Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset Management Plan

Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset Management Plan D13/48945 Issue 1.0 October 2013 Approved Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset...
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Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset Management Plan D13/48945 Issue 1.0 October 2013

Approved

Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset Management Plan Issue 1.0, October 2013.

Contact

This document is the responsibility of the Network Performance and Strategy Team, Transend Networks Pty Ltd, ABN 57 082586 892. Please contact the Network Performance and Strategy Manager with any queries or suggestions.

Next Review

This document has a normal scheduled review frequency of 2.5 years from date of last approval.

Responsibilities 

Implementation

All Transend staff and contractors.



Compliance

All group managers.

Minimum Requirements

The requirements set out in Transend’s documents are minimum requirements that must be complied with by Transend staff, contractors, and other consultants. The end user is expected to implement any practices which may not be stated but which can be reasonably be regarded as good practices relevant to the objective of this document.

This document is protected by copyright vested in Transend Networks Pty Ltd. No part of the document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means including, without limitation, electronic, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Transend. No information embodied in the documents that is not already in the public domain shall be communicated in any manner whatsoever to any third party without the prior written consent of Transend. Any breach of the above obligations may be restrained by legal proceedings seeking remedies including injunctions, damages and costs.

Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset Management Plan Issue 1.0, October 2013

Record of revisions Section number

Detail New Document

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Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Asset Management Plan Issue 1.0, October 2013

Table of contents Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................... 8 1

2

General .................................................................................................................................... 10 1.1

Introduction ................................................................................................................ 10

1.2

Purpose ....................................................................................................................... 10

1.3

Scope .......................................................................................................................... 10

1.4

Objectives ................................................................................................................... 11

1.5

Strategic context ......................................................................................................... 11

1.6

Asset management information system ...................................................................... 12

Telecommunications Site Infrastructure description .......................................................... 14 2.1

Related documents and references ............................................................................. 15

2.2

Asset type ................................................................................................................... 15

2.2.1

Site tenure ................................................................................................................... 15

2.2.2

Site Access Tracks...................................................................................................... 15

2.2.3

Site security ................................................................................................................ 16

2.2.4

Earthing and Lightning Protection ............................................................................. 17

2.2.5

Antenna Support Structures........................................................................................ 17

2.2.6

Buildings and Equipment Rooms ............................................................................... 20

2.2.7

AC Mains Supply ....................................................................................................... 22

2.2.8

DC Supply Systems .................................................................................................... 22

2.2.9

Waveguide Dehydrators ............................................................................................. 23

2.3

Age profile .................................................................................................................. 23

2.3.1

Site Access Tracks...................................................................................................... 24

2.3.2

Site Security ............................................................................................................... 24

2.3.3

Earthing and Lightning Protection ............................................................................. 25

2.3.4

Antenna Support Structures........................................................................................ 25

2.3.5

Repeater Site Buildings .............................................................................................. 25

2.3.6

AC Mains Supply ....................................................................................................... 26

2.3.7

DC Supply Systems .................................................................................................... 26

2.3.8

Waveguide Dehydrators ............................................................................................. 28

2.4

Economic life ............................................................................................................. 28

2.5

Site infrastructure functionality .................................................................................. 29

2.6

Makes and Models...................................................................................................... 29

2.6.1

Antenna Support Structures........................................................................................ 30 Page 4 of 58

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3

4

5

6

2.6.2

Repeaters Site Buildings ............................................................................................ 31

2.6.3

DC Power Systems ..................................................................................................... 32

2.6.4

Waveguide Dehydrators ............................................................................................. 33

Condition monitoring practice .............................................................................................. 35 3.1

Defect management practices ..................................................................................... 36

3.2

Asset Condition Summary.......................................................................................... 36

3.2.1

DC Supply Systems .................................................................................................... 36

3.2.2

Tower Surface Rusting ............................................................................................... 37

3.2.3

Concrete Hut Panel Joint Seals .................................................................................. 37

3.2.4

Communications Room ........................................................... 38

3.2.5

Site Access Roads ...................................................................................................... 38

3.2.6

Waveguide Dehydrators ............................................................................................. 38

3.3

Special operational and design issues ........................................................................ 38

3.3.1

Operational issues....................................................................................................... 38

3.3.2

Design issues .............................................................................................................. 40

Asset Performance .................................................................................................................. 41 4.1

Key performance indicators ....................................................................................... 41

4.1.1

Site Tenure ................................................................................................................. 41

4.1.2

Site Access Tracks...................................................................................................... 41

4.1.3

Site Security ............................................................................................................... 42

4.1.4

Earthing and Lightning Protection ............................................................................. 42

4.1.5

Antenna Support Structures........................................................................................ 42

4.1.6

Buildings .................................................................................................................... 42

4.1.7

AC Mains Supply ....................................................................................................... 43

4.1.8

DC Supply Systems .................................................................................................... 43

4.1.9

Waveguide Dehydrators ............................................................................................. 43

4.2

Benchmarking ............................................................................................................ 43

Risk .......................................................................................................................................... 44 5.1

Business risks ............................................................................................................. 44

5.2

Asset risk .................................................................................................................... 44

5.2.1

Likelihood of failure ................................................................................................... 44

5.2.2

Consequence of Failure .............................................................................................. 44

5.2.3

Risk analysis and mitigating strategies ...................................................................... 45

Demand Analysis .................................................................................................................... 46 6.1

Planned augmentation ................................................................................................ 46

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6.2 7

8

Asset specific implications ......................................................................................... 46

Lifecycle Management Plan ................................................................................................... 47 7.1

Issues summary .......................................................................................................... 47

7.2

Maintenance plan ....................................................................................................... 47

7.2.1

Preventive maintenance .............................................................................................. 47

7.2.2

Corrective Maintenance ............................................................................................. 48

