Type tests

All type tests shall be carried out by a laboratory recognised by NATA Australia’s Mutual
Recognition Agreement (with international testing facilities) unless otherwise agreed in writing
by Endeavour Energy’s Chief Engineer. The following additional requirements apply:
• Type test reports for OPGW’s similar to the proposed design(s) offered to Endeavour
Energy will be accepted, on the condition that no significant changes exist between the
two cables material, design or type of manufacturing process used, that may change the
performance characteristics of the proposed cable from the type tested design. The
Endeavour Energy’s Overhead & Underground Mains Manager will have the final decision
on if it is considers that a significant change has occurred between the proposed OPGW
and the submitted type test.
• Reports written in any language other than English shall not be accepted by Endeavour
Energy unless such reports are translated into English by a sworn translator.
• Type test reports shall not be more than five (5) years old from the closing date of the
tender. Reports not within the five (5) year period shall be accompanied by supporting
evidence demonstrating that the manufacturing process, raw material and design have
not significantly changed since the original type testing was completed. Acceptance of
type tests greater than five (5) will be at the Overhead and Underground Mains Manager’s
discretion.
5.3.1.3 Completed OPGW
The following type tests (in accordance with IEC 60794-4-10, clause 9) shall be completed on
each OPGW design submitted for approval:
For all tests under load conditions the fibres shall be terminated at both ends prior to strain in
a manner such that the optical fibre ends cannot move relative to the cable ends.

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

The OPGW shall be secured at The fibre

both ends (with suitable attenuation shall not
fittings). The tension shall be exceed 0.2 dB/km
continuously increased until at 1550 nm.
IEC 60794-1-2 Maximum Allowable Tension is
Tensile performance The fibre strain
Method E1 reached and the fibre
attenuation/fibre strain recorded margin shall be
as a function of the greater than the
tension/elongation of the value specified in
OPGW Annexure 3

A sample not less than 10 m

A stress strain curve
shall be taken. The sample
shall be submitted.
shall be loaded, held and
IEC 61089 unloaded as required by The modulus of
Stress strain test
Annexure B IEC 61089. elasticity shall be as
specified in
The maximum load shall not
Annexure 3
exceed 70% of RTS.

A sample of OPGW shall be No factures shall

IEC 60794-4-10
Breaking strength test tensioned to at least 95% of its occur in any wire
Clause 9.3
RTS. strand.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

Procedure 3 shall be completed

on a 300 mm radius roller, at an Attenuation after the
angle of 90°. test shall not
IEC 60794-1-2
Sheave test exceed 0.2 dB/km
Method E18 The cable shall be tensioned to
the maximum allowable pulling at 1550 nm.
tension specified in Annexure 3.
A sample of OPGW not less
than 50 m and fibre not less Any sign of
than 100 m shall be tensioned permanent damage
to 20% RTS with suitable end to the cable or
fittings. The OPGW shall be attenuation change
IEC 60794-1-2 excited in the vertical plane. greater than 0.2
Aeolian vibration test
Method E19 The test shall be carried out on dB/km at 1550 nm
a range of resonant frequencies shall be considered
in wind ranges 0.5 – 7.0 m/s. a failure.

The MAOC of the optical unit

shall be 20%

Constants a and b
shall be provided
A sample of OPGW shall
along with long time
undergo creep testing to
creep values (10
determine its short / long term.
years)
IEC 61395 Creep The test shall be completed at
A log-log report of
20°C (and also preferably at
elongation versus
40°C) with a test load of 20%
time (up to 100,000
RTS.
h) shall also be
provided.

A sample of OPGW shall be

visually inspected and a base
attenuation value determined at
the initial temperature. No physical
damage to the
The OPGW shall be put
cable shall occur
IEC 60794-1-2 through the temperature cycle
Temperature cycling and attenuation
Method F1 and test the fibres tested for
shall be less than
attenuation at completion.
0.2 dB/km at
The cable shall be tested using 1550 nm
the parameters specified for
Allowable Temperature Range
in Annexure 3.

