Final Draft For Essay 4

Josiah Janyszek
Professor Kerr
EN101-23
November 29, 2011

Overhead Power Lines Should Remain

    Almost every single time a major storm strikes a city, the question as to whether power lines should be buried or remain overhead is brought up (“Underground or“).  The recent October snowstorm knocked down trees which caused damage to a lot of power lines and utility poles and caused people to question why the power lines aren‘t yet underground and out of harm‘s way (“Underground Power“).  Although power lines may remain above ground, there is a movement across most of the country that wants to bury power lines to prevent outages that can be caused by bad weather (Cassidy).  Unfortunately for those in favor of underground power lines, the damages caused by the bad weather won’t tip the scale in favor of burying power lines (Cassidy).  Even though power lines may remain above ground, there are advantages and disadvantages for both systems (“Underground or“).  However, the technology involved with underground power lines is advancing, but it still doesn’t outweigh the disadvantages (“Idaho“).  It is my personal opinion that power lines remain above ground for the time being.  Overhead and underground power lines differ in the cost of installing the power lines, how the two different systems are installed, and the reliability of each system.
    Using overhead power lines and taking the necessary steps to install overhead power lines saves more money than burying power lines and making the adjustments that are in association.  Overhead power lines have lower costs, higher installation rates, and are built faster providing earlier services (Rowe).  According to Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P), overhead power lines cost about $800,000 a mile ,whereas an underground system would cost around $3.5 million per mile (Cassidy).  The cost for trimming trees for an overhead system is substantially less than the cost for construction of an underground system (“ETL“).  Also, the maintenance of the overhead system also costs a lot less than the maintenance for an underground system (“ETL“).
        Underground power lines cost more, but they are less prone to weather damage.  Dan Riedinger from the Edison Electric Institute informs that installing underground power lines would only cost an additional $10,000 per mile in a country-like setting (“Underground Power“).  The cost could be considered more reasonable in areas where the geography would cause more outages in an overhead system (Cassidy).  William Tong, state representative of Connecticut, said, “I think everybody would rather we were able to bury them underground[.]  The problem is the level of cost and construction that comes along with it . . . It’s thousands and thousands of dollars per foot” (Cassidy).  Many people want power lines to be buried, but the work and cost that comes with it is too great.  The economic benefits of installing underground power lines seem great enough to overthrow the cost that comes with the installation (“ETL“).  The cost of installing underground power lines can be calculated from what the terrain is like, the placement of the power lines, other underground facilities, the time of day, the design, and a number of other factors (“American“).  Burying power lines can save some money since it reduces the exposure to trees that would need to be trimmed in order to install an overhead system (“ETL“).  However, burying power lines would still cost more than installing the power lines on poles.
    Cost is one of the major differences between overhead and underground systems.  Installing an underground system can cost up to ten times as much as installing an overhead system (“American“).  The repairs for an underground system also cost more and require more time than repairs made to an overhead system (“Underground or“).  Mitch Gross, a CL&P utility spokesman, said, “We have many inquires from the towns we serve about relocating power lines underground, which typically involve aesthetics and storms, but once they learn of what it would cost them and what is involved, they put those ideas aside” (Cassidy).  Once people learn what the requirements and costs of installing an underground system, they usually change their minds.  Gross also mentions, “Underground power lines are susceptible to heat buildup, and the road salt used for ice control during the winter can eat away and weaken the protective wrapping around the underground cable    ” (Cassidy).  Jim Owen, a spokesman for Edison Electric Institute, says,

There are a number of different threats out there that could pose a threat to overhead lines like ice storms and in the West you've got brush fires' high winds that are problems for overhead infrastructure [.]  Some of those same threats could also impact underground lines, so there is no silver bullet to solve everything (Cassidy). 

