Power Line Systems IT’S ALL ABOUT YOUR POWER LINES

Proposed workflow for PLS-CADD

A high-level sample of a proposed workflow for a

typical project in PLS-CADD
IT’S THE SOLUTION
4/16/2021 Power Line Systems, Inc. 1
 IT’S THE SOLUTION

Proposed workflow for PLS-CADD Decision

Process
The intent of this flow-chart is to assist both new and
experienced users of our software with a handy and Process – with subsequent steps - linked to the Subprocess details
general reference for the typical decisions and steps
Process – additional process
needed to develop and model a complete PLS-CADD covered/linked back to other steps
project.
Process – with subsequent steps.
Not necessary on every project
The steps and processes are not exhaustive, and some

KEY:
- Back to Main Process workflow
projects may well require a different sequence to that
proposed in this document.
- Webinar Available for download
Not all steps are mandatory/required for every type of through latest version of PLS-CADD
project.
- YouTube Feature Overview video available
The main process flow can be comfortably printed/plotted
on A0 size paper (47x33"). Although it is expected that this - Technical Note Available at
https://www.powerlinesystems.com/technical-notes
will remain as an electronic PDF file in most cases.

- Sample files available on the PLS online Library

 Yes Optimum Spotting No
XYZ Set
More common, using survey Preferences 12
data, is normally geolocated.
Checking and Modifying the Design
1 It is advised to thoroughly scrutinize the outcomes of any
Section 6.2
automated spotting and stringing processes to ensure the
Start a Choose Optimum design meets the Engineers expectations. All Design Generate Construction
General project Load Master Define Spotting Create / Load Electrical Design Generate Plan & Profile
Open new Project Load Attachments Create 3D Terrain Model Edit / Check Criteria Spotting This can be performed by visual “fly-throughs” in all views, Checks Yes Reports and other
project setup Files Constraints Structure files Aspects Sheets
Create a project directory Type Module? but should be accompanied by more rigorous engineering satisfied? Output files
PFL 7 8 checks. 13 14 15
2 4 5 6
Less common, not Most of these are located in Lines/Reports
geolocated, commonly used Define Project Section 11
for digitizing old designs. Coordinate
System
Section 6.7
3 No Spot Structures String Conductors Sag Conductors

9 10 11
Steps 1 - 3 can be bypassed if you
have a Seed file set-up with all
standard files referenced in.

