Overhead Distribution System Design

The course introduces the fundamental concepts of electrical overhead distribution systems and design. Based on the student’s previous working experience and education, and knowledge from the first course in the microcredential (Fundamentals of Distribution Design), it provides an overview of electrical overhead distribution systems and develops concepts of overhead distribution design. Topics include components, design considerations, standards, conductors, pole types, pole calculations, transformers, grounding, loads (residential, commercial, industrial), applications, and safety and economical considerations. Software tools will be used for modeling and simulation throughout this course.​

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Identify components of an overhead distribution system
• Explain the requirements of an overhead distribution system (design considerations)
• Discuss the economical, environmental, and technical aspects of different overhead distribution systems
• Explain the process for overhead distribution system design
• Identify standards relevant to overhead distribution design
• Select pole type (pole calculation, stress) for a given application
• Select conductor characteristics, such as configuration, size, designation, material, and insulators for different applications
• Discuss cable tension considerations
• Select overhead distribution system transformer size
• Discuss different methods of overhead distribution system grounding
• Describe load types and load requirements
• Design a simple overhead distribution system
• Analyze a simple overhead distribution system using available software
• Discuss safety issues relevant to overhead distribution design

The Distribution Design for Electrical Utilities Microcredential program was created to meet the increasing need for distribution design specialists. This program will provide students with the industry-specific knowledge needed to start a career in electrical utility distribution design. These courses will provide critical skills related to the design of equipment, which will allow Canada to move towards the electrification of transportation and inclusion of small wind and solar resources in the grid.

• Electrical Utility Distribution Design Fundamentals
• Underground Distribution System Design