A sample of OPGW with one

No water shall be
IEC 60794-1-2 Water penetration end of the optical tube sealed
detected at the
Method F5B shall be submerged in 1 m of
unsealed end.
water for 24 hours at 20±5°C.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

The OPGW shall be short

Attenuation shall
circuit tested with an initial
not exceed
temperature of 40° and a final
0.2 dB/km at
temperature as specified for
1550 nm during any
Max Short Circuit Temp. in
IEC 60794-1-2 stage of the test.
Short circuit Annexure 3.
Method H1
No physical
The test current intensity/
damage shall occur
duration shall be equivalent to
to any part of the
the I²t characteristic of the
OPGW
OPGW.

Attenuation shall
not exceed
A sample (no less than 1 m) 0.2 dB/km at
shall be tensioned to 20% RTS 1550 nm.
IEC 60794-1-2 at 23±5°C and subjected to the
Lightning test highest Class category the The calculated
Method H2
OPGW can successfully pass residual strength of
the test. the OPGW shall be
at least 75% of the
original RTS

5.3.1.4 Optical fibres

The following type tests (in accordance with ITU-T G.650.1 / ITU-T G.652) shall be completed
on the fibre optics supplied as part of the OPGW.

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

The mode field diameter shall Nominal Value

ITU-T G.650.1 be determined from one of the 8.6 – 9.5 μm
Mode field diameter
Clause 5.1 methods illustrated in G.650.1 Tolerance
at the wavelength 1310 nm ±0.6 μm

Cladding diameter The fibre shall be tested 125±1 μm

according to one of the two
ITU-T G.650.1 methods illustrated in G.650.1
Clause 5.2 Core concentricity error and the geometric Max. 0.6 μm
characteristics determined
Cladding non-circularity accordingly. Max. 1.0%

The shortest wavelength at

which a single mode can
ITU-T G.650.1
Cable cut-off wavelength propagate in the fibre shall be Max. 1260 nm
Clause 5.3
determined using one of the
methods illustrated in G.650.1

Optical fibre attenuation

The attenuation coefficient 0.4 dB/km
(at 1310 nm)
ITU-T G.650.1 shall be determined at the two
Clause 5.4 wavelengths at ambient
Optical fibre attenuation temperature. 0.3 dB/km
(at 1550 nm)

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

The maximum zero-dispersion

slope coefficient shall be
ITU-T G.650.1 determined over the following S0max 0.092
Chromatic dispersion
Clause 5.5 ps/nm² x km
range λ0min 1300 nm, λ0max
1324 nm.
The performance of the fibre
Max. loss at
ITU-T G.650.1 under a curvature radius
Macrobend loss 1625 nm shall
Clause 5.6 30 mm and 100 turns shall be
be 0.1 dB
determined.
The tensile stress/strain at
ITU-T G.650.1 which the full length of fibre
Proof stress ≥ 0.69 GPa
Clause 5.7 can be subjected to shall be
provided.
A statistical upper limit for the
ITU-T G.650.2 PMDQ with a link of 20 fibres Max. PMD0.01
PMD coefficient
Clause 5.1 and a probability level of 0.01% 0.2 ps / km
shall be provided.

5.3.2 Optical tube filling compounds

The following type tests (in accordance with IEC 60794-4, clause 6.3) shall be completed on
the filling compound within the fibre optic tube, supplied as part of the OPGW.

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

The compound shall be heated

The oil shall not
to its clarity point and stirred.
extend by more
IEC 60811-5-1 One case of the angle box than 5 mm into
Oil separation
Clause 5 shall be filled with the molten the unfilled
compound and put through a central part of
heat cycling process. the box

Two metal strips (copper and

aluminium) shall be cleaned The metal strip
IEC 60811-5-1
Corrosive compounds and placed into a approx. shall show no
Clause 8
120 g of the compound heated corrosion
to 80±2°C and left for 14 days.

