What are the three sags associated with a line conductor?

The three sags associated with a line conductor are stringing, maximum, and final.

Stringing sag refers to the initial sag that occurs when the conductor is first placed on the insulators and is subjected to its own weight but not yet impacted by external forces like wind or ice. This is important during the installation process as it allows for adjustments to be made to ensure that the conductor maintains proper clearance and spacing.

Maximum sag refers to the greatest amount of sag that will occur under expected loading conditions, including the weight of the conductor itself as well as any additional loads such as ice accumulation or wind blowing against the line. Understanding maximum sag is critical for ensuring that the conductor does not come into contact with any objects below it and for meeting safety standards.

Final sag is the ultimate sag after the conductor has settled and any initial adjustments have been made. This is the stable positioning that the conductor will maintain during regular operational conditions, taking into account temperature effects and long-term loading scenarios. Accurate measurement and understanding of final sag are crucial for system reliability and longevity.

Recognizing these different types of sags helps engineers and technicians ensure that the conductors are properly installed and functional within their operational parameters.