Power Line Systems 3

 Use PLS-CADD for all your drafting
All drawing sheets auto-update if any model changes are made.
Imperial (U.S.)
BEFORE you begin, ensure the following:
• You have purchased the Optimum Spotting Module.
• Appropriate Criteria defined, in particular:
What o Survey Point Clearances Attach a DXF:
Unit System o Insulator Swing Additional items can be added in to embellish PLS-CADD P&P Sheets. This will allow the Set Page Size
S.I. (N Force) should be o Automatic Sagging drawings to match company/client standards and layout. Page size can now be defined for Drawing Sheets and also now for
used? • Structure models defined and added to Available Structure List and for These include: Reports that are exported as PDF files.
each tower indicate the: • Titleblock or Drawing Frame if needed
o Cost of the structure • North Arrow Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Page Size
S.I. (daN Force) o Indicate if the structure should be considered by the algorithm This is controlled under the: Section 13.2.1
o Indicate which conductor Set to use for determining clearance Drafting/ Attachments/ Attachment Manager
calculations Section 6.6.1
o Define the minimum line angles to be considered
• Ensure that the Spotting Constraints are defined. Set the Pages and Station Range
Catenary Constants Section 14.1 You can build a complete drawing pack for the project and not
just the Plan & Profile Sheets.
How to Sag This can include the addition of:
Conductors? • A Title Page
Select the cable file to be used.
Usually this is lowest cable (so ground clearance controls). • Notes page/s
Tensions Defining and Labeling Circuits and Electrical Phasing in PLS-CADD • P&P Drawing Sheets
In PLS-CADD you can define and label wires into circuits and phases. These labels • Appendix Page/s
This conductor should be intended to match the Conductor Set defined in the are integrated into certain reports, can be used as a display case for the wires,
Available Structure's List. can be part of plan and profile drawing sheets, and used to create phasing This can be coupled with the ability to Inset graphical views and
diagrams. information tables to generate a rich data driven drawing pack.
Sections/ Electric/ Define Circuits & Phases
Equation Stations Section 9.4 You also select the section of the alignment (station coordinates
Which Set Preferences Structures/ Automatic Spotting/ Optimum Spotting/ Select Station Range to
indicate over which length of the Alignment the optimization should be or structure numbers) to be shown in the drawings.
Stations Preferences are set and controlled under the File/Preferences
considered. Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Pages and
should be menu. Station Range
displayed? When you OK the Preferences dialog, all the preference settings,
True Stations Thermal Rating Section 13.2.2.1
are automatically saved in a file named PLS_CADD.ini which is Thermal rating calculations performed by PLS-CADD are based on
located in your WINDOWS directory or in “C:\Users\<user Load imagery through the Web Mapping Service • IEEE Standard 738 (2006 or 2012)
name>\Appdata\Roaming\PLS\pls_cadd.ini”. (WMS) Input parameters in the Optimum Spotting Dialog Box.
• CIGRE Brochure 207
The file name may vary based on the WINDOWS installation. These include the data for:
• CIGRE Brochure 601, or Page Layout
These preferences remain in effect until changed. Drafting/ Attachments/ WMS or it can be • Conductor :- voltage, sag parameters, conductors per phase
• TNSP 2009 You can control what is visible on each Drawing Sheet, and the
File and Directory Mapping accessed through the • Spotting parameters :- Min and Max spans and station spacing interval
Sections/ Thermal Calculations (IEEE, CIGRE and TNSP) relative position and size that each "section" of the drawing
The location of default locations for the directories or library Section 5.2 Drafting/ Attachments/ Attachment Manager • An initial guess of the Ruling Span
Section 10.3.1.3 covers. This gives the User control to meet most Utility or Client
files is mapped here. Normally only need to define the by clicking on the WMS button. • Click OK to run the optimization
Drafting standards and requirements.
Structure Directory, the Cable and Marker Balls Directory Load the imagery through Drafting/ Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Page Layout
and the Part/Assembly Library (.prt file). These servers could be any of the predefined Attachments/ Attachment Manager Section 13.2.2
The Schema file Schema file (.sma) for personal WMS servers or a customised server can be used. and click on the Attach button
customizations such as report or toolbars is also mapped Section 6.6.5 Section 6.6.2 INSPECT THE RESULTS Electro-Magnetic Field Calculations
and selected here. Always review the computer generated results, as the Engineer of Record. Electricity in overhead lines produces an electric field and a magnetic field.
These fields are also called Electro Magnetic Fields or EMF. The Electro
/Station Range Set The Scales...Long-axis plot etc.
Magnetic Field (EMF) is a factor which can be calculated during the design or
No Along the alignment. Linked to Station Once the Page Layout and Paper size has been set, you can
analysis of overhead transmission lines. The EMF calculation may determine
coordinate, and not georeferenced. String & Sag additional conductor sets that were not strung during the control the overall appearance of the P&P drawings under the
width of a Right of Way (ROW) or have a particular limit at the edge of a
Optimization. Scales menu.
Apply a variety of Settings or Mini-Preferences. Right of Row for an overhead line.
This not only controls the actual Scales at which the drawing is
These control a range of attributes or settings from unit Sections/ Add Graphical produced, but allows for the insertion of Grid Lines and various
preferences, coordinates systems, display settings and many Within PLS-CADD there are two distinct options to calculate Electro-
Do you other functions to control the appearance of the Sheets view.
more. Yes Magnetic Field Calculations:
have aerial Optimum Spotting will only string the one designated Conductor Set. It's also possible to select whether or not the view should be a
/ Polygonal Zones Can be linked to the Feature code table to apply • 2D EMF
imagery? Section 10.3.1.3 Long-Axis Plot or not (normally driven by Client Preferences)
Can be a polygon, polyline or point. a "buffer" zone around the constraint. • 3D EMF
Can snap to survey points or be created base (Required Clearance Structure Base/Guy to Completed drawings can be output either as an Exported DXF
Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Scales
don DXF/SHP files. Spotting Constraint) Sections/ Electric/ 3D EMF Calculator or / 3D EMF Along Line
Section 13.2.3
Is georeferenced. Section 6.1 Section 11.2.8
These points can be used to generate survey
Select the Fonts and Colors for various reports and graphics points in the model using the
Terrain/ Edit/ Merge Points from External PLS-CADD can calculate the space potential, electrical field or magnetic field
views generated by the program and control the View at structures. The software will create cross sections at selected structures
background color. File/ Create XYZ or PFL Points from DXF or SHP
Attachment command. and plot contours for the space potential, electrical field or magnetic fields. Add Annotations
Sections/ Electric/ Structure Space Potential Calculator… The drawings can be further embellished with
/ Based on TIN Slopes
Section 11.2.8.3 Annotations to fully portray the granular details
Station based constraints added automatically
of the project.
based on centerline and cross-section slopes.
Attach DXF/SHP files with information on These annotations can be:
obstacles and infrastructure in the project
• Lines • Polygons
extents. Line Constants Calculator • Arrows • Dimensions
DXF files can be 3-dimensional and represent
Feature Code file Criteria file Plan and Profile Sheet display settings Parts and Material file Attach Aerial Imagery PLS-CADD can calculate the following line constants: • Arcs • Text
ground surface or proposed ground surfaces
.fea .cri .pps .prt the resistance, positive sequence inductive reactance, capacitive reactance, • Circles
after construction projects; or could represent impedance magnitude, and phase angle for all sets with a voltage in the Section 13.3
Section 7.1 & 7.3 buildings or other structures. Edit / Check Criteria selected range of spans. Using the
Section 6.1 Section 13.2.5 Section 8.5
Section 6.6.1 Define Spotting Constraints It is recommended that most general Criteria is saved and Sections/ Electric/ Simple Line Constants Calculator
Spotting constraints defined to control loaded into the project under Criteria/ Load CRI file. Section 11.2.10
where structure are or are not allowed. However, there may be some specific things to control on a Inset Views and Tables
Load Attachments
Possible types are: given project, these can include: PLS-CADD can calculate all three symmetrical components (zero, positive and Additional views or data can be placed on the Title, Notes and
Raster or vector attachments can enhance the
• Prohibited Zones negative sequence values) of the line impedance. The software accounts for Appendix pages in the form of Inset Views or Inset Report/Tables
look and feel of the terrain model, but can also
Load Master Files • Extra Cost Zones • Add specific Criteria Notes for the Project ground wires, ground return, and mutual coupling of nearby circuits either on to create a full drafting pack for the project.
provide valuable additional data to clarify and
These are company or client specific master • Required Positions (or Structures) • Set any Code Specific Wind and Terrain Parameters the same structure or span, or a neighboring line sharing a corridor.
contextualize the model.
files to preserve settings and calculations applicable to the project location and Code of practice Sections/ Electric/ Full Line Constants Calculator Many ways to do this, but mainly controlled via:
between projects Structures/ Automatic Spotting/ • Ensure that Cable Tension and Automatic Sagging Section 11.2.11 Drafting/ Inset Views/ Add
Drafting/ Attachments/ Attachment Manager
Spotting Constraints/ Criteria are pointed to the correct instance of the Section 13.5 – 13.8
Section 6.6
conductor .wir files to be used on the project.
Section 6.10.3 & 14.1.4
Section 7.3
Lightning Protection Calculator Output
PLS-CADD can calculate the lightning coverage surface based on the ground Completed drawings can be output either as an Exported DXF
wires of a line. The basis of the calculation is the Electromagnetic Method (EGM) drawing for further manipulation in a drafting package,
which is also known as the Rolling Sphere Method. File/ Export/ DXF
Sections/ Electric/ Lightning Protection Calculator
Section 11.2.12 Or as a PDF file for printing and sharing:

