IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008

IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008 is a draft standard focused on testing and performance for optical ground wire (OPGW) used on electric utility power lines. It addresses the technical requirements needed to evaluate how OPGW behaves in overhead line environments where grounding and communications functions must work together. For utilities, engineers, and procurement teams, IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008 can help support consistent assessment of suitability, reliability, and performance expectations.

IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008 overview

This technical document is centered on the testing and performance considerations for OPGW, a cable type commonly used on transmission structures to combine grounding capability with embedded optical communication. The standard is relevant to power, energy, and communications applications because it helps define how the product should be evaluated before use in service. IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008 is therefore useful when comparing designs, reviewing specifications, or checking conformance against expected engineering criteria.

Typical use cases

IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008 is typically used when specifying or reviewing optical ground wire for overhead electric utility networks, especially where fiber optic communication must coexist with line protection functions. It may support equipment selection for transmission corridors, interconnection projects, and utility communications paths that rely on OPGW installed along power lines. The standard is also relevant in test planning for cable construction, mechanical behavior, and performance verification before deployment.

Why this standard matters

In practice, this standard helps improve consistency in how OPGW products are evaluated and compared. Clear testing and performance expectations can reduce procurement risk, support design control, and help utilities confirm that a cable is appropriate for the mechanical and electrical demands of overhead power line service. For projects involving both communications and grounding, IEEE P1138/D13.2, Oct 2008 provides a useful reference for technical review and compliance-focused decision-making.

• Optical ground wire testing
• Performance evaluation for overhead lines
• Utility power line applications
• Combined grounding and fiber optic use
• Specification and compliance review