Final answer:
Periodic maintenance of wire liners and inspection for kinks are crucial for the longevity and reliability of overhead power lines made of aluminium and steel to prevent corrosion and service disruptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Periodic maintenance of wire liners, cleaning, and inspection for kinks is essential for overhead power lines. These lines, often made of aluminium with a steel core, must withstand environmental stress and physical strain.
By maintaining them, we prevent corrosion and reduce the risk of service interruptions caused by broken or damaged lines. Corrosion is a reaction with oxygen and water in the air, leading to the material deterioration.
Cleaning helps to remove any materials that may have built up on the lines, which could facilitate corrosion or add weight, increasing the likelihood of stretching or snapping.
Inspections are crucial to identify any kinks or weak points that could compromise the line's integrity. Furthermore, although materials like gold that resist corrosion could be used in wires, their high cost and practicality issues make aluminium and steel more common choices.
Therefore, the prevention of corrosion through maintenance is far more cost-effective and essential for the longevity and reliability of power transmission systems.