Stands for Sag-Tension Analysis Program, providing stand-alone wire modeling. 3. Step-by-Step PLS-CADD Workflow Tutorial
is the industry-standard software for the design and analysis of overhead electric power lines. A comprehensive tutorial or PDF guide serves as an essential roadmap for engineers to navigate its complex, integrated environment, which combines structural analysis, terrain modeling, and sag-tension calculations. The Role of PLS-CADD in Modern Engineering PLS-CADD stands out because it provides a unified design environment
Work through the Example.xyz projects provided in the default installation folder of the software.
To get started with PLS-CADD, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Easy-to-use reference material while working on design projects without needing internet access. pls-cadd tutorial pdf
Modeling terrain elevations along the route.
Define how raw survey data (points) are interpreted. Each point is assigned a code (e.g., ground, existing pole, road centerline). Importing Data:
PLS-CADD functions as a "shell" that references external library files. Structure Files (.str or .res): Structures are often created in (for wood, steel, or concrete poles) or (for lattice towers) and then imported. Conductor Libraries:
Understanding how PLS-CADD categorizes surveyed points (Ground vs. Structure vs. Obstacle) is critical. Incorrect coding leads to false clearance violations. A comprehensive tutorial or PDF guide serves as
If you attend an official PLS-CADD training course, you will receive a printed or PDF workbook that functions as a hands-on, step-by-step tutorial. University and Utility Engineering Guidelines
The core program used for terrain modeling, spotting structures, calculating clearances, and generating construction documents.
: Learn the layout, including the 3D View, Profile View, and Plan View.
Wind, ice, and temperature loadings (NESC, IEC, or ASCE standards). Modeling terrain elevations along the route
Minimum vertical distances to ground, roads, railways, and other utility lines. 4. Structure Spotting and Stringing
Structures can be modeled as simple structural approximations directly inside PLS-CADD (Method 1).
Ice thickness, wind pressure, and simultaneous temperatures specified by codes like the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC). Extreme Wind: High-velocity wind cases without ice. Extreme Ice: Heavy ice loads with reduced wind. Clearance Requirements
Example terrain data ( .xyz ), structure files ( .gfl , .don ), and wire files ( .wir ) that you can use to practice while following a tutorial. 5. Tips for Beginners Learning PLS-CADD
The official Power Line Systems website offers valuable downloadables:
: A 12-step PDF flowchart that serves as a general reference for developing a complete project, from loading master files to sagging conductors.