Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) and traditional static/shield/earth wires are both used in electrical transmission systems, but they serve different primary functions and have different compositions and benefits.    Here are the key differences between them:

Optical Ground Wire (OPGW)

Function:

Primary Function: Acts as both a grounding conductor and a medium for telecommunication by housing optical fibers.

Secondary Function: Provides protection to the power lines against lightning and electrical surges.

Composition:

Contains optical fibers in a central tube, which are protected by layers of steel or aluminum wires.

The optical fibers enable data transmission, making OPGW useful for utility companies needing communication networks.

Installation:

Installed at the top of power transmission towers.

Requires specialized handling and splicing equipment for the optical fibers.

Advantages:

Combines the functions of grounding and data communication in one cable.

Helps in real-time monitoring and control of the power grid.

Can be used for multiple communication services, including utility operational data, telephony, and internet services.

Cost:

Generally more expensive due to the inclusion of optical fibers and the need for specialized installation.

Traditional Static/Shield/Earth Wires

Function:

Primary Function: Provides grounding and shielding for power transmission lines to protect against lightning strikes and electrical surges.

Secondary Function: In some cases, they can carry electrical currents to ground faults.

Composition:

Typically made of steel, aluminum, or a composite of both, depending on the mechanical and electrical requirements.

Does not contain optical fibers.

Installation:

Also installed at the top of power transmission towers.

Simpler installation compared to OPGW, as it doesn't involve fiber optic handling.

Advantages:

Lower cost compared to OPGW since it only serves as a grounding and shielding wire.

Simpler and faster to install and maintain.

Cost:

More economical due to its simpler composition and installation process.

Summary of Differences

Functionality:

OPGW: Grounding + telecommunication.

Traditional Earth Wire: Grounding + shielding.

Composition:

OPGW: Contains optical fibers.

Traditional Earth Wire: Steel or aluminum, without optical fibers.

Installation Complexity:

OPGW: More complex, requires fiber optic expertise.

Traditional Earth Wire: Simpler, does not require fiber optic skills.

Cost:

OPGW: Higher due to dual functionality and specialized installation.

Traditional Earth Wire: Lower due to single functionality and simpler installation.

Applications:

OPGW: Suitable for modern grids requiring communication capabilities.

Traditional Earth Wire: Used where only grounding and shielding are needed, without telecommunication requirements.

In conclusion, OPGW offers added value through its telecommunication capabilities, making it ideal for modern power grids that need integrated communication solutions. Traditional static/shield/earth wires are sufficient for basic grounding and protection tasks, offering a more cost-effective solution for systems that do not require additional communication functionalities.