Both Owen and Gross are saying that the power lines aren’t 100% safe even though they’re underground.  The costs of repairing lines on an overhead system are also lower than the installation cost of an underground system (“Ottawa“).  There is a little more difficulty in repairing underground power lines which can be exposed to flooding (“Ottawa“).  Burying the power lines may have economic benefits that seem great enough to overthrow the costs, but in reality, the benefits are out of the question when the difference in costs is viewed upon (“ETL”).  Installing power lines in overhead systems is the most affordable choice (“Idaho“).
    Installing overhead power lines saves time and resources when repairs or improvements need to be made.  When a power line needs to be repaired, it can be done much faster if it was in an overhead system versus an underground one (“Idaho“).  The American Transmission Company (ATC) fix problems on an overhead system or improve it without causing too many problems (“American”).  The ATC also tries to improve an area by placing smaller wires on the same poles (“American”).  Speed is another benefit of installing overhead power lines as well (Rowe).  Usually at least one kilometer of wire can be installed on an overhead system a day and if the weather conditions are really great, up to five kilometers of wire can be installed (Rowe).
    Burying the power lines allows the location where the power lines are to appear cleaner and more pleasing to the eye.  Underground power lines aren’t in the way and are protected from conditions that could harm overhead systems (“Underground or“).  Buildings and other structures can also be built in locations that would be unavailable if an overhead system was present (“CCBDA“).  Firefighters have more freedom to work and more room for their equipment (“CCBDA”).  Vehicular accidents are also reduced, and underground systems make it harder for people to be exposed to the wires (“CCBDA”).  Although underground systems are usually out of sight, they can be more visible when vegetation management comes into play (“Idaho“).  When power lines are buried, trees don’t have to be trimmed or cut, and this action not only saves money but also saves the aesthetic value of the tree (“ETL“).  Buried power lines can still affect a tree, but instead of at the top where an overhead system would have an effect, the underground power lines have their effect on the roots (“ETL“).  The impact underground systems have on a tree can be reduced but not eliminated by boring a hole through the roots instead of using an open trench construction (“ETL“).  Boring raises the cost of installing an underground system though (“ETL“).  Underground systems are usually installed when new areas are developed and structures are being built (“Underground or“).  Careful engineering is mandatory when placing the lines in order to make sure the lines are safe and reliable (“American”).  The lines in the underground system are required to be in individual conduits which are encased in thermal concrete and surrounded by certain thermal materials (“American”).  A fiber optic cable is also required in order to protect the lines and control devices which, in turn, protect the system (“American”).  Splice vaults, which are large concrete encased structures, are needed every 1,000 to 1,600 feet in an underground system (“Idaho“).  Underground power lines need to prevent contact with trees in order to prohibit interference with the underground system, and roads need to be managed so underground systems can be accessed for maintenance and repair (“Idaho“).  Underground systems are also equipped with a spare conduit which can be used to replace a damaged cable or pipe without reopening the entire trench and, as a result, saves more money and time and doesn’t interfere with the environment as much (“American”).  Underground systems consume less heat than overhead ones, and the soil, the depth of the system, and any nearby structures affect the wires’ ability to get rid of the heat (“American”).  However, new underground systems can dissipate heat better than older overhead ones (“American”).  Underground power lines make more sense and are the more reasonable choice where the area of installation is in heavily populated areas or near airports (“American”).
    How the two different systems are installed determines the time it takes to get the systems set up and the ease of making repairs and improvements.  Overhead power lines can be installed on poles much faster than digging trenches to install the power lines underground (Rowe).  It’s harder for the ATC to make improvements on an underground system than it is on an overhead one (“American”).  Underground systems are not only more expensive but also harder to install and operate (“Idaho“).  It’s also harder to make repairs in an underground system since it takes more time to find the problem, dig up the area where the problem is located, and fix it than it is to fix a problem in an overhead system (“Idaho“).  Underground systems also use more equipment for installation purposes and generally need more substations (“Idaho“).  In addition, when a tree is affected by an electrical distribution system, more damage is received from an underground system (“ETL“).  Boring can usually reduce the damage done to a tree, but if boring is not available and an open trench construction has to be used instead, a decent amount of damage can be done (“ETL“).  The damage done to a tree can be great since the roots of the tree are located within the top four feet of the soil, and depending on the situation, part of the tree could even be killed (“ETL“).  Therefore, the most damage can be done to a tree from using an underground system.
    Overhead power lines have a higher reliability rating than underground ones.  Overhead power lines tend to be more reliable because of their design and since most of the lines are set up with a backup source just in case one of the lines were to lose power (“ETL“).  Since the wires in an overhead system are only supported by poles, the cables need to be strong ,whereas the underground cables just lie inside a trench (Rowe).  The overhead power lines also have to be strong enough to support the extra weight caused by wind and ice (Rowe).  An overhead system can last up to 100 years, yet an underground one may only last around twenty years (“Idaho“).
    Underground power lines aren’t made as strong as overhead power lines since weather doesn’t have to be considered as much when installing the underground power lines.  The  lines can also be more reliable during a storm and are less likely to witness an outage (“Ottawa“).  Underground power lines also don’t require as much maintenance (“CCBDA“).  Although, the reliability of underground systems increases as repairs and upgrades are made to the electric infrastructure (“Underground or“).
    With the exception of storms, overhead systems are more reliable than underground ones.  Overhead systems received an excellent reputation for security and reliability because of the wires that have been in use since the 1980s (Rowe).  It’s also easier to repair power lines in an overhead system (“Underground or“).  The faults in an underground system are harder to find which causes more time to be taken in order to fix the problem (“Underground or“).  Conductor heat buildup, underground water, and bacteria are a few of many factors that cause underground systems to be less reliable (“Idaho“).  Underground systems also need bigger cables in order to carry the same amount of capacity as an overhead system (“Idaho“).  Overhead systems may be more prone to weather damage, but they are also far more reliable (“Underground or“).  And underground systems may be less prone to weather damage, but their problems are also much more difficult to find and more time consuming to fix (“Idaho“).
    Costs, installation, and reliability greatly differ overhead systems from underground ones.  When it comes to cost, overhead seems the more reasonable choice unless the area where the system will be installed doesn’t have enough room for an overhead system.  Underground systems also take longer to install and require more work to ensure safety and reliability.  The main benefit of an underground system is the reduction of trimming or cutting down trees and the cleaner and neater view of the area.  Overhead systems are also more reliable than underground ones unless there is a storm.  Depending on the severity of the storm, underground systems could be more reliable. If it’s just a small storm and there is not a threat of flooding, overhead systems are more reliable.  If there’s a major storm and the threat of flooding isn’t present, underground systems are more reliable.  It all depends on the circumstances.  Still, overhead systems are the better choice when costs, installation, and reliability are being viewed.

