P and R Technologies - Power Line Markers

Markers are used to highlight structures when it is impractical to make them conspicuous by painting. Markers may also be used in addition to aviation orange and white paint when additional conspicuity is necessary for aviation safety. They should be displayed in conspicuous positions on or adjacent to the structures so as to retain the general definition of the structure.

They should be recognizable in clear air from a distance of at least 4,000 feet (1219m) and in all directions from which aircraft are likely to approach. Markers should be distinctively shaped, i.e., spherical or cylindrical, so they are not mistaken for items that are used to convey other information. They should be replaced when faded or otherwise deteriorated.

a. Spherical Markers. Spherical markers are used to identify overhead wires. Markers may be of another shape, i.e., cylindrical, provided the projected area of such markers will not be less than that presented by a spherical marker.

1. Size and Color.

The diameter of the markers used on extensive Catenary wires across canyons, lakes, rivers, etc., should be not less than 36 inches (91cm). Smaller 20-inch (51cm) spheres are permitted on less extensive power lines or on power lines below 50 feet (15m) above the ground and within 1,500 feet (458m) of an airport runway end. Each marker should be a solid color such as aviation orange, white, or yellow.

2. Installations.

(a) Spacing. Markers should be spaced equally along the wire at intervals of approximately 200 feet (61m) or a fraction thereof. Intervals between markers should be less in critical areas near runway ends (i.e., 30 to 50 feet (10m to 15m)). They should be displayed on the highest wire or by another means at the same height as the highest wire. Where there is more than one wire at the highest point, the markers may be installed alternately along each wire if the distance between adjacent markers meets the spacing standard. This method allows the weight and wind loading factors to be distributed.

(b) Pattern. An alternating color scheme provides the most conspicuity against all backgrounds. Mark overhead wires by alternating solid colored markers of aviation orange, white, and yellow. Normally, an orange sphere is placed at each end of a line and the spacing is adjusted (not to exceed 200 feet (61m)) to accommodate the rest of the markers. When less than four markers are used, they should all be aviation orange.

b. Flag Markers. Flags are used to mark certain structures or objects when it is technically impractical to use spherical markers or painting. Some examples are temporary construction equipment, cranes, derricks, oil and other drilling rigs. Catenaries should use spherical markers.

1. Minimum Size. Each side of the flag marker should be at least 2 feet (0.6m) in length.

2. Color Patterns. Flags should be colored as follows:

(a) Solid. Aviation orange.

(b) Orange and White. Arrange two triangular sections, one aviation orange and the other white to form a rectangle.

(c) Checkerboard. Flags 3 feet (0.9m) or larger should be a checkerboard pattern of aviation orange and white squares, each 1 foot (0.3m) plus or minus 10 percent.

3. Shape. Flags should be rectangular in shape and have stiffeners to keep them from drooping in calm wind.

4. Display. Flag markers should be displayed around, on top, or along the highest edge of the obstruction. When flags are used to mark extensive or closely grouped obstructions, they should be displayed approximately 50 feet (15m) apart. The flag stakes should be of such strength and height that they will support the flags above all surrounding ground, structures, and/or objects of natural growth.