• Can be done either by File/ Print

• or by Right-clicking on the Sheets View tab and selecting Save
as PDF/ To File
Section 13.4

Yes Optimum Spotting No

XYZ Set
More common, using survey Preferences 12
data, is normally geolocated.
Checking and Modifying the Design
1 It is advised to thoroughly scrutinize the outcomes of any
Section 6.2
automated spotting and stringing processes to ensure the
Start a Choose Optimum design meets the Engineers expectations. All Design Generate Construction
General project Load Master Define Spotting Create / Load Electrical Design Generate Plan & Profile
Open new Project Load Attachments Create 3D Terrain Model Edit / Check Criteria Spotting This can be performed by visual “fly-throughs” in all views, Checks Yes Reports and other
project setup Files Constraints Structure files Aspects Sheets
Create a project directory Type Module? but should be accompanied by more rigorous engineering Satisfied? Output files
PFL 7 8 checks. 13 14 15
2 4 5 6
Less common, not Most of these are located in Lines/Reports
geolocated, commonly used Define Project Section 11
for digitizing old designs. Coordinate
System
Section 6.7
3 No Spot Structures String Conductors Sag Conductors

9 10 11
Start a new Project
In the PLS-CADD Project Wizard Dialog, select the radio button to
Create a New Project and select the option to start a PLS- Construction Stringing Charts
CADD/Standard project. Sag Conductors
These charts are needed by Construction crews to install the wires at the correct tensions
Assign the Reference Sagging Condition - by defining:
for different install temperatures to match the design assumptions.
If you have selected to bypass the Wizard, you can click on: • Cable Condition (typically Initial RS)
File/ New/ PLS-CADD • Temperature (typically 60°F or 15-15.5°C) You can generate them using:
• Horizontal Tension (Typically determined by using the automatic sagging function) Sections/ Stringing Chart/ Single Section, or
Section 10.3.2 Sections/ Stringing Chart/ Multiple Sections
Create / Load Structure files Sections 11.2.4
Note: If you plan to use Optimum
String Conductors
Spotting then structures must be either
Method 1 or Method 2 structures. Manual Sagging
The reference sagging condition is defined for each section in
Structure files for use in the project the Section Modify dialog box.
should be added to the Available Only the one single condition is specified which represents KMZ files
Manual Stringing the conditions the wire was constructed at
Structure List It can be very convenient to share the line model and even several types of reports by
This is the original technique to add wires to a model. Section 10.3.2.1 using KML/Z files, as these can be viewed by Google Earth© or other GIS applications.
Sections/ Add or
Create 3D Terrain Model Structures/ Available Structure List/
Add or Delete Structures To export your model as a KMZ (ideally from the 3D View in PLS-CADD), select:
Some limitations:
File/ Export/ KMZ (Google Earth)
• Stringing must be in order of increasing station value.
Section 14.1.5 • Stringing must start and end on a "Dead-End" Set Automatic Sagging
Do you have Multiple sagging/tension rules can be checked as defined in Some of the reports that can be exported to KMZ files are:
• Can only string one section at a time
No PLS-POLE or the Criteria/ Automatic Sagging. • P.I. Report
Section 10.3.1
TOWER? This basically results in the wire being as pulled as tight as it • Construction Staking Report
Do you • Leg and Guy Extension Report
What Material (Parts and Assemblies) should be is allowed - and sets the reference sagging condition
have • Terrain Clearances by Span Report
Yes kind of added in if this needs to be tracked through accordingly.
survey Automatic Stringing • Thermal Rating Report
data? later Bill of Material functions. Section 10.3.2.1.3
data? This technique can speed up the stringing process by • Danger Tree Locator Report
Yes allowing the stringing of all (or selected) Sets in one • Vegetation Work Site Centroids (can also be exported as a SHP file)
Section 8.5
command.
Sections/ Automatic Stringing
No Graphical Sagging
Structure files made in PLS-CADD Structure files made in PLS-POLE or TOWER Some limitations: The sagging rules can be determined based on the mouse
These structures are essentially stick figures. • You can only string one Set type at a time.
These structures are based on finite element coordinates, or on the proximity of the wire to survey
There is no graphical display of the structure • You can string Sets or Sections based on the "Set Structure Loads Report
beyond vertical and horizontal lines that define the models developed in the separate structural points ("shots on the wire").
Raster Description" which can assist in transposing or These detailed loads can be shared with structure designers/suppliers to verify the
Use SRTM Internet Data LiDAR CSV / ASCII DXF / SHP KML / KMZ basic insulator and wire attachment geometry. modelling programs.
Attachment preventing the twisting of wires. structures are fit for purpose.
This technique can be used simplistically with Ruling Span
Appendix F.1 Section 10.3.1.2 methods (RS), but can also be rather accurately used with
Finite Element method (FE) to accurately model As-Built This can be done for a single structure at a time:
wire systems where tensions can vary between spans Structures/ Loads/ Report
Terrain/ Edit/ Merge Points from External File/
within a section.
Graphical Stringing Or for a selected range of structures:
/ Create XYZ / Merge
/ Merge / Merge XYZ / Merge This is the newest and most versatile technique to add Sections/ Graphical Sag, select on a wire section and click Lines/ Reports/ Structure Loads Report
or PFL Points Points from
/ Merge Points from Points from Points from Points from wires to a model. the Options button to use some of the higher level
from DXF or KML/KMZ
Internet… LAS/LAZ User Defined KML/Raster Spot Structures Sections/ Add Graphical techniques, or using the methods in Sections/ Table…
Define Project Coordinate System SHP Files…
Appendix D.3.1 Files… XYZ Files… Attachment… Section 10.3.2.1.4
PLS-CADD has the capability to designate the coordinate system Attachment Appendix D.9
Appendix D.7 Appendix D.3 Appendix D.10 Section 10.2 This allows for the ability to:
used by your project in order to make cartographic calculations. Appendix D.8
• Automatically transpose/untangle wires
You use the Terrain/Coordinate System/Define command to
• String wires between intermediate or skipped Bills of Materials
pick from the thousands of coordinate systems now built into Spot Angle Structures structures. The Bills of Material can be generated if the model includes this data. The material
