PLS-CADD is a Microsoft Windows-based program that combines a three-dimensional engineering model with sophisticated structural and geometric analysis. It allows engineers to design a transmission or distribution line within a single environment, calculating everything from wire sag to structural loading. Core Capabilities
The hardest part was the "Splicing and Sagging." Elias dragged the virtual conductor from Tower 1 to Tower 2. Initially, the wire hung limp, dangerously close to a digital rock face. The Conflict: A warning flashed red: Clearance Violation. The Solution:
Export critical construction reports using the Reports menu:
Select Structures / Automatic Spotting . Input your minimum ground clearance parameters, and the algorithm optimizes structure placements and heights to minimize total project cost. 6. Sag-Tension and Clearance Analysis pls-cadd tutorial pdf
Before placing structures, you must establish the engineering "rules" the software will follow. PLS-CADD - Power Line Systems
The ultimate goal of a PLS-CADD project is producing actionable field documentation. Plan and Profile Sheets Navigate to Drafting > Plan & Profile Sheet Setup .
Quick-start section (one or two pages)
It uses advanced geometric thermal models to calculate exact wire positions under varying weather conditions.
Title page and brief introduction
The software validates the safety and compliance of the design: PLS-CADD is a Microsoft Windows-based program that combines
Assign points to specific layers (e.g., ground, existing wires, buildings, roads) using a feature code customization file ( .fcc ).
For rigorous engineering, link external .pol (PLS-POLE) or .tow (TOWER) files to represent physical assets accurately (Method 4). 5. Alignment, Structure Spotting, and Stringing