Buzzing ESB overhead power lines

Andy From Sligo

I might have the wrong category but I could not find a section on Infrastructure.

My wife was just out for her daily walk and come across this wooden pole with electricity lines on it and could hear it buzzing and crackling (Sound up for the video) and asked me if that was normal. - I'm not really sure , I know like with the massive metal Pylons with the wires really high up from the ground where they have many kilovolts running through them they do this … and especially when its foggy and damp weather outside. But I wasnt sure about this - these lower ones really shouldnt carry that much voltage should they for doing this should they?

https://youtu.be/Etg-iGAxLzA

Orban6

Even wooden poles can carry 11kV or more.

I've heard this before. I don't think it's anything to worry about but call the ESB if you are concerned.

codie

I had this problem from poles on my site. The ESB can change the arrestors (think that's the correct name) . There are ones that don't noise in the mist and damp conditions

mikewest

High humidity can cause coronal discharge on insulators even on MV lines (10kV). This is more likely on older, weathered or damaged insulators. Nothing to be concerned about unless it's very loud on one particular pole or you see sparks (arcing). If you do call ESB networks.

rob w

It can be caused by humidity or dirt/contamination on the insulators. It can also be caused by a poor connection to the cable that's going down the pole. Either one could lead to a premature failure of the equipment.

It is worth calling ESBN and giving them details of the pole location. If there is an issue they will resolve it