Meteorological measurement data for industrial plants and overhead line monitoringDynamic Line Rating (DLR) in particular - efficient use of electricity grids

Industrial plants and emissions are subject to strict environmental regulations. The measurement and evaluation of gases, flows and waste heat are just as important as the recording of meteorological parameters. In addition, the importance of overhead line monitoring/dynamic line rating (DLR) is increasing. DLR enables the dynamic monitoring and optimization of the load-bearing capacity of power lines in real time and thus ensures more efficient use of the infrastructure in variable weather conditions.

(C) Wilmers Messtechnik GmbH

(C) Wilmers Messtechnik GmbH

The measuring stations for weather-dependent overhead line operation are installed at strategic points on overhead lines - so-called hotspots. Typically, sensors are attached to electricity pylons at a height of 15 to 30 meters, as the wind and temperature conditions that determine the heat dissipation of the conductor cables can be recorded undisturbed here.

Dynamic Line Rating (DLR) is an innovative technology that makes it possible to determine the dynamic load capacity of overhead lines. Unlike static ratings, which are conservatively designed for the most unfavorable environmental conditions, DLR takes into account the actual environmental factors prevailing at the time in real time. The precise adaptation of power capacity to weather conditions offers considerable advantages:

Grid bottlenecks can be reduced, overloads avoided and the existing infrastructure optimally utilized - a decisive factor in reducing grid expansion costs and ensuring grid stability.In addition to a real-time calculation, it can also be used to calculate a forecast, e.g. to show the electricity load capacity for the following day. Together with a forecast of the expected yields from wind power and photovoltaics, this provides valuable information that contributes to the stable operation of the electricity grids.‎

Factual basis for the DLR sector:

The electrical conductivity of overhead lines depends largely on environmental factors: Wind speed, air temperature and solar radiation influence the temperature of the conductor cables. If this rises above a certain level, the electrical resistance increases, which jeopardizes both the transmission capacity and the safety of the infrastructure. A key feature of DLR is its ability to assess the natural cooling caused by wind and thermal radiation and to adapt the dynamic load capacity of the cables accordingly. Studies show that, on average, DLR can significantly increase the capacity of transmission lines, thereby noticeably improving the efficiency of grids. According to estimates, the increase is often in the range of 20 to 40 %. DLR technologies support the integration of renewable energy by enabling grid operators to feed in significantly more energy from sources such as wind and solar power. It is estimated that curtailments can be significantly reduced, in some cases by a double-digit percentage.

Curtailments‎ refer to the reduced feed-in of electricity from renewable energy sources (e.g. wind and solar energy) when the grid cannot absorb the excess energy. This happens when the electricity grid does not have enough capacity due to overload or grid instability..

Measuring stations, hotspots & automation:
The measuring stations for weather-dependent overhead line operation (WAFB) are installed at strategic points on overhead lines - so-called hotspots. These locations are characterized by high meteorological relevance. Typically, sensors are attached to electricity pylons at a height of 15 to 30 meters, as the wind and temperature conditions that determine the heat dissipation of the conductor cables can be recorded undisturbed here. In some projects, DLR systems also offer the possibility of using AI-supported algorithms that can analyze the measurement data and contribute to improving grid planning. Integration into existing SCADA systems is also possible to ensure seamless integration and automated control.

Reduction of bottlenecks and cost savings:
‎A major advantage of DLR is the reduction of grid bottlenecks at peak load times, when the actual line capacity exceeds the nominal capacity of the line under certain environmental conditions and is optimally utilized. The economic advantage is obvious: higher grid capacity with unchanged grid infrastructure, i.e. no need to build new lines. Estimates suggest savings in the billions per year. As the NOVA principle only allows the construction of new lines after existing capacities have been utilized, technologies such as DLR make an important contribution to complying with regulatory requirements for efficient grid use..‎

‎Upgrade with more powerful cables versus DLR:
An alternative to DLR is the use of new cables that are designed for higher loads and offer a better basic capacity. However, such an upgrade requires considerable investment. DLR, on the other hand, optimizes the existing infrastructure by adapting the load on the cables to the weather conditions in real time. This allows the varying cable capacity to be optimally utilized without additional costs for cable replacement.

Conclusion: Dynamic Line Rating offers the opportunity to make power grids smarter, more efficient and safer. By using high-precision overhead line sensors from Thies CLIMA, such as those provided and installed by Wilmers Messtechnik GmbH, overhead lines can be monitored in real time and their dynamic load capacity reliably calculated. The combination of technological progress, regulatory support and economic efficiency makes DLR a crucial component of modern energy grids.

Suitable sensors for Dynamic Line Rating (DLR). ‎

Thies CLIMA offers high-precision sensors that have been specially developed for the requirements of weather-dependent overhead line operation (WAFB). These sensors play a central role in the precise determination of environmental parameters that are necessary for calculating the dynamic load capacity of overhead lines.‎

Ultrasonic Anemometer 2D Compact

Area of application:
Detection of wind speed and direction with maximum precision.

Ultra-compact design for easy mast mounting.
Robust design for extreme environments
Precise measurement even with minimal air currents
Data transmission via Modbus interface
Details zu US 2D Compact

CLIMA Sensor US

Area of application:
Combination sensor for several parameters such as wind, temperature and humidity.

Weatherproof design with minimal maintenance requirements
Precise recording of ambient conditions in real time
Versatile integration into DLR systems thanks to standardized protocols
Perfect addition for hotspot measuring stations
Details CLIMA SENSOR US

Sensors and system solutions for the DLR market:

Thies Clima offers sensors and accessories that have proven themselves in the DLR market. High-performance system providers and integrators, such as Wilmers Messtechnik GmbH, also offer customized DLR solutions for end users, for example based on the Ultrasonic 2D Compact from Thies Clima (see application images with thanks to Wilmers).