Works Cited

American Transmission Company. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.atcllc.com/IT5.shtml>.
Cassidy, Martin B. "Underground Lines Can Inspire Sticker Shock - Connecticut Post." CTPost.com - Connecticut Post. Web. 23 Nov. 2011. <http://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Underground-lines-can-inspire-sticker-shock-2154315.php>.
“CCBDA Publication 21E: Section 3 - Advantages of Underground Cables." Canadian Copper and Brass Development Association. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.coppercanada.ca/publications/pub21e/21e-Section3.html>.
“ETL - Impacts of Overhead vs. Underground Construction - Talgov.com." Talgov.com - The Official Website of the City of Tallahassee. Web. 23 Nov. 2011. <http://www.talgov.com/you/electric/tline_construct.cfm>.
“Idaho Power - About Us - Our Power Lines - Overhead/Underground Power Lines." Welcome To Idaho Power. Web. 23 Nov. 2011. <http://www.idahopower.com/AboutUs/OurPowerLines/overheadUnderground.cfm>.
“Ottawa Power Lines Seldom Buried  OpenFile." Community-powered News  OpenFile. Web. 24 Nov. 2011. <http://ottawa.openfile.ca/ottawa/file/2011/07/ottawa-power-lines-seldom-buried>.
Rowe, Jim. "Using Overhead Distribution Lines to Carry Fibre Optic Cables." Www.bigsocietybroadband.coop. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.bigsocietybroadband.coop/book/export/html/85>.
“Underground or Overhead Power Lines?" Carolina Country Magazine. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.carolinacountry.com/storypages/howtos/underover/underover.html>.
“Underground Power Cables Too Costly, Experts Say  CBS New York." CBS New York -News, Sports, Weather, Traffic and the Best of NY. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/11/03/underground-power-cables-too-costly-experts-say/>.

