Steel Static Shield - Transmission Line Overhead Ground Wire
Lightning strikes can damage electrical lines. Replacement can be costly as
well as inconvenient for your team and electric consumers. A steel static
shield is an overhead electrical wire that protects power and data
transmission lines from lightning. Static shields prevent damage by
directing current away from the transmission cables and sending that energy
into the ground. A transmission line overhead ground wire can help extend
the longevity of your transmission and distribution system.

Overhead Ground Wire for Lightning Protection
A transmission ground wire hangs above power and data transmission cables.
These static shields are so valuable that most electrical transmission and
distribution systems use two overhead ground wires instead of one. In
addition, static shields have a steel core. Since they only carry energy
when struck by lightning, steel is a great material for these wires.
When lightning strikes, it hits the overhead electrical wire instead of the
transmission cables below. The energy enters the steel core of the static
shield and travels along the wire. Like transmission lines, the ground wire
stretches between utility poles and support towers. At each structure, the
wire discharges energy through grounding. Safely directed into the ground,
the lightning's energy cannot damage the power line.
Without a static shield, lightning strikes cause a surge in the amount of
energy in the transmission cables. Those high voltages can create
flashovers between support towers.
Contact Us
Overhead Ground Wire Specifications for Electric Utilities
At Bekaert, we manufacture overhead electrical wire products that meet your
exact specifications. Our American manufacturing facilities are flexible,
and we can produce your steel static shields in your region upon request.
Bekaert has full control over our manufacturing process to ensure the
quality of your custom strands. Specifications available for our steel
transmission ground wires include:
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Wires per strand
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Minimum breaking strength
Coating Options
We offer several corrosion-resistant coating options for all Bekaert steel
wire products. Many of our clients choose Class A and Class B zinc
galvanization. We also provide Class C galvanization. For increased
protection from corrosion, Bekaert developed Bezinal® — a zinc-aluminum
alloy coating that performs well in these applications.
Benefits of Overhead Ground Wire Lightning Protection for Electric Utilities
Using ground wire for lightning protection of electric utility systems has
several benefits. Static shield wire can act as a solution for special
conditions. In addition, the steel cores increase their breaking strength,
which makes overhead ground wires ideal for systems that experience ice
loading and heavy winds. Ground wires also reduce line losses by preventing
damage. If transmission cables avoid damage, they need fewer replacements
and less maintenance. As a result, installing static shields can be a
cost-effective, sustainable choice for your electrical system.
Why Choose Bekaert?
Experience the many advantages of partnering with Bekaert for your
transmission ground wire. One of those benefits is our extensive experience
in this industry. We've been in business for almost 140 years, and during
that time, we've maintained full control over our manufacturing process. As
a result, we have the flexibility to produce steel wire products in any
shape or composition you request and always to your exact specifications.
We can also manufacture your order locally.
In the event of damage, Bekaert offers exceptional storm response services.
Our clients enjoy expert support for all of our transmission line products
and solutions.
Call +1 404-201-0223
request more information