The compound shall be tested The drop point

IEC 60811-5-1 as per either Method A or B as shall be greater
Drop point
Clause 4 described in Clause 4 of than the
IEC 60811-5-1 specified value

Any insulating materials (in

contact with the filling
compound) shall be have three The increase
(3) samples placed in approx. in weight shall
IEC 60811-4-2 200 g of pre heated compound not exceed the
Increase in weight
Clause 11 at a temperature of either value specified
60±2°C or 70±2°C (depending for the particular
on the drop point of the material
compound) and shall remain
there for 240 hours.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

5.3.3 Sample/factory acceptance tests

The following sample tests (in accordance with IEC 60794-4-10, clause 10) shall be
performed. The sample / factory tests may be carried out at the manufacturer’s testing
facilities provided the facilities are pre-qualified by Endeavour Energy’s Chief Engineer to
perform the tests. The pre-qualification requires an inspection of the manufacturer’s factory
and the testing facility by a nominee of the Chief Engineer.

These tests shall be completed (at a minium) on one (1) drum from every production run of
OPGW supplied to Endeavour Energy, or on 10% of all drums, whichever rate provides the
largest number of samples.

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

A sample (no less than 1 m)

shall be taken from the
- Weight of OPGW
completed OPGW and
measured on a scale.
Shall be
according to the
A 1 m sample from the original design
completed OPGW shall be characteristics
tested in accordance with (including any
IEC 60468 to an accuracy of specified
- DC resistance of OPGW
one part in a thousand at a tolerances)
temperature between 10 and
30 °C. The measured value
shall be corrected to 20 °C

A sample of OPGW shall be No factures

IEC 60794-4-10
Breaking strength test tensioned to at least 95% of its shall occur in
Clause 9.3
RTS. any wire strand.

5.3.4 Routine tests

The following routine tests may be carried out at the manufacturer’s testing facilities provided
the facilities are pre-qualified by Endeavour Energy’s Chief Engineer to perform the tests. The
pre-qualification requires an inspection of the manufacturer’s factory and the testing facility by
a nominee of the Chief Engineer.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

5.3.4.3 Completed OPGW

The following tests (in accordance with IEC 60794-4-10, clause 11) shall be completed on
every drum of OPGW supplied to Endeavour Energy.

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

Visual inspection of the cross-

OPGW cross-
section of the OPGW shall
section
- OPGW design confirm it is according to the
according to
original design (i.e. location /
design
number of strands)
No loose or
protruding
The outside of the OPGW shall strands and no
- Quality of OPGW surface
be visually inspected damage to the
outer surface of
the OPGW

Diameter of completed Measure the diameter of the Shall be

-
OPGW completed OPGW according to the
original design
Measure the diameter/ (including any
Diameter/thickness of specified
- thickness of the extruded
extruded aluminium tube tolerances)
aluminium optical tube

A sample (of at least 5 m) shall

have its fibres removed and
the length of both the sample The fibre
and fibres measured. excess length
shall be greater
- Fibre excess length The Fibre Excess Length shall than the original
be calculated as following: design
specification.
Fibre Length - OPGW Length
OPGW Length

ITU-T G.650.1 Optical fibre attenuation

The attenuation coefficient for 0.4 dB/km
Clause 5.4 (at 1310 nm)
each fibre shall be determined
or
at the two wavelengths at
AS/NZS 14763.3 Optical fibre attenuation ambient temperature. 0.3 dB/km
Clause 9.1.2 (at 1550 nm)

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5.3.4.4 Stranded wires (before stranding)

The following tests (in accordance with AS 3607:1989) shall be completed on the individual
strands of wire used in the OPGW construction prior to the assembly of the OPGW.
Dimensions and ultimate tensile strength tests shall be completed on specimens taken from
the first and every tenth spool of wire prepared for loading on to the stranding machine. All
other tests (except the lay ration test) shall be completed on 10% of the specimen selected.
The lay ration test shall be completed at the beginning and end of each production run.
If a specimen fails any of these tests, that test shall be repeated on two (2) further specimens
taken from the same spool. If either of these fails, the spool shall be rejected and the five (5)
spools produced sequentially before and after the rejected spool shall be individually tested.

