Grid Infrastructure Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering transmission, distribution, and substation grid infrastructure components based on the lecture notes.

Grid Infrastructure Overview

The system framework encompassing Transmission, Distribution, and Substation / OEM components.

Transmission

High-voltage power moving long distances from power plants to substations.

Lineman Grade Tools

Tools used by utility crews to safely install and maintain transmission lines, or specialized insulated tools used by distribution line workers.

Vibration Dampeners

Weights attached to conductors that reduce vibration caused by wind, preventing wire fatigue and breakage.

Quadri*Sil® Insulators

Insulators that keep the energized conductor separated from the tower structure so electricity stays on the line.

Suspension Assemblies

Hardware that hangs and supports conductors from transmission towers while allowing some movement.

Deadend Assemblies

Assemblies that terminate and anchor conductors.

Jumper Assemblies

Hardware that maintains electrical continuity where the line changes direction or at substations.

Center Break Vee Switches

Visible disconnect switches used to isolate sections of the transmission system for maintenance.

Anchors & Foundations

Structures that secure transmission towers and poles to the ground so they can withstand wind, ice, and conductor tension.

Distribution

Low-voltage system delivering power from substations to homes and businesses.

Reclosers

Smart circuit breakers that automatically restore power after temporary faults such as tree branches or lightning strikes.

Surge Arresters

Devices that protect equipment from dangerous voltage spikes caused by lightning or switching events.

Polymer Cutouts

Fuse devices that disconnect equipment when a fault occurs and visibly drop open to show a fault.

Hot Line Clamps

Clamps that allow crews to safely connect, disconnect, or bypass energized conductors.

Insulators

Components that keep energized wires isolated from poles and crossarms.

Underground Enclosures

Vaults or boxes that provide access to underground electrical equipment and cable connections.

Machine Bolt

Structural hardware used to attach equipment and components to utility poles.

Automatic Splices

Components that connect conductors together and maintain electrical continuity without manual crimping.

Fiberglass Brackets

Brackets that support electrical equipment on poles while providing mechanical strength and electrical insulation.

Gas Utility Solutions

Products used by natural gas utilities for infrastructure protection, monitoring, and access.

AIS Switch

Air Insulated Switchgear switch used to control power flow.

Motor Operators

Devices that allow remote opening and closing of switches.

Sectionalizing Cabinets

Underground switching cabinets that isolate portions of a distribution feeder to reduce outage impact.

Equipment Enclosures

Protective buildings or cabinets that house electrical and control equipment.

Control & Relay Panels

The brains of the substation that monitor the system and issue commands when faults occur.

High Voltage Switches

Switches that open or close circuits to isolate equipment for maintenance or operational control.

Bushings

Insulated pathways that allow conductors to pass safely through grounded equipment such as transformers.

Station Class Arresters

Heavy-duty surge arresters designed to protect expensive substation equipment like transformers from overvoltage events.

Big Five T&D Categories

The five main functional categories for transmission and distribution equipment: Protection, Switching, Insulation, Mechanical Support, and Control Systems.