PLS-CADD. If you need to use a coordinate system not within This makes use of automatic features to place structures at • Can string in any direction (and also to structures not data includes:
PLS-CADD, you can do this by referencing a PRJ file containing a P.I. positions or alternatively at selected Feature Codes. on alignments - XY Based structures) • Material captured for each Structure file
WKT or PROJ string. These tools are:
PLS-POLE and TOWER: • Can string any number of *.wir files and Set numbers • Structure Specific Material - tied to the structure site (such as foundations, signs,
These points can be edited, feature codes changed, etc… using the various Method 1: Basic Allowable Spans Method Structures / Automatic Spotting / Angle Structures at one time.
Once this has been done you may use other commands that rely Point Cloud Loaded Method 1 and 2 files dampers, etc. material described in the Material button of Structure Modify dialog
commands in the Terrain/ Edit menu Strength defined simply by: & • Can apply sagging criteria per set.
on knowing the project coordinate systems. These packages can be used in conjunction with PLS-CADD/Lite and the box).
• Angle range Structures / Automatic Spotting / Spot at Feature Codes • Can also set the Display conditions for the sets being
Wire Load file formats (*.LIC) to make either Method 1 or 2 files for use • Line Specific material for anything more general regarding the line but not
• Horizontal Span (Wind Span) Section 10.2.1 strung.
Section 6.2.1 with Optimum Spotting Algorithms. necessarily tied to a specific location (described in the Line Specific Material button
Create TIN Model to turn ground point cloud into • Vertical Span (Vertical Span) for 3 separate Section 10.3.1.3
The full capability of the models is not lost and can be used for more of Lines Edit dialog box).
conditions can be checked
ground surface detailed analysis at any time • Wire quantities and concentrated loads (such as aerial marker balls)
Once the TIN model is created, ground points can be filtered out/deactivated to • Uplift capacity
F1/ Use method 4 Structure Edit/Check when possible Spot Tangent Structures
reduce the model size Section 8.3.1 & Appendix F.1.4.1
Terrain / TIN/ Create Section 8.3.1 - 2 & Appendix F.2 This is the manual spotting/placing of structures. Cost information for both Material and Labor can be included to enable cost tracking
Section 6.4 PLS-POLE & TOWER Manuals = Section 5.4 of the design. Furthermore, the status of the assets can be included so that life-cycle
Add Jumpers
Standard projects will have structures placed along an alignment Modeling jumpers give you the ability to evaluate tracking and maintenance/replacement activities can be quantified as well.
Create Route Alignment: between P.I. points. clearances from the jumper to structures, ground, other The Bill of Material can be generated by either:
The alignment is needed for most of the Structures/ Add/ Along Alignment jumpers, and other wires. It also allows you to include its Lines/ Reports/ Bill of Material by Structure Location, or
traditional modelling processes. It generates the Section 10.2.2 material in the material tracking and reporting features of Lines/ Reports/ Bill of Material
Method 2: Allowable Spans Interaction Diagram Method Method 4: Detailed Structural Analysis Method
Profile view, which is not available before the the program. Jumpers connect the ahead and back section Appendix M
For added accuracy it is proposed to limit the adding of P.I.’s to snap to selected • An interaction diagram between allowable wind and • PLS-CADD first determines the Loading Tree based on the wires,
alignment is created. It is also possible to place structures independent of alignments of wire attachments and up to seven idler or jumper
Feature codes or DXF file positions. Multiple Alignments can be added, as well as weight spans is defined for certain combinations of weather tensions and design Criteria.
Note: It will be created automatically in a .PFL as XY based structures Structures/ Add/ XY Structure/ insulators. Their cable properties are the same as the back
branches and loops as needed for any particular route needs. and cable conditions. • This is then passed (in the background) to the respective structural
project type (Freehand, Along a Line or at a Survey Point). section of conductor that it is connecting.
• Can produce more economical lines than with Method package.
Section 10.2.8 Jumpers can be Flexible or Rigid.
1 structures, especially when used in conjunction with • After the analysis, results are obtained directly in PLS-CADD to the
Terrain/ Alignment/ New Alignment level of detail required. Structures / Jumpers/ Add Construction Staking Report
automatic spotting.
Section 6.3 You can generate a Construction Staking Report which is relating to the construction of
Section 8.3.2 & Appendix F.1.4.2
This is the most accurate and general structure check technique. Or by clicking on the Jumpers button in the Structure the line. This includes:
Section 8.3.4 & Appendix F.3 Modify Dialog. • The coordinates (either as XY or as Lat/Long) for Stakes , which indicate the field
Spotting multiple copies of a structure Spotting structures at equal spacing Section 10.3.8 location of:
Clearance Line setup: Set the Terrain/: Create Interpolated Points: Once the angle structures are placed, manually placing suspension A further time saving approach is to paste multiple instances of a • poles,
Display the clearance lines as per the correct • / Terrain Widths: Depth of the profile view and This command will add program generated survey structures can be a time consuming and repetitive task. To speed structure file at a specified span length between two station • tower legs
project Voltage Level, Choose if you want to the tolerance for points to be considered as a points directly along the Centerline (and any Side up the placement of structures it is possible to copy and paste coordinates. • Anchors
Display spikes for points with extra clearance (Yes part of the Centerline. Profiles) using the TIN model to provide a very single instances of a structure file. This will allow for the rapid placement of many structures at equal • P.I.’s, and
or No), & Choose the Clearance Line Type • / Side Profiles: location and tolerances and accurate ground profile where needed. Structures/ Copy & span lengths. • reference stakes.
display options for the side profiles Structures/ Paste Structures/ Automatic Spotting/ N-Paste • It can also include up to four different graphical views and
Terrain/ Clearance Line Terrain/ TIN/ Create Interpolated Points Section 10.2.3.1 Section 10.2.3.2 • A material list for each of the structures.
Section 6.10.2 Section 6.3.2 & Section 6.10.1 Section 6.4.4
Lines/ Reports/ Construction Staking Report
Appendix R.3

Power Line Systems 4

 Imperial (U.S.)