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

The diameter of each sample

AS 3607 Annexure 1
Dimensions shall be measured and be
Clause 4.2.1 Table 2.1
within the following limits
Annexure 1
Tables 2.2, 2.3,
The breaking load shall be 2.4 and 2.7.
tested in accordance with
AS 1391. Non standard
AS 3607 conductors shall
Ultimate tensile strength
Clause 4.2.2 The UTS shall be calculated on have a
the basis of the actual minimum UTS
cross-sectional area of the wire corresponding
before testing. to the next
larger strand of
wire size.

The distance between gauge

marks shall be measured and
AS 3607 Percentage of elongation at
the minimum percentage Annexure 1
Clause 4.2.3 break
elongation calculated Table 4.3
according to of AS 1391
The samples shall be gripped
at both ends, with a small Minimum of 20
tensile force (< 2% of the twists to
AS 3607 Torsion test breaking load). One of the breakage on a
Clause 4.2.4 (aluminium-clad strands only) clamps shall be twisted until length 100
breakage occurs. The test shall times the wire
be completed according to diameter.
AS 2505.5
The tests shall be carried out
according to the requirements
Wrapping test of AS 2505.5. Each specimen
AS 3607 Annexure 1
(aluminium and aluminium alloy shall be wrapped / unwrapped
Clause 4.2.5 Table 4.5
strands only) around a wire of its own
diameter (not exceeding 60
turns a minute).

> 5% of the
The thickness of the aluminium
AS 3607 Thickness of al-cladding stranded
shall be measured (with an
Clause 4.3.3 (aluminium-clad strands only) diameter of the
accuracy of 0.02 mm).
steel wire

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Test reference Test name Test description Pass criteria

AAC 1350
Each specimen shall be tested - 0.0283 μΩ.m
in accordance with IEC 60468 AAAC 1120
to an accuracy of one part in a - 0.0293 μΩ.m
AS 3607
Resistivity test thousand at a temperature
Clause 4.4 AAAC 6201A
between 10 and 30 deg. C
measured value shall be - 0.0328 μΩ.m
corrected to 20 deg. C ACS (AC)
- 0.085 μΩ.m

Annexure 1
The lay ratio (of the conductor
Table 3.1 or
AS 3607 under tension) shall be
Lay ratio test according to the
Clause 4.5 checked at the beginning and
original design
end of each production run.
specification

5.3.4.5 Stranded wire (special tests)

Special tests as described in AS 3607, clause 4.1.3 are not required as part of this
specification.

5.4 Mechanical/electrical requirements

The OPGW shall meet the following criteria in relation to mechanical/electrical performance:

OPGW mechanical attributes

Attribute Detail Value
All layers Alternating
Lay direction
Outer layer Left hand lay
Strand Diameter Minimum 2.5 mm
Short circuit rating (ambient 40°C) Minimum 250 kA²s

The OPGW will typically be strung above a range of phase conductors and used in both new
overhead line designs and refurbishment projects.
In order to ensure that minimum phase to earth clearances between the OPGW and phase
conductors are maintained. The OPGW shall have similar/superior sag characteristics to
ACSR/GZ conductor 30/7/2.5 (Grape), at approximately 18% UTS and 5 deg. C, over the
OPGW’s operating temperature.
The OPGW shall remain within the OPGW’s specified maximum everyday tension limits and
be constructed to minimise the horizontal tension (at the structure), as much as practically
possible.
Joints in the base rod/wire (before final drawing) shall comply with the requirements of clause
3.3 of AS 1531/AS 3607.
All proposed OPGW designs shall provided detailed calculations illustrating the method,
assumptions and limiting factor used to calculate the OPGW short circuit rating.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

