Sleet-Thawing Practices of the New England Electric System [includes discussion]

Sleet loading on transmission lines became a serious problem during the early growth of the New England Electric System. As a result, a method was devised to prevent ice from accumulating on conductors of the then existing lines, and basic changes were made in the design of projected lines for greater reliability during icing conditions. This paper describes the types of sleet-thawing operations developed for the protection of lines vulnerable to damage and also power requirements, operating features, and safety precautions to both personnel and power-supply equipment.