What
Unit System
should be S.I. (N Force)
used?

S.I. (daN Force)

Catenary Constants

How to Sag IT’S THE SOLUTION

Conductors?

Tensions

Equation Stations
Set Preferences Which
Preferences are set and controlled under the File/Preferences Stations
menu. should be
When you OK the Preferences dialog, all the preference settings, displayed?
are automatically saved in a file named PLS_CADD.ini which is True Stations
located in your WINDOWS directory or in “C:\Users\<user
name>\Appdata\Roaming\PLS\pls_cadd.ini”.
The file name may vary based on the WINDOWS installation.
These preferences remain in effect until changed.
File and Directory Mapping
Section 5.2 The location of default locations for the directories or library
1 files is mapped here. Normally only need to define the
Structure Directory, the Cable and Marker Balls Directory
and the Part/Assembly Library (.prt file).
The Schema file Schema file (.sma) for personal
customizations such as report or toolbars is also mapped
and selected here.

Apply a variety of Settings or Mini-Preferences.

These control a range of attributes or settings from unit
preferences, coordinates systems, display settings and many
more.

Select the Fonts and Colors for various reports and graphics
views generated by the program and control the View
background color.
Feature Code file Criteria file Plan and Profile Sheet display settings Parts and Material file
.fea .cri .pps .prt

Section 6.1 Section 7.1 & 7.3 Section 13.2.5 Section 8.5

Load Master Files

These are company or client specific master
files to preserve settings and calculations
between projects
IT’S THE SOLUTION
2

Define Project Coordinate System

PLS-CADD has the capability to designate the coordinate system
used by your project in order to make cartographic calculations.
You use the Terrain/Coordinate System/Define command to
pick from the thousands of coordinate systems now built into
PLS-CADD. If you need to use a coordinate system not within
PLS-CADD, you can do this by referencing a PRJ file containing a
WKT or PROJ string.

Once this has been done you may use other commands that rely
on knowing the project coordinate systems.

Section 6.2.1
3
 Load imagery through the Web Mapping Service
(WMS)

Drafting/ Attachments/ WMS or it can be

accessed through the
Drafting/ Attachments/ Attachment Manager
by clicking on the WMS button.
Load the imagery through Drafting/
These servers could be any of the predefined Attachments/ Attachment Manager
WMS servers or a customised server can be used. and click on the Attach button
Section 6.6.5 Section 6.6.2

No

Do you
have aerial Yes
imagery?

These points can be used to generate survey

points in the model using the
Terrain/ Edit/ Merge Points from External
File/ Create XYZ or PFL Points from DXF or SHP
Attachment command.

Attach DXF/SHP files with information on

obstacles and infrastructure in the project
extents.
Attach Aerial Imagery DXF files can be 3-dimensional and represent
ground surface or proposed ground surfaces
after construction projects; or could represent
buildings or other structures.
Section 6.6.1

Load Attachments
Raster or vector attachments can enhance the
look and feel of the terrain model, but can also
provide valuable additional data to clarify and
contextualize the model.

Drafting/ Attachments/ Attachment Manager

Section 6.6
4
 Create 3D Terrain Model

Do you
have What
Yes kind of
survey
data? data?

No

Raster
Use SRTM Internet Data LiDAR CSV / ASCII DXF / SHP KML / KMZ
Attachment

Terrain/ Edit/ Merge Points from External File/

/ Create XYZ
/ Merge / Merge XYZ / Merge / Merge Points
or PFL Points
/ Merge Points from Points from Points from Points from from
from DXF or
Internet… LAS/LAZ User Defined KML/KMZ KML/Raster
SHP
Appendix D.3.1 Files… XYZ Files… Files… Attachment…
Attachment
Appendix D.7 Appendix D.3 Appendix D.9 Appendix D.10
Appendix D.8

These points can be edited, feature codes changed, etc… using the various
Point Cloud Loaded
commands in the Terrain/ Edit menu

Create TIN Model to turn ground point cloud into

ground surface Once the TIN model is created, ground points can be filtered out/deactivated to
Terrain / TIN/ Create reduce the model size
Section 6.4

Create Route Alignment:

The alignment is needed for most of the
traditional modelling processes. It generates the
Profile view, which is not available before the For added accuracy it is proposed to limit the adding of P.I.’s to snap to selected
alignment is created. Feature codes or DXF file positions. Multiple Alignments can be added, as well as
Note: It will be created automatically in a .PFL branches and loops as needed for any particular route needs.
project type
Terrain/ Alignment/ New Alignment
Section 6.3

Clearance Line setup: Set the Terrain/: Create Interpolated Points:

Display the clearance lines as per the • / Terrain Widths: Depth of the profile This command will add program generated
correct project Voltage Level, Choose if view and the tolerance for points to be survey points directly along the Centerline (and
you want to Display spikes for points considered as a part of the Centerline. any Side Profiles) using the TIN model to provide
with extra clearance (Yes or No), & • / Side Profiles: location and tolerances a very accurate ground profile where needed.
Choose the Clearance Line Type and display options for the side profiles
Terrain/ Clearance Line Terrain/ TIN/ Create Interpolated Points
Section 6.10.2 Section 6.3.2 & Section 6.10.1 Section 6.4.4
 /Station Range
Along the alignment. Linked to Station
coordinate, and not georeferenced.

