Shemar High Strength Braced Line Post and Insulated Cross-arms (CICA)

up to 765kV

SHEMAR: Industry Leader in Line Compaction Solutions

Braced line posts have enabled compact transmission lines in the voltage range of 115 kV to 230 kV. Now line compaction is being considered at progressively higher voltages (EHV range) to develop structures with better visual amenities, smaller foot print, narrow right-of-way requirements and the economic benefits of lighter construction.

However, at 345 kV and above voltages as the section lengths increase due to electrical requirements, the mechanical capabilities of standard braced line posts with typical components becomes a limitation. The low working performance restricts span lengths and increase overall project cost and construction efforts.

SHEMAR is a world leader in compact-line composite insulation system design and manufacturing. In cases where the strength capabilities of standard off-the-shelf braced line posts are unable to satisfy customer’s requirements, SHEMAR can offer high strength (HS) braced line posts or composite insulated cross-arms (CICA).

The high strength line compaction solutions include line post core rods greater than 3.5 inches, reinforced line/pole end fittings and hardware as well as three-dimensional composite insulated cross-arms (CICA). The high-strength CICA differs from two-dimensional structures like braced line posts or horizontal Vees. It is composed of at least three insulators positioned in a triangulated configuration, enabling the assembly to withstand significantly higher vertical, transverse, and longitudinal loads. The CICA assemblies can be used on both lattice towers and tubular supports.

SHEMAR’s HS braced line posts and CICA overcomes the limitations and technological gaps of traditional braced line posts or pivoting horizontal Vee. The application of HS braced line posts and CICA deliver the following additional benefits to electric utilities:

  1. Enhance load capacity of transmission lines including longitudinal load security

  2. Cut construction costs by allowing longer span lengths and lesser structures

  3. Enable compaction up to 765 kV

  4. Increase power transmission capacities by allowing heavier conductor bundles

  5. Enable voltage uprating and improve ground clearance in retrofit applications.


345kV High Strength (HS) Braced Line Post Assembly - Class 350

3.5 inch Post and 50 kip Brace Insulator
Reinforced drop-tongue line end fitting and 7-inch bolt circle pole end fitting


345kV High Strength (HS) Braced Line Post Assembly - Class 400

4.3 inch (110 mm) Post and 50 kip Brace Insulator
Reinforced drop-tongue line end fitting and 7-inch bolt circle pole end fitting


345kV High Strength (HS) Braced Line Post Assembly - Class 500

5.1 inch (130 mm) Post and 67 kip Brace Insulator
Reinforced drop-tongue line end fitting and 14-inch bolt circle pole end fitting


345 kV Tripod Composite Insulated Cross-arm (CICA) Assembly - Class 350

2 x 3.5 inch Post and 50 kip Brace Insulator
Reinforced yoke line end fitting and blade flange pole/tower end fitting