5.4.1 Maximum allowable clearance time

The following clause has no implications on the design and/or manufacturing of the OPGW
and shall be used only by Endeavour Energy to determine minimum protection requirements.
The OPGW has been designed with a minimum short circuit capability of 250 kA²s (15.8 kA
for one (1) second) at 40 deg. C.
Fault studies have been completed for a range of typical construction, designs and earthing
parameters. The studies have shown that approximately 70% of the total fault current will flow
through the OPGW close to the source.
Therefore, all feeders with OPGW shall meet the following maximum clearance times
(including whichever of the following create the longest clearance time: auto re-close, circuit
breaker fail or secondary protection operation).

Maximum
Voltage Minimum equipment fault levels Fault level
clearance time
(as in Company Policy 9.2.10)
(kV) (kA) (seconds)
33 33kV network including in ZS 25 0.82
66 66kV network including in ZS 24 0.89
132 132kV in ZS 31.5 0.51
132kV network including in TS
132 40 0.32
(only in proximity to BSP’s)
*Annexure 2 provides the I²t curve for an OPGW based upon the assumptions above.
Clearances times on tower lines with two (2) OHEW’s can be increased from those specified
above. It shall not be assumed that the clearance time can be doubled.
If the maximum clearance times (defined above) cannot be met, the designer shall consult
with the Overhead & Underground Mains manager to determine if an alternative
solution/option is available.

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

5.5 Optical fibre requirements

The optical fibre to be used within the OPGW shall comply with the following requirements (in
accordance with ITU-T G.652, table 4)
5.5.1 Fibre attributes

Attribute Detail Value

Number of fibres Cores 48 or 144
Mode Single mode
Fibre type
Material High grade silica
Buffer Type Loose
Wavelength 1310 nm
Mode field diameter Range of nominal value 8.6-9.5 μm
Tolerance ±0.6 μm
Nominal 125 μm
Cladding diameter
Tolerance ±1 μm
Core concentricity error Maximum 0.6 μm
Cladding noncircularity Maximum 1.0%
Cable cut-off wavelength Maximum 1260 nm
Radius 30 mm
Macrobend loss Number of turns 100
Maximum at 1625 nm 0.1 dB
Proof stress Minimum 0.69 GPa
λ0min 1300 nm
Chromatic dispersion
λ0max 1324 nm
coefficient
S0max 0.092 ps/nm² x km
Max at 1310 nm to 1625 nm 0.4 dB/km
Attenuation coefficient Max at 1383 nm ± 3 nm 0.4 dB/km
Max at 1550 nm 0.3 dB/km
Local point discontinuities Maximum 0.10 dB
M 20 cables
PMD coefficient Q 0.01%
Maximum PMDQ 0.20 ps / km

5.5.2 Protective materials

Information shall be provided stating the physical and chemical properties of any
primary/secondary coatings used to protect the individual fibre cores.
Additional information shall be provided stating the most appropriate method of removing any
protective layers.

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5.5.3 Optical tube filling compounds

The optical tube shall be filled with a suitable compound to avoid water penetration/migration.
The compound shall have the following properties:
• non-hygroscopic
• fungal inhibiting
• electrically non-conductive
• colourless
• homogenous gel
• compatible with all other cable components
• dermatologically safe
• shall not inhibit movement of the fibres within the tube
• be free from air entrapments
• remain pliable and maintain its water resistance characteristics, over the full temperature
range and service life of the OPGW.

A data sheet (including any relevant MSDS’s) specifying the filling compounds properties
shall be supplied as part of the tender.

