Foundation Engineering for Transmission Line Structures

An overview is given of the development and practice of foundation engineering for electrical transmission line structures (TLS). The evolution of this specialty field has been very different from its evolution for building and/or bridge structures. The differences involved are substantial and relate to the structure types, loading, threat to life, ground assessment over long corridors, construction issues, and various other factors. Unfortunately, these key issues are not addressed in traditional references such as textbooks or design manuals, and they are not covered in standard university courses in foundation engineering. Accordingly, designers, constructors, and others in the electric utility industry have developed alternative approaches toward foundation engineering for TLS. This paper presents an overview of this specialty field and discusses some pertinent issues regarding the structures, loading, foundations, geotechnical assessment, design philosophy, and construction issues.