BS EN IEC 60652:2021

What is BS EN IEC 60652 about?  

BS EN IEC 60652 specifies the methods and procedures of testing supports for overhead lines. 

It applies to the testing of supports and structures of overhead lines. 

Note 1: There is no restriction on the type of material used in the fabrication of the supports which may include, but not be limited to, metallic alloys, concrete, timber, laminated wood and composite materials. 

Note 2: Tests on reduced-scale models of supports are not covered by BS EN IEC 60652. 

Note 3: If required by the client, BS EN IEC 60652 can also be applied to the testing of telecommunication supports, railway/tramway overhead electrification supports, electrical substation gantries, street lighting columns, wind turbine towers, ski-lift supports, etc. 

Who is BS EN IEC 60652 for? 

BS EN IEC 60652  on loading tests for overhead line structures is useful for: 

• Manufacturers of testing supports for overhead lines 
• Test/service providers for overhead line structures 
• Fabricators 
• Installers for overhead line structures 
• Electrical and mechanical engineers 
• Quality testing and compliance authorities 

Why should you use BS EN IEC 60652?  

An overhead power lines are a structure used in electric power transmission and distribution to transmit electrical energy across large distances. An overhead line consists of conductors and ground wires, towers, insulation, hardware, and foundations. For its efficient transmission, the durability of its supports plays a vital role. 

BS EN IEC 60652  on loading tests for overhead line structures gives you support tests to verify the design method and inherent assumptions, the method of member detailing and the quality of fabrication, manufacture and material. It helps installers and service/test providers to follow a standardized test procedure and also maintain a proper record for conducting the loading tests. 

Design tests on full scale prototype supports conducted under BS EN IEC 60651 help: 

• As part of a research and/or development programme in the design of an innovative support 
• To verify compliance of the support design with the specifications (also known as type tests on a prototype support) 
• To develop and/or validate a new design standard or methodology 
• To develop and/or validate new fabrication processes 

Sample tests BS EN IEC 60652 are intended for use either prior to or during the fabrication of the production of a batch of supports to act as a check on the quality of the fabrication, or on the materials being used. 

Adhering to the test methods, analysis and procedures under BS EN IEC 60652 will provide assurance of high mechanical strength of supports to withstand the weight of conductors and wind loads. As a result, you will be able to maintain operational efficiency and avoid incidence of disruption and hazard to any individual or equipment. Moreover, the long service-life of overhead line structures and low maintenance costs will pose as a bright spot for your business.  

What’s changed since the last update?  

BS EN IEC 60652:2021 supersedes BS EN 60652:2004, which is withdrawn. BS EN IEC 60652:2021 includes some technical changes as follows: 

• Title modified, Added reference to CIGRE Brochure 399 
• In Clause 7, added test limitation for wind speed and direction during testing 
• In paragraph 10.5, added load increments for destruction tests 
• In paragraph 10.7, added a requirement for an agreement between client and testing station when testing supports made of creep-sensitive materials 
• In Clause 17, added requirements for sampling procedure to be provided in the test report