First Draft For Essay 4

Josiah Janyszek
Professor Kerr
EN101-23
November 24, 2011

Overhead Power Lines Should Remain

    Almost every single time a major storm strikes a city, the question as to whether power lines should be buried or remain overhead is brought up (“Underground or“).  The recent October snowstorm knocked down trees which caused damage to a lot of power lines and utility poles and caused people to question why the power lines aren‘t yet underground and out of harm‘s way (“Underground Power“).  Although power lines may remain above ground, there is a movement across most of the country that wants to bury power lines to prevent outages that can be caused by bad weather (Cassidy).  Unfortunately for those in favor of underground power lines, the damages caused by the bad weather won’t tip the scale in favor of burying power lines (Cassidy).  Even though power lines may remain above ground, there are advantages and disadvantages for both systems (“Underground or“).  However, the technology involved with underground power lines is advancing, but disadvantages still remain (“Idaho“).  Overhead and underground power lines differ in the cost of installing the power lines, how the two different systems are installed, and the reliability of each system.
    Using overhead power lines and taking the necessary steps to install overhead power lines saves more money than burying power lines and making the adjustments that are in association.  Overhead power lines have lower costs, higher installation rates, and are built faster providing earlier services (Rowe).  According to Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P), overhead power lines cost about $800,000 a mile ,whereas an underground system would cost around $3.5 million per mile (Cassidy).  The cost for trimming trees for an overhead system is substantially less than the cost for construction of an underground system (“ETL“).  The maintenance of the overhead system also costs a lot less than the maintenance for an underground system (“ETL“).
        Underground power lines cost more, but they are less prone to weather damage.  Dan Riedinger from the Edison Electric Institute informs that installing underground power lines would only cost an additional $10,000 per mile in a country-like setting (“Underground Power“).  The cost of installing underground power lines could be considered more reasonable in areas where the geography would cause more outages in an overhead system (Cassidy).  William Tong, state representative of Connecticut, said, “I think everybody would rather we were able to bury them underground[.]  The problem is the level of cost and construction that comes along with it . . . It’s thousands and thousands of dollars per foot” (Cassidy).  Many people want power lines to be buried, but the work and cost that comes with it is too great.  The economic benefits of installing underground power lines seem great enough to overthrow the cost that comes with the installation (“ETL“).  The terrain, the placement of the power lines, other underground facilities, the time of day, the design, and a number of other factors determine the cost of installing underground power lines (“American“).  Burying power lines can save money since it reduces the exposure to trees that would need to be trimmed in order to install an overhead system (“ETL“).  However, burying power lines would still cost more than installing the power lines on poles.
    Cost is one of the major differences between overhead and underground systems.  Installing an underground system can cost up to ten times as much as installing an overhead system (“American“).  The repairs for an underground system cost more and require more time than repairs made to an overhead system (“Underground or“).  Mitch Gross, a CL&P utility spokesman, said, “We have many inquires from the towns we serve about relocating power lines underground, which typically involve aesthetics and storms, but once they learn of what it would cost them and what is involved, they put those ideas aside” (Cassidy).  Once people learn what the requirements and costs of installing an underground system, they usually change their minds.  Gross also mentions, “Underground power lines are susceptible to heat buildup, and the road salt used for ice control during the winter can eat away and weaken the protective wrapping around the underground cable    ” (Cassidy).  Jim Owen, a spokesman for Edison Electric Institute, says, “There are a number of different threats out there that could pose a threat to overhead lines like ice storms and in the West you've got brush fires' high winds that are problems for overhead infrastructure [.]  Some of those same threats could also impact underground lines, so there is no silver bullet to solve everything” (Cassidy).  Both Owen and Gross are saying that the power lines aren’t 100% safe even though they’re underground.  The costs of repairing lines on an overhead system are also lower than the installation cost of an underground system (“Ottawa“).  Underground power lines are also harder to repair and are exposed to flooding (“Ottawa“).  Burying the power lines may have economic benefits that seem great enough to overthrow the costs, but in reality, the benefits are out of the question when the difference in costs is viewed upon (“ETL”).  Installing power lines in overhead systems is the most affordable choice (“Idaho“).
    Installing overhead power lines saves time and resources when repairs or improvements need to be made.  When a power line needs to be repair, it can be done much faster if it was in an overhead system versus an underground one (“Idaho“).  The American Transmission Company fix problems on an overhead system or improve it without causing too many problems (“American”).  The ATC also tries to improve an area by placing smaller wires on the same poles (“American”).  Overhead systems can be installed much quicker than underground ones (Rowe).  Usually at least one kilometer of wire can be installed on an overhead system a day and if the weather conditions are really great, up to five kilometers of wire can be installed (Rowe).
    Burying the power lines allows the location where the power lines are to appear cleaner and more pleasing to the eye.  Underground power lines aren’t in the way and are protected from conditions that could harm overhead systems (“Underground or“).  Buildings can be built above and around underground systems (“CCBDA“).  Underground systems also don’t get in the way of firefighters and their equipment (“CCBDA”).  Vehicular accidents are also reduced, and underground systems make it harder for people to be exposed to the wires (“CCBDA”).  Although underground systems are usually out of sight, they can be more visible when vegetation management comes into play (“Idaho“).  When power lines are buried, trees don’t have to be trimmed or cut, and this action not only saves money but also saves the aesthetic value of the tree (“ETL“).  Buried power lines can still affect a tree, but instead of at the top where an overhead system would have an effect, the underground power lines have their effect on the roots (“ETL“).  The impact underground systems have on a tree can be reduced but not eliminated by boring a hole through the roots instead of using an open trench construction (“ETL“).  Boring raises the cost of installing an underground system though (“ETL“).  Underground systems are usually installed when new areas are developed and structures are being built (“Underground or“).  Careful engineering is mandatory when placing the lines in order to make sure the lines are safe and reliable (“American”).  The lines in the underground system are required to be in individual conduits which are encased in thermal concrete and surrounded by certain thermal materials (“American”).  A fiber optic cable is also required in order to protect the lines and control devices which, in turn, protect the system (“American”).  Splice vaults, which are large concrete encase structures, are needed every 1,000 to 1,600 feet in an underground system (“Idaho“).  Underground power lines need to prevent contact with trees in order to prohibit interference with the underground system, and roads need to be managed so underground systems can be accessed for maintenance and repair (“Idaho“).  Underground systems are also equipped with a spare conduit which can replace a damaged cable or pipe without reopening the entire trench and, as a result, saves more money and time and doesn’t interfere with the environment as much (“American”).  Underground systems consume less heat than overhead ones, and the soil, the depth of the system, and any nearby structures affect the wires’ ability to get rid of the heat (“American”).  However, new underground systems can dissipate heat better than older overhead ones (“American”).  Underground power lines make more sense and are the more reasonable choice where the area of installation is in heavily populated areas or near airports (“American”).
    How the two different systems are installed determines the time it takes to get the systems set up and the ease of making repairs and improvements.  Overhead power lines can be installed on poles much faster than digging trenches to install the power lines underground (Rowe).  It’s harder for the ATC to make improvements on an underground system than it is to make improvements on an overhead system (“American”).  Underground systems are not only more expensive but also harder to install and operate (“Idaho“).  It’s also harder to make repairs in an underground system since it takes more time to find the problem, dig up the area where the problem is located, and fix it than it does to fix a problem in an overhead system (“Idaho“).  Underground systems also need and use more equipment for installation purposes and generally need more substations (“Idaho“).  Also, when a tree is affected by an electrical distribution system, more damage is received from an underground system (“ETL“).  Boring can usually reduce the damage done to a tree, but if boring is not available and an open trench construction has to be used instead, a decent amount of damage can be done (“ETL“).  The damage done to a tree can be great since the roots of the tree are located within the top four feet of the soil, and depending on the situation, part of the tree could even be killed (“ETL“).  Therefore, the most damage can be done to a tree from using an underground system.
    Overhead power lines have a higher reliability rating than underground ones.  Overhead power lines tend to be more reliable because of their design and since most of the lines are set up with a backup source just in case one of the lines were to lose power (“ETL“).  Since the wires in an overhead system are only supported by poles, the cables need to be strong ,whereas the underground cables just lie inside a trench (Rowe).  The overhead power lines also have to be strong enough to support the extra weight caused by wind and ice (Rowe).  An overhead system can last up to 100 years, and an underground one may only last around twenty years (“Idaho“).
    Underground power lines aren’t made as strong as overhead power lines since weather doesn’t have to be considered as much as when installing the underground power lines.  Underground power lines are more reliable during a storm and less likely to endure outages (“Ottawa“).  Underground power lines also don’t require as much maintenance (“CCBDA“).  The reliability of underground systems increases as repairs and upgrades are made to the electric infrastructure (“Underground or“).
    With the exception of storms, overhead systems are more reliable than underground ones.  Overhead systems received an excellent reputation for security and reliability because of the wires that have been in use since the 1980s (Rowe).  It’s also easier to repair power lines in an overhead system (“Underground or“).  The faults in an underground system are harder to find which causes more time to be taken in order to fix the problem (“Underground or“).  Conductor heat buildup, underground water, and bacteria are a few of many factors that cause underground systems to be less reliable (“Idaho“).  Underground systems also need bigger cables in order to carry the same amount of capacity as an overhead system (“Idaho“).  Overhead systems may be more prone to weather damage, but they are also far more reliable (“Underground or“).  And underground systems may be less prone to weather damage, but their problems are also much more difficult to find and more time consuming to fix (“Idaho“).
    Costs, installation, and reliability greatly differ overhead systems from underground ones.  When it comes to cost, overhead seems the more reasonable choice unless the area where the system will be installed doesn’t have enough room for an overhead system.  Underground systems also take longer to install and require more work to ensure safety and reliability.  The main benefit of an underground system is the reduction of trimming or cutting down trees and the cleaner and neater view of the area.  Overhead systems are also more reliable than underground ones unless there is a storm.  Depending on the severity of the storm and whether there is flooding, underground systems could be more reliable. If it’s just a small storm and there is not a threat of flooding, overhead systems are more reliable.  If there’s a major storm and the threat of flooding isn’t present, underground systems are more reliable.  It all depends on the circumstances.  Overall, overhead systems are the better choice when costs, installation, and reliability are being viewed.

