An electrical forensic engineer, Ed Clark, has
presented a theory of how power lines could have
started one or more of last October's San Diego
fires. He blames it on loose connections in
the power pole support cables. His evidence is
compelling.
The San Diego Union Tribune web site has a good
animated explanation of the phenomenon. See:
http://interactives.signonsandiego.com/power/
or
http://uniontrib.com/more/powerpole
Mr. Clark's theory is based on current in the
earth, where the support cables provide a much
lower current path in parallel with the earth.
Arcing is clearly shown in the photos in Mr.
Clark's report. See:
http://theelectricalexpert.com/reports
Scroll down to "view presentation below." The
photos clearly show evidence of arcing.
Unfortunately, in addition to the facts, Mr.
Clark has loaded his presentation with
sensationalism.
In the UnionTrib article, our local utility,
San Diego Gas and Electric, claims that at
least one of the arc marks "is actually an old
paint band applied by the manufacturer." SDG&E
further said, "We looked at the information and
discussed it fully. We don't think he's right."
Here is the full article:
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/metro/20080210-9999-1n10sdge.html
(For long URLs like this one, be wary of line
wraps that yield only partial URLs when copied
and pasted. If this URL doesn't work, then
manually copy into your browser.)
Best regards,
Richard Nute
Product Safety Consultant
San Diego
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