ABSTRACT
Wind, fungi, ultraviolet light, tree branches, whole trees, and animals of various sizes—each of these can stress overhead distribution lines, electrically and/or mechanically. In this chapter, we explore several programs or options that utilities use to maintain and/or improve the performance of their distribution infrastructure. Poles, conductor, and line hardware all have long life, often exceeding 50 years, but many utilities have aging infrastructure. The deterioration and replacement of equipment must be monitored and managed to continue providing safe, reliable service.