/ Polygonal Zones Can be linked to the Feature code table to apply

Can be a polygon, polyline or point. a "buffer" zone around the constraint.
Can snap to survey points or be created base (Required Clearance Structure Base/Guy to
don DXF/SHP files. Spotting Constraint)
Is georeferenced. Section 6.1

/ Based on TIN Slopes

Station based constraints added automatically
based on centerline and cross-section slopes.

Define Spotting Constraints

Spotting constraints defined to control where structure are or are not
allowed. Possible types are:
• Prohibited Zones
• Extra Cost Zones
• Required Positions (or Structures)

Structures/ Automatic Spotting/ Spotting Constraints/

Section 6.10.3 & 14.1.4
6

Edit / Check Criteria

It is recommended that most general Criteria is saved and
loaded into the project under Criteria/ Load CRI file.
However, there may be some specific things to control on a
given project, these can include:

• Add specific Criteria Notes for the Project

• Set any Code Specific Wind and Terrain Parameters
applicable to the project location and Code of practice
• Ensure that Cable Tension and Automatic Sagging
Criteria are pointed to the correct instance of the
conductor .wir files to be used on the project.

Section 7.3
7
 Create / Load Structure files
Note: If you plan to use Optimum Spotting then structures must be either Method 1
or Method 2 structures.

Structure files for use in the project should be added to the Available Structure List
Structures/ Available Structure List/ Add or Delete Structures
Section 14.1.5
8

Material (Parts and Assemblies) should

be added in if this needs to be tracked
Do you have through later Bill of Material functions.
No PLS-POLE or Yes
TOWER? Section 8.5

Structure files made in PLS-CADD Structure files made in PLS-POLE or TOWER

These structures are essentially stick figures.
These structures are based on finite element
There is no graphical display of the structure
beyond vertical and horizontal lines that define the models developed in the separate structural
basic insulator and wire attachment geometry. modelling programs.
Appendix F.1

PLS-POLE and TOWER:

Method 1: Basic Allowable Spans Method
Strength defined simply by: Method 1 and 2 files
• Angle range These packages can be used in conjunction with PLS-CADD/Lite and the
• Horizontal Span (Wind Span) Wire Load file formats (*.LIC) to make either Method 1 or 2 files for use
• Vertical Span (Vertical Span) for 3 separate with Optimum Spotting Algorithms.
conditions can be checked The full capability of the models is not lost and can be used for more
• Uplift capacity detailed analysis at any time
Section 8.3.1 & Appendix F.1.4.1 F1/ Use method 4 Structure Edit/Check when possible
Section 8.3.1 - 2 & Appendix F.2
PLS-POLE & TOWER Manuals = Section 5.4

Method 2: Allowable Spans Interaction Diagram Method Method 4: Detailed Structural Analysis Method
• An interaction diagram between allowable wind and • PLS-CADD first determines the Loading Tree based on the wires,
weight spans is defined for certain combinations of weather tensions and design Criteria.
and cable conditions. • This is then passed (in the background) to the respective structural
• Can produce more economical lines than with Method package.
1 structures, especially when used in conjunction with • After the analysis, results are obtained directly in PLS-CADD to the
automatic spotting. level of detail required.
Section 8.3.2 & Appendix F.1.4.2
This is the most accurate and general structure check technique.
Section 8.3.4 & Appendix F.3
 Spot Structures

Section 10.2
9
Spot Angle Structures
This makes use of automatic features to place structures at
P.I. positions or alternatively at selected Feature Codes.
These tools are:
Structures / Automatic Spotting / Angle Structures
&
Structures / Automatic Spotting / Spot at Feature Codes
Section 10.2.1

Spot Tangent Structures

This is the manual spotting/placing of structures.

Standard projects will have structures placed along an alignment

between P.I. points.
Structures/ Add/ Along Alignment
Section 10.2.2

It is also possible to place structures independent of alignments

as XY based structures Structures/ Add/ XY Structure/
(Freehand, Along a Line or at a Survey Point).
Section 10.2.8

Spotting multiple copies of a structure Spotting structures at equal spacing

Once the angle structures are placed, manually placing suspension A further time saving approach is to paste multiple instances of a
structures can be a time consuming and repetitive task. To speed structure file at a specified span length between two station
up the placement of structures it is possible to copy and paste coordinates.
single instances of a structure file. This will allow for the rapid placement of many structures at equal
Structures/ Copy & span lengths.
Structures/ Paste Structures/ Automatic Spotting/ N-Paste
Section 10.2.3.1 Section 10.2.3.2
 String Conductors

Manual Stringing
10 This is the original technique to add wires to a model.
Sections/ Add or

Some limitations:
• Stringing must be in order of increasing station value.
• Stringing must start and end on a "Dead-End" Set
• Can only string one section at a time
Section 10.3.1

Automatic Stringing
This technique can speed up the stringing process by allowing the
stringing of all (or selected) Sets in one command.
Sections/ Automatic Stringing

Some limitations:
• You can only string one Set type at a time.
• You can string Sets or Sections based on the "Set Description"
which can assist in transposing or preventing the twisting of
wires.
Section 10.3.1.2

Graphical Stringing
This is the newest and most versatile technique to add wires to
a model.
Sections/ Add Graphical

This allows for the ability to:

• Automatically transpose/untangle wires
• String wires between intermediate or skipped structures.
• Can string in any direction (and also to structures not on
alignments - XY Based structures)
• Can string any number of *.wir files and Set numbers at one
time.
• Can apply sagging criteria per set.
• Can also set the Display conditions for the sets being strung.
Section 10.3.1.3