Works Cited

American Transmission Company. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.atcllc.com/IT5.shtml>.
Cassidy, Martin B. "Underground Lines Can Inspire Sticker Shock - Connecticut Post." CTPost.com - Connecticut Post. Web. 23 Nov. 2011. <http://www.ctpost.com/news/article/Underground-lines-can-inspire-sticker-shock-2154315.php>.
“CCBDA Publication 21E: Section 3 - Advantages of Underground Cables." Canadian Copper and Brass Development Association. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.coppercanada.ca/publications/pub21e/21e-Section3.html>.
“ETL - Impacts of Overhead vs. Underground Construction - Talgov.com." Talgov.com - The Official Website of the City of Tallahassee. Web. 23 Nov. 2011. <http://www.talgov.com/you/electric/tline_construct.cfm>.
“Idaho Power - About Us - Our Power Lines - Overhead/Underground Power Lines." Welcome To Idaho Power. Web. 23 Nov. 2011. <http://www.idahopower.com/AboutUs/OurPowerLines/overheadUnderground.cfm>.
“Ottawa Power Lines Seldom Buried  OpenFile." Community-powered News  OpenFile. Web. 24 Nov. 2011. <http://ottawa.openfile.ca/ottawa/file/2011/07/ottawa-power-lines-seldom-buried>.
Rowe, Jim. "Using Overhead Distribution Lines to Carry Fibre Optic Cables." Www.bigsocietybroadband.coop. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.bigsocietybroadband.coop/book/export/html/85>.
“Underground or Overhead Power Lines?" Carolina Country Magazine. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://www.carolinacountry.com/storypages/howtos/underover/underover.html>.
“Underground Power Cables Too Costly, Experts Say  CBS New York." CBS New York -News, Sports, Weather, Traffic and the Best of NY. Web. 11 Nov. 2011. <http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/11/03/underground-power-cables-too-costly-experts-say/>.

Essay 4

My fourth essay is going to be about underground and overhead power lines. I will try to persuade my readers that overhead power lines are better than underground. I was originally going to take the side of underground power lines, but I felt that overhead would seem more logical after doing research.

Essay 3's Second Draft

Josiah Janyszek
Professor Kerr
EN101-23
October 23, 2011

Power Problems

    Most people need electricity in order to continue with their daily lives (“Causes”). Ever since electricity had been introduced, people have been using it to enhance their lifestyle. There are many things that depend on electricity though. Without it, some devices would not work unless they were built to rely on another source of power. Although electricity has made life easier and more enjoyable, it cannot always work or even be used when people need it. There are many things that interrupt the flow of electricity and stop it from being used. Blackouts, power surges, and the weather, among many other factors, cause power problems and outages.
    Blackouts can be the cause and effect of one of the worst power problems that can be experienced. A blackout occurs when absolutely no voltage is running for more than two cycles (“Common”). Tripping a circuit breaker, the power distribution system failing, or utility power failure can create a blackout (“Common”). Most causes of a blackout result from the power system, but human error can play a small part as well (“Electrical”). Blackouts are one of the most dangerous power problems that can exist (“Causes”). James Molinaro, borough president of New York’s Staten Island, said when a blackout occurred during a July heat wave, “Number one, it was a danger to the children that were playing out there in that heat, and secondly it would save electricity that people would need for air conditioning in their homes” (“Patterson”).
  Restoring power after a blackout can be a difficult job for power stations depending on what caused the blackout to occur (“Causes”). Blackouts can never be stopped because the power systems are built and run by human beings (“Electrical”). Although blackouts are very dangerous, power surges can be very expensive depending on what type of electrical equipment is damaged.
    Power surges and spikes can damage electrical equipment depending on how long they last. A power surge and a power spike differ by the amount of time it lasts. A power surge occurs when an excess of voltage is applied for at least three nanoseconds, whereas a power spike occurs when an excess of voltage is only applied for one or two nanoseconds (“HowStuffWorks “How””). Whether it is a power surge or a power spike, it is usually created when the electrical charge is increased at some point in the power line (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). Power surges can be caused by faulty wiring, problems with a power company’s equipment, a downed power line, lightning, which is the most familiar yet the least common cause, or the operation of high-power electrical devices, which is the more common cause (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). Power surges do not always result from lightning when it strikes near power lines; they can also result from magnetic fields that are produced by lightning that is in between storm clouds (“Voltage”). But when the lightning does strike near power lines, the electrical pressure can be drastically increased (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). As for power surges that result from high-power electrical devices, the power surge can be caused by an upset voltage flow in the electrical system (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). The high-voltage electrical devices require a sizeable amount of energy in order to be switched on or off, and the switching creates sudden and brief demands for power that often upsets the voltage flow (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). Power surges can also be created at the switching station of a power company, from a storm that is occurring miles away, by solar winds, or by solar flares (“Voltage”). However a power surge occurs, it can eventually cause overheating and the loss of important and expensive equipment (“Causes”). Because power surges can cause such damage to expensive equipment, it would be a good idea to have surge protection. Jim Korona, principal engineer for power quality at Detroit Edison, warns, “And without surge protection, your electronic equipment is toast” (“Suppressing”). Weather is another factor that can cause power problems and damage electrical equipment.
    The weather can do some of the worst damage to electrical equipment and cause numerous power problems. According to the Edison Electric Institute, weather causes 70% of the power outages in the U.S. (“Causes”). Dust and water can cause short circuits, and, along with lightning, rain, snow, ice, and wind, they can cause many other power failures (“Causes”). The world’s most severe power outages have historically been caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, wind storms, earthquakes, and tsunamis. They can result in damaged power infrastructures and power outages that can last anywhere from days to months (“Causes”). According to a press release about the power interruptions in February 2011, “The task force found a majority of the electric outages and gas shortages were due to weather-related causes” (“FERC”). Poles upholding electrical devices and wires can even be knocked down if the weather becomes horrible enough to do so.
    Many power outages can be caused by blackouts, power surges, and the weather. Blackouts able to leave numerous homes without electricity occur about every four months in the U.S. (“Electrical”). Valuable information can be lost or corrupted, and equipment can be damaged whenever a blackout happens (“Common”). Blackouts, surges, the weather, and other causes can damage all sorts of electrical equipment and leave people without electricity for an unpredictable amount of time. Although electricity is a valuable accessory, it is not always dependable or even safe.

