IEEE 1138-2009

IEEE 1138-2009 is a technical standard for testing and performance of optical ground wire (OPGW) used on electric utility power lines. It addresses how this combined grounding and fiber-optic conductor should be evaluated for mechanical, electrical, and optical behavior in service conditions. For utilities, manufacturers, and project teams, it provides a common basis for comparing products and verifying that OPGW designs can support both line protection and communications functions reliably.

IEEE 1138-2009 overview

This standard focuses on the performance and test requirements associated with OPGW, a specialized overhead line component that integrates grounding capability with optical fibers. IEEE 1138-2009 helps define how the product should be assessed for use in power transmission environments where conductor loading, weather exposure, and line installation stresses can affect long-term operation. As a redline edition, it is particularly useful for reviewing revisions and understanding how the document has changed over time.

Typical use cases

The standard is commonly used when specifying or evaluating OPGW for new transmission lines, line reconductoring projects, and utility communication paths that run along power corridors. It is relevant to procurement teams comparing conductor constructions, test laboratories performing qualification work, and engineers checking compatibility with utility grounding and fiber-optic network needs. IEEE 1138-2009 is also useful during acceptance testing, design review, and asset documentation for overhead line systems.

Why this standard matters

IEEE 1138-2009 matters because OPGW must perform two critical roles at once: electrical grounding and optical signal support. Clear testing and performance criteria help reduce installation risk, improve product consistency, and support more confident procurement decisions. For utilities and suppliers, the standard can also aid compliance checks, limit ambiguity in specifications, and provide a common reference for verifying that the cable will meet practical operating expectations on power lines.

• Optical ground wire testing requirements
• Performance for overhead utility power lines
• Mechanical, electrical, and optical evaluation
• Redline reference for revision review