5.5.4 Colour coding

The fibre cores shall be coloured in accordance with AS/CA S008:2010, Table B7. This table
has been replicated below:

Fibre number Colour

1 Blue
2 Orange
3 Green
4 Brown
5 Grey
6 White
7 Red
8 Black
9 Yellow
10 Violet
11 Pink
12 Aqua

For stranded (multiple) loose tube constructions, the tube colour sequence shall be the same
as the fibre colour sequence above.
Units containing more than 12 fibres can be identified by combining the basic twelve colours
sequence with an added identification (for example, ring marking, dashed mark, tracer or
coloured unit binders).

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5.5.5 Hydrogen effect

The manufacturer shall provide information to demonstrate the mitigation measures that are
in place (in either the OPGW design and/or manufacturing process) to limit the
generation/effect of hydrogen on the optical fibres.

5.6 Drum requirements

The drum(s) shall comply with the requirements of AS 2857 and/or AS 3983. Additionally, as
set out in the requirements of IEC 60794-4-10:2006 the drum shall also meet the following
requirements:

• The OPGW shall be tightly and uniformly wound onto the reel(s) in layers. The supplier
shall specify standard reel length(s) available. Endeavour Energy has a preference for
using reel lengths in the order of 6000m.
• The reels shall withstand normal shipping, handling, storage, and stringing operations
without damage to the cable.
• The reel and inside flanges shall be manufactured in a manner that damage will not occur
to the cable during shipping, handling, storage, and stringing.
• Reels shall have wood lagging attached to the flanges. Lagging shall be attached to reels
so that individual lagging strips will remain in place during normal shipment, handling, and
storage.
• Reel numbers shall be identified in a clear and legible manner on the outside of each
flange on two (2) opposite locations.
• Each reel shall be tagged with two (2) shipping tags. Tags shall be weather resistant. The
following information shall be included:

- Supplier’s name
- Cable description (including the type and number of fibres)
- Endeavour Energy
- Endeavour Energy’s stock code
- Shipping address
- Order number
- Reel number
- Cable lengths
- Gross, tare, and net weight
• The cable ends shall be securely fastened to prevent the cable from becoming loose
during shipment. The inner end of the cable shall be accessible for connection to optical
measuring equipment. This length of cable shall be securely fastened and protected
during shipment.
• A seal shall be applied to each end of the OPGW to prevent the entrance of moisture into
the optical fibres or the escape of filling compound during shipment and storage.
• Each reel shall be marked on the outside flange to indicate the direction the reel should
be rolled during shipment in order to prevent loosening of the cable on the reel.
The manufacturer shall provide (at the time of tender) a copy of the proposed drum
construction drawing(s), as well as a table of standard/maximum shipment lengths available.

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5.7 OPGW line hardware

Information and/or type test reports on suitable line hardware may be included as part of the
tender submission for informative purposes:
• OPGW suspension assembly
• OPGW tension assembly
• OPGW vibration damper
• OPGW Earth lead/clamp Assembly (where it is not incorporated into the suspension/tension
assembly)
6.0 AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chief Engineer shall have the authority and responsibility for:
• Approving technical specifications including any subsequent variations to the
specifications
• Approving the technical compliance of any tender in respect to this Specification
• Approving of type tests performed by a laboratory not recognised by NATA under a
Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with an international testing authority.
• Delegation of any of these authorities and responsibilities to the Manager Network
Engineering
The Manager Network Engineering shall have the authority and responsibility for:
• Reviewing technical specifications and making recommendations to the Chief Engineer
• Making recommendations concerning compliance in respect to this Specification
• Acceptance and approval of all test reports to be submitted as specified within this
document.
The Overhead & Underground Mains Manager shall have the authority and responsibility
for:
• Reviewing/accepting type test reports submitted on all proposed OPGW constructions.
The Transmission Mains Development Manager/Strategic Category Manager shall have
the authority and responsibility for:
• Determination of lengths and quantities of cables to be purchased under this contract.
• Ordering of all cables under this contract.
• Project management/scheduling of each of the orders/deliveries.