Works Cited

“Causes of Power Failures & Power Outages.” Industrial Diesel Generators: New & Used Generator Sets We Buy/Sell. Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://www.dieselserviceandsupply.com/Causes_of_Power_Failures.aspx>.
"Common Power Problems." Power Solutions Home. Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://www.power-solutions.com/power-quality/common-problems.php>.
"Electrical Blackouts: A Systemic Problem | Issues in Science and Technology | Find Articles." Find Articles | News Articles, Magazine Back Issues & Reference Articles on All Topics. Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3622/is_200407/ai_n9419119/>.
“FERC: “Weather-Related Causes” Explain Power Supply Problems During 2011’s Extreme Winter êThe Energy Collective.” An Energy Policy, Climate Change, and Alternative Energy Community êThe Energy Collective. Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://theenergycollective.com/michaelgiberson/63450/ferc-nerc-conclude-weather-related-causes-explain-most-electric-power-and-gas->.
"HowStuffWorks "How Are Voltage Surges and Spikes Different?"" HowStuffWorks "Science" Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://science.howstuffworks.com/voltage-surges-spikes-different.htm>.
"HowStuffWorks "Power Surges"" HowStuffWorks "Electronics" Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/everyday-tech/surge-protector3.htm>.
Patterson, Thom. "U.S. Electricity Blackouts Skyrocketing - CNN.com." CNN.com - Breaking News, U.S., World, Weather, Entertainment & Video News. Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/innovation/08/09/smart.grid/index.html>.
"Suppressing the Surge | Electrical | This Old House - 1." Home Improvement and Remodeling: This Old House. Web. 23 Oct. 2011. <http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,218003,00.html>.
"Voltage Spike." DC Power Supplies. Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://dcpowersupplies.org/backup-power/voltagespike.html>.

