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INSTRUCTORS:
Emre Mor
Michael Foster, PE, P.Eng
Paul Mostella, P.E., S.E.
Mohammed Al-Rubaye, P.E.
Aaron Darby
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Electrical Transmission & Substation Structures Conference 2025.
A New Approach to Guyed-V Tower Design (21 minutes)
This presentation explores a novel design methodology developed for the West Fort McMurray 500 kV transmission line, spanning over 310 miles across challenging terrain. Presenters detail how the project team optimized the Guyed-V tower design to balance structural efficiency, live-line maintenance requirements, and foundation constraints. The innovative hybrid approach combined the benefits of traditional Guyed-V and Guyed-V-with-haunch configurations to achieve compact phase spacing and improve load flow. The presentation highlights key engineering decisions involving surge impedance loading, three-dimensional clearance checks, and constructability considerations. Attendees will learn how these design refinements led to cost savings, simplified manufacturing, and reliable performance validated through full-scale testing. This case study shows how integrated structural and electrical collaboration drives technical excellence and resilience in modern transmission projects.
3-D Photogrammetry Solution for a 3-Way Switch Replacement on Lattice (16 minutes)
This session introduces a cutting-edge application of 3D photogrammetry to support the retrofit of a 100-foot lattice tower with a new three-way motor-operated switch. Presenters demonstrate how drone-based imaging and digital modeling solved the challenge of incomplete documentation and limited access in a congested site environment. By generating an accurate digital twin of the existing structure, the team performed precise condition assessments, developed fabrication drawings, and coordinated component replacements with the manufacturer, without requiring tower climbing or outages. The presentation explains how thousands of high-resolution drone images were transformed into an engineering-grade 3D model, enabling safe, efficient, and data-rich project execution. Attendees will gain insight into how 3D photogrammetry enhances asset management, reduces field risk, and accelerates decision-making for complex transmission upgrades.
An Innovative Precast Concrete Foundation Solution for Steel Latticed Towers (20 minutes)
In this presentation, the presenter presents a groundbreaking precast spun concrete foundation system designed to improve constructability and efficiency for lattice steel transmission towers. The new foundation concept replaces traditional cast-in-place piers with a prefabricated, high-strength concrete section paired with a steel adapter for direct tower attachment. The session outlines the structural and geotechnical design process, testing program, and field installation trials conducted in Texas. Attendees will learn about the engineering principles behind the pyramid-style adapter, load testing outcomes, and lessons learned from deployment in variable soil conditions. This innovative approach significantly reduces installation time, minimizes on-site concrete needs, and enhances quality control. The presentation demonstrates how collaboration among engineers, suppliers, and contractors led to a practical, scalable solution for modern transmission infrastructure.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Describe how electrical and structural integration influenced the optimized design of the Guyed-V tower for the West Fort McMurray transmission project.
- Explain the testing and verification process, including clearance checks, load paths, and type testing methods, used to validate the Guyed-V tower configuration.
- Discuss how 3-D photogrammetry and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) were utilized to capture accurate tower geometry and condition data without requiring outages.
- Identify the engineering and construction deliverables enabled by 3-D photogrammetry, including digital twin models, condition assessments, and fabrication drawings.
- Describe the design and testing process for the precast spun concrete foundation and its steel adapter system for lattice towers.
- Explain the field installation process and the lessons learned regarding constructability, tolerances, and collaboration among engineers, contractors, and suppliers.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Utility Engineers
- Structural Engineers
- Consulting Engineers
- Contractors
- Suppliers & Manufacturers
- Researchers & Educators
How to Earn Your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]