7.0 DOCUMENT CONTROL

Documentation content coordinator: Overhead & Underground Mains Manager
Documentation process coordinator: Branch Process Coordinator

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Annexure 1: AS 3607:1989 tables

Tolerance on measurements, with reference to

standard diameter
Standard diameter
Material Ovality
(mm)
(Difference between
Mean Diameter
max. and min. at same
cross-section)

Aluminium and
All Diameters ±1% 2%
aluminium alloy

≤ 2.5 ±0.04 mm 3%
Aluminium-clad steel
> 2.5 ±1.5% 3%

Table 2.1 - Tolerance on diameter of wires

Diameter
Minimum Max d.c.
Cross- Minium
Mass per ultimate resistance
sectional breaking
Std. Max. Min. km* tensile per km at
area* load*
strength 20°C

mm mm mm mm² kg kN MPa Ω
1.75 1.768 1.733 2.405 6.49 0.445 185 11.8
2.50 2.525 2.475 4.909 13.3 0.859 175 5.76
2.75 2.778 2.723 5.940 16.0 1.01 170 4.75
3.00 3.030 2.970 7.069 19.1 1.20 170 4.00
3.25 3.283 3.218 8.296 22.4 1.37 165 3.41
3.50 3.535 3.465 9.621 26.0 1.59 165 2.94
3.75 3.788 3.713 11.04 29.8 1.77 160 2.56
4.75 4.798 4.703 17.72 47.8 2.84 160 1.60
*Tabulated values are based on the standard diameters given in Column 1 and are given for information only.

Table 2.2 – Properties of aluminium 1350 wires

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Diameter
Minimum Max d.c.
Cross- Minium
Mass per ultimate resistance
sectional breaking
Std. Max. Min. km* tensile per km at
area* load*
strength 20°C

mm mm mm mm² kg kN MPa Ω
2.5 2.525 2.475 4.909 13.3 1.23 250 5.97
2.75 2.778 2.723 5.940 16.0 1.49 250 4.93
3.00 3.030 2.970 7.069 19.1 1.77 250 4.14
3.25 3.283 3.218 8.298 22.4 2.07 250 3.53
3.5 3.535 3.465 9.621 26.0 2.31 240 3.05
3.75 3.788 3.713 11.04 29.8 2.65 240 2.65
4.75 4.798 4.703 17.72 47.8 4.08 230 1.65
*Tabulated values are based on the standard diameters given in Column 1 and are given for information only.

Table 2.3 – Properties of aluminium alloy 1120 wires

Diameter
Minimum Max d.c.
Cross- Minium
Mass per ultimate resistance
sectional breaking
Std. Max. Min. km* tensile per km at
area* load*
strength 20°C

mm mm mm mm² kg kN MPa Ω
3.00 3.030 2.970 7.069 19.1 2.09 295 2.46
3.50 3.535 3.465 9.621 26.0 2.84 295 3.41
3.75 3.788 3.716 11.04 26.8 3.26 295 2.97
4.75 4.798 4.703 17.72 47.8 5.23 295 1.85
*Tabulated values are based on the standard diameters given in Column 1 and are given for information only.

Table 2.4 – Properties of aluminium alloy 6201A wires

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Diameter
Minimum Max d.c.
Cross- Minium
Mass per ultimate resistance
sectional breaking
Std. Max. Min. km* tensile per km at
area* load*
strength 20°C

mm mm mm mm² kg kN MPa Ω
1.60 1.640 1.560 2.011 13.3 2.69 1340 42.3
1.75 1.790 1.710 2.405 15.8 3.22 1340 35.3
2.25 2.290 2.210 3.976 26.2 5.33 1340 21.4
2.50 2.540 2.460 4.909 32.4 6.58 1340 17.3
2.75 2.791 2.709 5.940 39.1 7.96 1340 14.3
3.00 3.045 2.955 7.069 46.6 9.47 1340 12.0
3.25 3.299 3.201 8.296 54.7 11.1 1340 10.2
3.50 3.553 3.448 9.621 63.4 12.6 1310 8.83
3.75 3.806 3.694 11.04 72.8 14.0 1270 7.70
*Tabulated values are based on the standard diameters given in Column 1 and are given for information only.