First Draft of Essay 3

Josiah Janyszek
Professor Kerr
EN101-23
October 18, 2011

Power Problems

    Most people need electricity in order to continue with their daily lives (“Causes”). Ever since electricity had been introduced, people have been using it to make their lives easier. There are many things that depend on electricity. Without it, some devices would not work. Although electricity has made life easier and more enjoyable, it cannot always work or even be used when people need it. There are many things that interrupt the flow of electricity and stop it from being used. Blackouts, power surges, and the weather, among many other factors, cause power problems and outages.
    Blackouts can be the cause and effect of one of the worst power problems that can be experienced. A blackout occurs when absolutely no voltage is running for more than two cycles (“Common”). A blackout can occur when a circuit breaker is tripped or because of power distribution or utility power failure (“Common”). Even though blackouts can be caused by human error, most of the causes are from the power system (“Electrical”). One of the most dangerous power problems is a blackout (“Causes”). James Molinaro, borough president of New York’s Staten Island, said when a blackout occurred during a July heat wave, “Number one, it was a danger to the children that were playing out there in that heat, and secondly it would save electricity that people would need for air conditioning in their homes” (“Patterson”).
  Restoring power after a blackout can be a difficult job for power stations depending on what caused the blackout to occur (“Causes”). Blackouts can never be stopped because the power systems are built and run by human beings (“Electrical”). Blackouts may cause many power problems, but power surges can cause more expensive problems.
    Power surges and spikes can damage electrical equipment depending on how long they last. A power surge and a power spike differ by the amount of time it lasts. A power surge occurs when an excess of voltage is applied for at least three nanoseconds, whereas a power spike occurs when an excess of voltage is only applied for one or two nanoseconds (“HowStuffWorks “How””). Whether it is a power surge or a power spike, it is usually created when the electrical charge is increased at some point in the power line (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). Power surges can be caused by faulty wiring, problems with a power company’s equipment, a downed power line, lightning, which is the most familiar yet the least common cause, or the operation of high-power electrical devices, which is the more common cause (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). Power surges do not always result from lightning when it strikes near power lines; they can also result from magnetic fields that are produced by lightning that is in between storm clouds (“Voltage”). But when the lightning does strike near power lines, the electrical pressure can be drastically increased (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). As for power surges that result from high-power electrical devices, the power surge can be caused by an upset voltage flow in the electrical system (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). The high-voltage electrical devices require a sizeable amount of energy in order to be switched on or off, and the switching creates sudden and brief demands for power that often upsets the voltage flow (“HowStuffWorks “Power””). Power surges can also be created at the switching station of a power company, by solar winds, by solar flares, and created from a storm that is occurring miles away (“Voltage”). However a power surge occurs, it can eventually cause overheating and the loss of important and expensive equipment (“Causes”). Weather is another factor that causes power problems.
    The weather can do some of the worst damage to electrical equipment and cause many power problems. According to the Edison Electric Institute, weather causes 70% of the power outages in the U.S. (“Causes”). Dust and water can cause short circuits and, along with lightning, rain, snow, ice, and wind, cause many other power failures (“Causes”). The world’s most severe power outages have historically been caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, wind storms, earthquakes, and tsunamis and can result in damaged power infrastructures and power outages that can last anywhere from days to months (“Causes”). According to a press release about the power interruptions in February 2011, “The task force found a majority of the electric outages and gas shortages were due to weather-related causes” (“FERC”). The weather and natural disasters can knock down poles upholding the power lines or even knock out power stations depending on how serious the natural disaster is.
    Many power outages can be caused by blackouts, power surges, and the weather. Blackouts able to leave numerous homes without electricity occur about every four months in the U.S. (“Electrical”). Valuable information can be lost or corrupted, and equipment can be damaged whenever a blackout happens (“Common”). Blackouts, surges, the weather, and other causes can damage all sorts of electrical equipment and leave people without electricity. Although electricity is a valuable accessory, it is not always dependable.

Works Cited

“Causes of Power Failures & Power Outages.” Industrial Diesel Generators: New & Used Generator Sets We Buy/Sell. Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://www.dieselserviceandsupply.com/Causes_of_Power_Failures.aspx>.
"Common Power Problems." Power Solutions Home. Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://www.power-solutions.com/power-quality/common-problems.php>.
"Electrical Blackouts: A Systemic Problem | Issues in Science and Technology | Find Articles." Find Articles | News Articles, Magazine Back Issues & Reference Articles on All Topics. Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3622/is_200407/ai_n9419119/>.
“FERC: “Weather-Related Causes” Explain Power Supply Problems During 2011’s Extreme Winter êThe Energy Collective.” An Energy Policy, Climate Change, and Alternative Energy Community êThe Energy Collective. Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://theenergycollective.com/michaelgiberson/63450/ferc-nerc-conclude-weather-related-causes-explain-most-electric-power-and-gas->.
"HowStuffWorks "How Are Voltage Surges and Spikes Different?"" HowStuffWorks "Science" Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://science.howstuffworks.com/voltage-surges-spikes-different.htm>.
"HowStuffWorks "Power Surges"" HowStuffWorks "Electronics" Web. 14 Oct. 2011. <http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/everyday-tech/surge-protector3.htm>.
Patterson, Thom. "U.S. Electricity Blackouts Skyrocketing - CNN.com." CNN.com - Breaking News, U.S., World, Weather, Entertainment & Video News. Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/innovation/08/09/smart.grid/index.html>.
"Voltage Spike." DC Power Supplies. Web. 16 Oct. 2011. <http://dcpowersupplies.org/backup-power/voltagespike.html>.

Power Problems

My next essay is about the causes of power problems. I will be researching three causes and the overall effects.