Add Jumpers
Modeling jumpers give you the ability to evaluate clearances
from the jumper to structures, ground, other jumpers, and other
wires. It also allows you to include its material in the material
tracking and reporting features of the program. Jumpers
connect the ahead and back section of wire attachments and up
to seven idler or jumper insulators. Their cable properties are
the same as the back section of conductor that it is connecting.
Jumpers can be Flexible or Rigid.
Structures / Jumpers/ Add

Or by clicking on the Jumpers button in the Structure Modify

Dialog.
Section 10.3.8
 Sag Conductors
Assign the Reference Sagging Condition - by defining:
• Cable Condition (typically Initial RS)
• Temperature (typically 60°F or 15/15.5°C)
• Horizontal Tension (typically determined by using the automatic sagging function)
Section 10.3.2

11
Manual Sagging
The reference sagging condition is defined for each section in
the Section Modify dialog box.
Only the one single condition is specified which represents
the conditions the wire was constructed at.
Section 10.3.2.1

Automatic Sagging
Multiple sagging/tension rules can be checked as defined in
the Criteria/ Automatic Sagging.
This basically results in the wire being as pulled as tight as it
is allowed - and sets the reference sagging condition
accordingly.
Section 10.3.2.1.3

Graphical Sagging
The sagging rules can be determined based on the mouse
coordinates, or on the proximity of the wire to survey
points ("shots on the wire").

This technique can be used simplistically with Ruling Span

methods (RS), but can also be rather accurately used with
Finite Element method (FE) to accurately model As-Built
wire systems where tensions can vary between spans
within a section.

Sections/ Graphical Sag, select on a wire section and click

the Options button to use some of the higher level
techniques, or using the methods in Sections/ Table…
Section 10.3.2.1.4
 Optimum Spotting

12

BEFORE you begin, ensure the following:

• You have purchased the Optimum Spotting Module.
• Appropriate Criteria defined, in particular:
o Survey Point Clearances
o Insulator Swing
o Automatic Sagging
• Structure models defined and added to Available Structure List and for
each tower indicate the:
o Cost of the structure
o Indicate if the structure should be considered by the algorithm
o Indicate which conductor Set to use for determining clearance
calculations
o Define the minimum line angles to be considered
• Ensure that the Spotting Constraints are defined.
Section 14.1

Select the cable file to be used.

Usually this is lowest cable (so ground clearance controls).

This conductor should be intended to match the Conductor Set defined in the
Available Structure's List.

Structures/ Automatic Spotting/ Optimum Spotting/ Select Station Range to

indicate over which length of the Alignment the optimization should be
considered.

Input parameters in the Optimum Spotting Dialog Box.

These include the data for:
• Conductor :- voltage, sag parameters, conductors per phase
• Spotting parameters :- Min and Max spans and station spacing interval
• An initial guess of the Ruling Span
• Click OK to run the optimization

INSPECT THE RESULTS

Always review the computer generated results, as the Engineer of Record.

String & Sag additional conductor sets that were not strung during the
Optimization.

Sections/ Add Graphical

Optimum Spotting will only string the one designated Conductor Set.
Section 10.3.1.3
 Electrical Design
Aspects
13

Defining and Labeling Circuits and Electrical Phasing in PLS-CADD

In PLS-CADD you can define and label wires into circuits and phases. These labels are integrated into certain
reports, can be used as a display case for the wires, can be part of plan and profile drawing sheets, and used to
create phasing diagrams.
Sections/ Electric/ Define Circuits & Phases
Section 9.4

Thermal Rating
Thermal rating calculations performed by PLS-CADD are based on
• IEEE Standard 738 (2006 or 2012)
• CIGRE Brochure 207
• CIGRE Brochure 601, or
• TNSP 2009
Sections/ Thermal Calculations (IEEE, CIGRE and TNSP)
Section 10.3.1.3

Electro-Magnetic Field Calculations

Electricity in overhead lines produces an electric field and a magnetic field. These fields are also called Electro
Magnetic Fields or EMF. The Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) is a factor which can be calculated during the
design or analysis of overhead transmission lines. The EMF calculation may determine width of a Right of
Way (ROW) or have a particular limit at the edge of a Right of Row for an overhead line.

Within PLS-CADD there are two distinct options to calculate Electro-Magnetic Field Calculations:
• 2D EMF
• 3D EMF
Completed drawings can be output either as an Exported DXF.
Sections/ Electric/ 3D EMF Calculator… or / 3D EMF Along Line…
Section 11.2.8

PLS-CADD can calculate the space potential, electrical field or magnetic field at structures. The software will
create cross sections at selected structures and plot contours for the space potential, electrical field or
magnetic fields.
Sections/Electric/Structure Space Potential Calculator
Section 11.2.8.3

Line Constants Calculator

PLS-CADD can calculate the following line constants:
the resistance, positive sequence inductive reactance, capacitive reactance, impedance magnitude, and phase
angle for all sets with a voltage in the selected range of spans. Using the
Sections/ Electric/ Simple Line Constants Calculator
Section 11.2.10

PLS-CADD can calculate all three symmetrical components (zero, positive and negative sequence values) of the
line impedance. The software accounts for ground wires, ground return, and mutual coupling of nearby
circuits either on the same structure or span, or a neighboring line sharing a corridor.
Sections/ Electric/ Full Line Constants Calculator
Section 11.2.11

Lightning Protection Calculator

PLS-CADD can calculate the lightning coverage surface based on the ground wires of a line. The basis of the
calculation is the Electromagnetic Method (EGM) which is also known as the Rolling Sphere Method.
Sections/ Electric/ Lightning Protection Calculator
Section 11.2.12
 Set Page Size
Use PLS-CADD for all your drafting Page size can now be defined for Drawing Sheets and also now for
Generate Plan & Profile Reports that are exported as PDF files.
All drawing sheets auto-update if any model
Sheets changes are made.
Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Page Size
14 Section 13.2.1