Table 2.7 – Properties of aluminium-clad (AC) wires

Number of wires Lay ratio of steel core Lay ratio of aluminium / aluminium alloy layers
Aluminium 6-wire 12-wire 6-wire 12-wire 18-wire 24-wire
or layer layer layer layer layer layer
Steel
aluminium
alloy Min Max Min Max Min Max Min Max Min Max Min Max

3 4 12* 18* - - - - - - - - - -
4 3 12* 18* - - - - - - - - - -
6 1 - - - - 10 14 - - - - - -
6 7 13 28 - - 10 14 - - - - - -
18 1 - - - - 10 16 10 14 - - - -
30 7 13 28 - - - - 10 16 10 14 - -
54 7 13 28 - - - - 10 17 10 16 10 14
54 19 13 28 12 24 - - 10 17 10 16 10 14
*The lay rations for 3/4 and 4/3 strandings are those for the composite conductor

Table 3.1 – Lay ratio for aluminium and aluminium alloy conductors, steel reinforced

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Minimum ultimate percentage elongation in 250 mm, for wires of

specified diameter range
Material
> 1.5 ≤ 2.50 > 2.5 ≤ 3.25 > 3.25 ≤ 4.00 > 4.00 ≤ 4.75
mm mm mm mm
Aluminium 1350 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4
Aluminium alloy 1120 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4
Aluminium alloy 6201A - 3.0 3.0 3.0
Aluminium-clad steel (AC) 1.0 1.0 1.3 1.5

Table 4.3 – Ultimate elongation of wires

Test schedule number of

Acceptance criteria
Material turns
On Off On
Aluminium 1350 8 6 6 Shall not break
Aluminium alloy 1120 8 - - No surface fracture
Aluminium alloy 6201A 8 - - No surface fracture
Aluminium-clad steel (AC) N/A N/A N/A -

Table 4.5 – Wrapping test

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Annexure 2: I²t Curve (250 kA²s)

100
Maximum Allowable Fault Duration (seconds)

10

0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Fault Level (kA)

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OPGW – Optical Ground Wire Amendment No: 0

Annexure 3: Technical schedule: OPGW

1. General cable details

Item code

OPGW description

Type test report #

2. Manufacturing details

Name of manufacturer

Plant address
(please indicate if the product
is manufactured in more than
one location/plant)

Contact details
(representative name /
position/email/phone)

3. Mechanical/electrical Details

Parameter Details Unit

Conductor material/grade -

Conductor stranding #/mm

OPGW cross sectional area mm2

Optic tube inner diameter/thickness mm

OPGW diameter mm

Load bearing cross section mm2

Lay direction of outer layer -

Lay length -

Ultimate OPGW tensile strength kN

Maximum everyday tension % UTS

Maximum allowable tension KN

Maximum allowable pulling tension KN

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OPGW – optical ground wire Amendment no. 0

Rated tensile strength kN

Strain margin point % UTS

Total mass Kg/km

Maximum cable reel length m

Coefficient of linear expansion x10-6/deg. C

Electrical resistance (at 20°C) Ω.km

Short circuit rating (ambient 40°C) kA²s

Short circuit calculation method
Yes/No
attached

Maximum short circuit temperature deg. C

Allowable temperature range

deg. C
(during installation/transport/storage)

Minimum bending radius

mm
(during installation)

Minimum bending radius

mm
(installed)

Calculated creep value -

Drop point of optical tube filling

°C
compound

4. Optic fibre details

Parameter Details Unit

Number of fibres #

Optical fibre type -

Fibre excess length -

Maximum allowable temperature of

deg. C
optical fibres

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