PLS-CADD: Power Line Systems – Computer-Aided Design & Drafting

1. Training Introduction

PLS-CADD is a leading software suite for designing, analyzing and optimizing overhead transmission lines and power systems. It enables engineers to conduct structural analysis, mechanical design, and optimization of power lines, integrating terrain data, weather effects and regulatory requirements.

This programme equips participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on skills to efficiently use PLS-CADD for designing transmission lines, optimizing conductor and tower configurations, and performing safety and reliability assessments.

 

2. Training Objective

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the fundamentals of overhead power line design.
2. Navigate and use PLS-CADD software for modeling and analysis.
3. Perform mechanical and electrical analysis of transmission lines.
4. Conduct tension, sag, and clearance calculations.
5. Optimize tower and conductor selection for cost and reliability.
6. Evaluate line performance under environmental conditions.
7. Develop actionable line design and optimization projects using PLS-CADD.

 

3. Targeted Group

This programme is suitable for:

• Transmission and distribution engineers
• Power system planners and designers
• Structural engineers in energy sector
• Utility project managers and technical staff
• Graduate students in electrical or civil engineering
• Consultants and contractors involved in power line projects

 

4. Course Duration

• Total Duration: 8 Weeks
• Weekly Commitment: 16 Hours (Lectures + Labs + Exercises)

Total Learning Hours: ~40–45 hours

 

5. Training Methodology

Blended approach combining:

• Instructor-led theoretical sessions
• Hands-on PLS-CADD software training
• Case studies of real-world transmission line projects
• Terrain modeling, conductor and tower configuration exercises
• Group workshops and problem-solving tasks
• Capstone project integrating full transmission line design

Assessment includes quizzes, software exercises, assignments, and a final capstone project.

 

6. Course Modules & Content

Module 1 — Introduction to Power Line Design & PLS-CADD

• Overview of overhead line design principles
• Software interface and navigation
• Project setup and data input
• Understanding design codes and standards

Activity: Create a sample project in PLS-CADD

 

Module 2 — Terrain Modeling & Alignment

• Importing and processing terrain data
• Alignments and profile generation
• Clearance analysis for obstacles and regulations
• Terrain optimization for line routing

Hands-On: Generate terrain model and line profile

 

Module 3 — Conductor & Insulator Modeling

• Types of conductors and insulators
• Conductor properties, sag-tension, and thermal ratings
• Insulator selection and string configuration
• Environmental and mechanical loading considerations

Exercise: Model conductor and insulator in a PLS-CADD project

 

Module 4 — Tower Design & Optimization

• Tower types and configurations
• Structural analysis under load conditions
• Tower placement and foundation considerations
• Cost and performance optimization

Lab: Design and analyze towers for a sample line

 

Module 5 — Mechanical Analysis & Safety Calculations

• Sag and tension calculations
• Load cases: wind, ice, temperature variations
• Clearances and safety margins
• Dynamic analysis of line behavior

Workshop: Perform mechanical analysis on a modeled transmission line

 

Module 6 — Electrical Analysis & Line Performance

• Electrical parameters and line rating calculations
• Voltage drop and line losses
• Short-circuit considerations
• Integration with system planning

Activity: Evaluate electrical performance of a designed line

 

Module 7 — Optimization & Reporting

• Cost optimization of towers, conductors, and alignment
• Scenario analysis for design alternatives
• Automated report generation in PLS-CADD
• Quality assurance and compliance checks

Exercise: Optimize a line design for cost and reliability

 

Module 8 — Capstone Project: Complete Transmission Line Design

• Apply all learned concepts to a real or simulated project
• Terrain modeling, conductor and tower selection
• Mechanical and electrical analysis
• Generate full design report and presentation

Deliverable: Capstone project report and presentation

 

7. Expected Outcomes

Participants completing this programme will:

✔ Navigate and utilize PLS-CADD software effectively
✔ Design transmission lines with optimized tower and conductor configurations
✔ Perform mechanical and electrical analysis
✔ Conduct sag, tension, and clearance calculations
✔ Integrate environmental and regulatory considerations into line design
✔ Optimize cost and reliability of transmission lines
✔ Present comprehensive line design projects with reports and recommendations

 

8. Certificate of Completion

Participants who:

• Attend at least 80% of sessions
• Complete all module exercises and software assignments
• Submit and present the capstone project

will receive a Certificate of Completion from:

FOTADE Training, Research and Resource Development Centre

Certificate Includes:

• Participant’s Full Name
• Programme Title: PLS-CADD: Power Line Systems – Computer-Aided Design & Drafting
• Duration & Completion Date
• Summary of Skills Acquired
• Official Seal & Signature of Programme Director