A transmission tower (colloquially termed an electricity pylon in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe, an ironman in Australia, and a hydro tower in English Canada) is a tall structure, usually a steel lattice tower, used to support an overhead power line. They are used in high-voltage AC and DC systems, and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Typical height ranges from 15 to 55 metres (49 to 180 ft), though the tallest are the 370 m (1,214 ft) towers of a 2700 metres long span of Zhoushan Island Overhead Powerline Tie. In addition to steel, other materials may be used, including concrete and wood.
Four major functions of transmission towers are in use: suspension towers, terminal towers, tension towers, and transposition towers. Some transmission towers combine these basic functions. Transmission towers and their overhead power lines are often considered to be a form of visual pollution. Methods to reduce the visual impact include undergrounding.
Read more about Transmission Tower: Naming, High Voltage AC Transmission Towers, High Voltage DC Transmission Towers, Railway Traction Line Towers, Towers For Different Types of Currents, Assembly, Markers, Special Designs, Tower Functions, Notable Pylons, Gallery
Famous quotes containing the word tower:
“So was produced this tragedy
In a far tower of ivory
Where, O young men, late in the night
All you who drink light and stroke the air
Come back, seeking the night, and cry
To strict Rapunzel to let down her hair.”
—Allen Tate (1899–1979)