The implementation of stranded conductors in flexible gas-insulated transmission lines (FGILs) requires field intensity minimization as well as field irregularity suppression in order to avoid dielectric breakdown. Moreover, the interdependence of enclosure and conductor sizes of FGILs regarding electrostatic aspects necessitate critical consideration of their dimensional specifications. In this research, geometric and electrostatic field optimization for FGILs regarding stranded conductors is performed. In addition, the effect of conductor irregularity on field dispersion is analyzed, and a semiconducting film (SCF)-coated stranded conductor is proposed as a potential candidate for FGILs. Considering the performed optimized design, an 11 kV scaled-down model of a 132-kV FGIL was also fabricated in order to practically analyze its electrostatic and dielectric performances regarding simple and SCF-coated stranded conductors. Simulation and experimental investigations revealed that the SCF-coated stranded conductor significantly minimized the field irregularity of the FGIL along with improving in its dielectric breakdown characteristics.

Land shortage in metropolitan vicinities entails subsurface implementation of power transmission lines (PTLs) which demand structural flexibility, as well as substantial load bearing capability. Thus, development of a flexible gas insulated transmission line (FGIL) necessitates its strength degradation analysis, regarding the synergistic effect of aging and mechanical loadings. Moreover, correlation of conductor and enclosure dimensions of FGIL apropos field distribution, requires careful consideration regarding their dimensional specifications. In this research, a comprehensive electro-mechanical design is performed for the proposed flexible-thermoplastic-enclosure of a 132 kV FGIL by considering the synergistic impact of time and temperature-based aging, along with the effect of external and internal loadings, such as dead load, live load and internal gas pressure. Additionally, a recursive design algorithm for the proposed scheme regarding electro-mechanical aspects, along with aging perspectives is developed. Comparative analysis of proposed and conventional schemes regarding electro-mechanical and aging aspects revealed that the proposed enclosure exhibits the required structural strength, as well as flexibility for trenchless subsurface application of FGILs in metropolitan areas.