Set the Pages and Station Range

You can build a complete drawing pack for the project and not
just the Plan & Profile Sheets.
This can include the addition of:
Attach a DXF: • A Title Page
Additional items can be added in to embellish • Notes page/s
PLS-CADD P&P Sheets. This will allow the • P&P Drawing Sheets
drawings to match company/client standards • Appendix Page/s
and layout.
These include: This can be coupled with the ability to Inset graphical views and
• Titleblock or Drawing Frame if needed information tables to generate a rich data driven drawing pack.
• North Arrow
This is controlled under the: You also select the section of the alignment (station coordinates
Drafting/ Attachments/ Attachment Manager or structure numbers) to be shown in the drawings.
Section 6.6.1 Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Pages and
Station Range
Section 13.2.2.1

Page Layout
You can control what is visible on each Drawing Sheet, and the
relative position and size that each "section" of the drawing
covers. This gives the User control to meet most Utility or Client
Drafting standards and requirements.
Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Page Layout
Section 13.2.2

Set The Scales...Long-axis plot etc.

Once the Page Layout and Paper size has been set, you can
Output control the overall appearance of the P&P drawings under the
Completed drawings can be output either as an Exported DXF Scales menu.
drawing for further manipulation in a drafting package, This not only controls the actual Scales at which the drawing is
File/ Export/ DXF produced, but allows for the insertion of Grid Lines and various
other functions to control the appearance of the Sheets view.
Or as a PDF file for printing and sharing: It's also possible to select whether or not the view should be a
Long-Axis Plot or not (normally driven by Client Preferences)
• Can be done either by File/ Print
• or by Right-clicking on the Sheets View tab and selecting Save Drafting/ Plan & Profile Sheet Configuration/ Scales
as PDF/ To File Section 13.2.3
Section 13.4

Add Annotations
The drawings can be further embellished with
Annotations to fully portray the granular details
Inset Views and Tables
of the project.
Additional views or data can be placed on the Title, Notes and
These annotations can be:
Appendix pages in the form of Inset Views or Inset Report/Tables
to create a full drafting pack for the project. • Lines • Polygons
• Arrows • Dimensions
Many ways to do this, but mainly controlled via: • Arcs • Text
Drafting/ Inset Views/ Add • Circles
Section 13.3
Section 13.5 – 13.8
 Generate Construction
Reports and other
Output files
15 Construction Stringing Charts
These charts are needed by Construction crews to install the wires at the correct tensions
for different install temperatures to match the design assumptions.

You can generate them using:

Sections/ Stringing Chart/ Single Section, or
Sections/ Stringing Chart/ Multiple Sections
Sections 11.2.4

KMZ files
It can be very convenient to share the line model and even several types of reports by
using KML/Z files, as these can be viewed by Google Earth© or other GIS applications.

To export your model as a KMZ (ideally from the 3D View in PLS-CADD), select:
File/ Export/ KMZ (Google Earth)

Some of the reports that can be exported to KMZ files are:

• P.I. Report
• Construction Staking Report
• Leg and Guy Extension Report
• Terrain Clearances by Span Report
• Thermal Rating Report
• Danger Tree Locator Report
• Vegetation Work Site Centroids (can also be exported as a SHP file)

Structure Loads Report

These detailed loads can be shared with structure designers/suppliers to verify the
structures are fit for purpose.
Construction Staking Report
You can generate a Construction Staking This can be done for a single structure at a time:
Report which is relating to the construction Structures/ Loads/ Report
of the line. This includes:
• The coordinates (either as XY or as Or for a selected range of structures:
Lat/Long) for Stakes , which indicate the Lines/ Reports/ Structure Loads Report
field location of:
• poles,
• tower legs
• Anchors Bills of Materials
• P.I.’s, and The Bills of Material can be generated if the model includes this data. The material
• reference stakes. data includes:
• It can also include up to four different • Material captured for each Structure file
graphical views and • Structure Specific Material - tied to the structure site (such as foundations, signs,
• A material list for each of the structures. dampers, etc. material described in the Material button of Structure Modify dialog
box).
Lines/ Reports/ Construction Staking • Line Specific material for anything more general regarding the line but not
Report necessarily tied to a specific location (described in the Line Specific Material button
Appendix R.3 of Lines Edit dialog box).
• Wire quantities and concentrated loads (such as aerial marker balls)

Cost information for both Material and Labor can be included to enable cost tracking
of the design. Furthermore, the status of the assets can be included so that life-cycle
tracking and maintenance/replacement activities can be quantified as well.
The Bill of Material can be generated by either:
Lines/ Reports/ Bill of Material by Structure Location, or
Lines/ Reports/ Bill of Material
Appendix M
 Webinars:
Power Line Systems produced a series of Webinars on selected
topics during 2020.
These webinars are available through the latest version of the
software by selecting:

Help/ Register for Training Classes…

In this dialog box you can access the Past Webinars. These are
available in the drop down list.
You will receive a URL link to either watch the videos online, or
to download them.

In total there is about 18 hours covering the 13 topics

 Power Line Systems IT’S ALL ABOUT YOUR POWER LINES

Advanced Sag & Tension IEC

FAC 008/009

PLS-CADD FAC 003

Materials Management
NESC ® LiDAR Modeling
Structural Analysis CSA
Pole Analysis CENELEC Distribution
Line Ratings Transmission
IEEE Joint Use NERC Ratings Line Optimization
Project Estimating Storm Hardening Drafting
GO95
Vegetation Management 1000+ Users in 100+ Countries PLS-POLE
See www.powerlinesystems.com for more information
TOWER
Contact [email protected] for additional information Madison, Wisconsin 53719, USA
Phone: 608- 238-2171
Contact [email protected] for quotation ASCE Fax: 608-238-9241
[email protected]
Contact [email protected] for technical inquiries www.powerlinesystems.com

IT’S THE SOLUTION

4/16/2021 Power Line Systems, Inc. 3