Final Draft For Essay 2

Josiah Janyszek
Professor Kerr
EN101-23
October 5, 2011

AC and DC

    Thomas Edison had over one hundred power stations across many residential areas supplying DC, which was the standard source of power during the late 1800s (“Teacher’s”). Nikola Tesla, who had just arrived in New York, noticed wires were being exposed and hanging around everywhere (“The Current”). Tesla, who knew this was a result of Edison’s DC system, desired to fix the wires being exposed and wanted to work in Edison‘s laboratory (“The Current”). Edison allowed Tesla to work in his laboratory because he didn’t think Tesla could use an AC motor to make the system better (“The Current”). George Westinghouse, a Pittsburgh industrialist, heard about Tesla’s invention and thought he could use this invention to solve problems with long-distance power transmission (“PBS: Tesla - Master of Lightning: War”). Westinghouse bought the patents from Tesla and made a breakthrough with them which resulted in an industrial war (“PBS: Tesla - Master of Lightning: War”). After many demonstrations and propaganda warfare, the ‘War of the Currents’ ended with Westinghouse and Tesla proving that their AC system was better than Edison’s DC system by successfully lighting the Columbian Exposition (“The Current”). The direction of current flow, the generation, and advantages of being used in the transmission system cause AC and DC to differ greatly yet still be needed.
    The direction of the current flow of AC differs from that of DC. DC, which stands for direct current, flows in only one direction whereas AC, which stands for alternating current, can flow in more than one direction (“Teacher’s”). The direction AC travels can be changed many times every second (“Teacher’s”). When AC changes the direction it travels, it also changes between positive and negative values (“PBS: Tesla - Master of Lightning: Understanding”). A constant voltage being expelled from a source until the source has been depleted means that the source is most likely DC ("What Is Alternating Current?" ). DC electricity travels from a negative source to a positive source (“Direct”). A DC circuit, which includes a batter or other source of electrical energy and a conducting wire that travels from the positive end to the negative end, is needed for the electrons to travel between the two different sources (“Direct”). The electrical charges can only flow through a circuit once voltage, the push that causes the charges to flow, has been applied (“Teacher’s”). Before AC and DC can travel through a circuit, they need to be generated.
    AC and DC are generated in different ways and from two different generators. Inside of an AC generator, magnets create a magnetic field which has an armature (a wire that is wrapped to form several coils) moving through or spinning within it (“The American Experience | Edison's Miracle of Light | AC - DC: What's the Difference?: Inside”). The movement created by the armature or any sort of spinning wire within the magnetic field causes the electrons to move in two different directions creating the AC electricity (“The American Experience | Edison's Miracle of Light | AC - DC: What's the Difference?: Inside”). DC generators use a brush to make contact with the coils which, in turn, creates direct current (“What Is Alternating Current (AC)? “).  Batteries are also used to produce DC electricity (“Teacher’s”). Along with flowing in different directions and being generated in different ways, AC and DC also have different advantages in the transmission system.
    The efficiency and cost of AC and DC traveling through the transmission system allow them both to have an advantage over the other. Transformers within the transmission system can easily ‘step up’ or ‘step down’ AC allowing it to travel at high voltages and used at a lower voltage ("The American Experience | Edison's Miracle of Light | AC - DC: What's the Difference?: Inside “). Because AC is constantly changing direction, the transformers can change the level of voltage at which the AC is traveling through (“Teacher’s”). When DC was originally used in the transmission system, it would lose its power after traveling for about a mile (“The American Experience | Edison's Miracle of Light | AC - DC: What's the Difference?“). A lot of the produced power was lost as heat due to the amount of resistance it met while traveling through the wires (“Teacher’s”). The heat loss would cause a lot of inefficiency in electrical equipment (“Teacher’s”). Although using AC in the transmission system is more efficient, using DC costs less (“Why”). The DC power transmission system requires half as much land, a smaller tower, and cheaper lines (“Why”). DC also has a higher controllability, operators on both sides to control the load flow, and an inherent overload capability whereas AC is uncontrolled, relies on the network, and has a very low overload capability (“Why”).  The DC system can be used underground enabling it to reach locations that are hard, if not impossible, for the AC system to reach (“Why”). Nevertheless, AC is still the main standard for transmission (“AC”).
    AC and DC transmission systems have advantages the other does not, are produced by different generators in different ways, and flow in different directions. AC is used the most in the transmission system, yet most devices run on DC (“AC”). AC has an advantage over DC regarding circuits, generators, and efficiency in the transmission system, but DC receives the advantage over AC when the size of the transmission tower and the cost of the land and wires are considered. Even though AC has more advantages over DC, neither one can do all of the work. They both serve different purposes and are both needed for electricity.

Works Cited

"AC or DC? Should We Switch Our Electric Current? : Greentech Media." Green Technology | Cleantech and Renewable Energy News and Analysis. Web. 02 Oct. 2011.      .
"Direct Current (DC) Electricity by Ron Kurtus - Succeed in Understanding Physics: School for Champions." School for Champions: Online Lessons for Those Seeking Success. Web. 03 Oct. 2011. http://www.school-for-champions.com/science/dc.htm.
"PBS: Tesla - Master of Lightning: Understanding Electricity - AC and DC." PBS: Public Broadcasting Service. Web. 02 Oct. 2011. http://www.pbs.org/tesla/ins/ins_acdc.html.
"PBS: Tesla - Master of Lightning: War of the Currents." PBS: Public Broadcasting Service. Web. 02 Oct. 2011. http://www.pbs.org/tesla/ll/ll_warcur.html.
"Teachers' Domain: AC / DC: What's the Difference?" Teachers' Domain: Home. Web. 02 Oct. 2011. http://www.teachersdomain.org/resource/phy03.sci.phys.mfw.acdc/.
"The American Experience | Edison's Miracle of Light | AC - DC: What's the Difference?" PBS: Public Broadcasting Service. Web. 02 Oct. 2011. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/edison/sfeature/acdc.html.
"The American Experience | Edison's Miracle of Light | AC - DC: What's the Difference?: Inside Generator." PBS: Public Broadcasting Service. Web. 02 Oct. 2011. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/edison/sfeature/acdc_insideacgenerator.html.
"The Current War." Classroom Web Page Information. Web. 03 Oct. 2011. http://staff.fcps.net/rroyster/war.htm.
"What Is Alternating Current?" Welcome to Play-Hookey! Web. 03 Oct. 2011. http://www.play-hookey.com/ac_theory/.
"What Is Alternating Current (AC)? : BASIC AC THEORY." All About Circuits : Free Electric Circuits Textbooks. Web. 03 Oct. 2011. http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_2/chpt_1/1.html.
"Why Are Utilities Switching to High Voltage DC Transmission over Long Lines?" Find Science & Technology Articles, Education Lesson Plans, Tech Tips, Computer Hardware & Software Reviews, News and More at Bright Hub. Web. 02 Oct. 2011. http://www.brighthub.com/engineering/electrical/articles/81644.aspx.