Beacon Hill

Hill, Mountain in Lincolnshire South Kesteven

England

Beacon Hill

The singing wires The wires on this bit of the 400kV circuit are being replaced. On the left hand side the upper arm has been completed, there are two new wires attached to the new single-arm insulator.

Below that the next two legs have had the insulators replaced, but are carrying the original 4 wire circuit is carried over pulleys, running blocks, ready for removal.

Those 4 older wires are no longer clamped together with cross-braces and are swinging loosely in the wind. Occasionally they touch, and produce a very odd ringing sound. It took me some time to work out what the noise was. I have made a recording of it using the same camera in video mode, and posted it on Youtube - here: <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNY43Nv-Cc8" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNY43Nv-Cc8">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — The singing wires Credit: Bob Harvey

Beacon Hill is a prominent hill located in the county of Lincolnshire in England. Standing at a height of 100 meters (328 feet), it is known for its picturesque landscapes and stunning views of the surrounding area. The hill is part of the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Covered with lush greenery and a variety of wildflowers, Beacon Hill is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The hill is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and butterflies. Walking trails and footpaths crisscross the hill, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its natural beauty.

Beacon Hill has a rich history dating back centuries. In the past, it served as a signaling point with beacons lit to warn of impending danger or celebrate important events. The remains of an ancient beacon can still be seen on the hilltop, serving as a reminder of its historical significance.

At the summit of Beacon Hill, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Lincolnshire countryside. On a clear day, one can see as far as the Lincoln Cathedral, which stands as a majestic landmark in the distance.

The hill is easily accessible, with a car park located at its base and nearby amenities such as cafes and picnic areas. It attracts both locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to connect with nature. Beacon Hill is truly a gem in the Lincolnshire landscape, offering a haven of tranquility and natural beauty.

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Beacon Hill Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.779842/-0.54656841 or Grid Reference SK9821. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The singing wires

The wires on this bit of the 400kV circuit are being replaced. On the left hand side the upper arm has been completed, there are two new wires attached to the new single-arm insulator. Below that the next two legs have had the insulators replaced, but are carrying the original 4 wire circuit is carried over pulleys, running blocks, ready for removal. Those 4 older wires are no longer clamped together with cross-braces and are swinging loosely in the wind. Occasionally they touch, and produce a very odd ringing sound. It took me some time to work out what the noise was. I have made a recording of it using the same camera in video mode, and posted it on Youtube - here: Link

Bob Harvey

Two thirds done

Bob Harvey

Dead line

This is the upper arm of the pylon seen in SK9822 : Two thirds done. Although the rigging is complete at this point the clamps used to enforce the separation of the wires and the anti-vibration dampers must be installed between here and the next pylon. The dampers are hanging ready for that phase near the insulator. Two dampers can be seen to the right of the insulator. Because someone will have to make their way along fastening those, the circuit remains earthed down, visibly at each insulator, as can be seen here.

Bob Harvey

Hanging down

The new insulator on the middle phase is supporting a running block which is taking the weight of the four original wires. Those will get pulled through and replaced with two from the far end, much as the ones above it were. This assembly is, of course, earthed down to the pylon for safety. Even though the wire is not actively fed, were it not earthed it could acquire a parasitic charge from the active circuit on the far side of the pylon.

Bob Harvey

Under the wires

Looking up at the pulley supporting the loose electric wires under this pylon.

Bob Harvey

The old wires

On the eastern side of the circuit seen in SK9822 : The singing wires, SK9822 : Two thirds done, this is what the original install looked like. 4 wires hung by a doubled ceramic insulator. The new ones, as seen in SK9822 : Dead line are a single glass insulator supporting two wires. Both styles incorporate the "horns" - curved protuberances from top and bottom form an air-gap of carefully designed dimensions. In the event the line is over-volted (probably by a lightning strike) an arc will be struck between the upper and lower horns, dispersing the surplus charge and clamping the voltage to within the amount the insulation can handle without damage.

Bob Harvey

The route of the cables

The limestone ridge in East Lincolnshire forms these wide, open, vistas, across which (here) is striding the line of pylons seen in SK9822 : The singing wires.

Bob Harvey