7.2.3

Technical support ....................................................................................................... 48

7.3

Capital plan................................................................................................................. 48

7.3.1

Network Strategy ........................................................................................................ 49

7.3.2

Asset Documentation ................................................................................................. 49

7.3.3

Asset Replacement Strategy ....................................................................................... 49

7.3.4

Asset Investment Program.......................................................................................... 51

7.3.5

Works in Progress ...................................................................................................... 52

7.3.6

Regulatory Considerations ......................................................................................... 52

7.4

Disposal plan .............................................................................................................. 52

Financial Summary ................................................................................................................ 53 8.1

Operational expenditure ............................................................................................. 53

8.2

Capital expenditure..................................................................................................... 53

8.3

Investment evaluation................................................................................................. 54

Appendix A –Asset Condition Summary ....................................................................................... 55 Appendix B – Telecommunications Bearer Network ................................................................... 57

List of figures Figure 1 – Asset Management Document Framework ...................................................................... 12 Figure 2 – Steel Lattice Telecommunications Tower ........................................................................ 18 Figure 3 – Steel Lattice Monopole ..................................................................................................... 19 Figure 4 – Tapered Hollow Steel Monopole ...................................................................................... 19 Figure 5 – Transend’s Stobie Pole arrangements............................................................................... 19 Figure 6 – Pre-fabricated Concrete Hut ............................................................................................. 20 Figure 7 – A typical Polystyrene Sandwich Hut ................................................................................ 21 Figure 8 – A transportable steel clad hut. .......................................................................................... 21 Figure 9 –

Brick Building ......................................................................................... 22

Figure 10 – Age Profile of Telecommunications Site Access Tracks ............................................... 24 Figure 11 – Building Age Profile ....................................................................................................... 26 Figure 12 – Battery System Age Profile ............................................................................................ 27 Page 6 of 58

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Figure 13 – Age Profile of DC Rectifier and Converter Assets......................................................... 27 Figure 14 – Age profile of Waveguide Dehydrators.......................................................................... 28 Figure 15 – Antenna support structure locations by structure type ................................................... 31 Figure 16 – Repeater Site Building types by location ....................................................................... 32 Figure 17 – DC Rectifier and Converter systems by Location .......................................................... 33 Figure 18 – Waveguide Dehydrator Types by Location .................................................................... 34

List of tables Table 1 – Expected design life of Telecommunications Infrastructure Assets .................................. 23 Table 2 – List of asset category economic lives ................................................................................ 28 Table 3 – Standard communications site infrastructure models ........................................................ 30 Table 4 – Condition focus of Telecommunications Infrastructure Assets ......................................... 35 Table 5 – Battery systems pending replacement ................................................................................ 36 Table 6 – Battery systems expected to require replacement within 5 years ...................................... 37 Table 7 – Key Performance Indicator for Site Tenure ....................................................................... 41 Table 8 – Key Performance Indicator for Access Roads ................................................................... 42 Table 9 – Key Performance Indicator for Earthing and Lightning Protection ................................... 42 Table 10 – Key Performance Indicator for Antenna Support Structures ........................................... 42 Table 11 – Key Performance Indicator for Telecommunications Buildings ..................................... 43 Table 12 – Key Performance Indicators for AC Mains Supply ......................................................... 43 Table 13 – Key Performance Indicator for DC Power supply systems ............................................. 43 Table 14 – Asset category replacement and installation program ..................................................... 52 Table 15 – Bearer Network – References to operational budget figures ........................................... 53 Table 16 – Bearer Network – Maintenance Breakdown .................................................................... 53 Table 17 – Civil Asset Condition Summary ...................................................................................... 55 Table 18 – Waveguide Dehydrator and Power Supply Condition Summaries .................................. 56

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Executive Summary This document is Transend Network’s asset management plan covering the assets defined as Telecommunications Site Infrastructure assets for the following ten years. The objective of this plan is to maintain business risk to within acceptable limits by achieving reliable asset performance at minimal life-cycle cost. The strategies included in this asset management plan have been developed taking into account past asset performance, good telecommunications and electricity industry practice and the need for prudent investment to optimise the life-cycle costs, to optimise the overall performance of the telecommunications system and to access the additional value created on the network through the provision of telecommunications services to non-prescribed customers. Asset condition has been based on assessment by field staff. The condition assessment reports focus on the present performance of the assets. The physical condition of the assets is the dominant driver for the following site infrastructure:     

Roads; Fences; Antenna support structures; Buildings; and Earthing systems.

The operational expenditure for the site infrastructure is undertaken through preventative maintenance procedures which occur every 6 months to monitor battery performance with 2 yearly full battery discharge testing and physical infrastructure monitoring. The capital investment program has been developed for the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure to address the risks, design and performance issues associated with the site infrastructure and the bearer network. Where possible it is Transend’s strategy to maintain a high degree of standardisation to decrease the diversity of equipment types and makes without sacrificing the overall functionality of the network. This will reduce the training cost incurred by maintenance staff to familiarise with new equipment. The strategy is of particular relevance with the DC rectifier systems and the Waveguide dehydrators although can be applied to a certain extent to the other asset sub-categories. The replacement program outlined in the asset management plan looks to address the poor performing assets and the assets which are currently not supported by the supplier (in terms of the power supply and waveguide equipment). The program acknowledges the different asset lives of the asset sub-categories listed in this Asset Management Plan and the different drivers for replacement. This asset management plan presents supporting information for the telecommunications capital program and provides evidence that the replacements will mitigate the business risks presented by the existing infrastructure assets and minimise future maintenance costs. The plan allows for the work to be integrated with other capital works. The capital works outlined in this asset management plan are provided through the capital program for the Site Infrastructure covering the requirements for both prescribed and non-prescribed services. As the underpinning infrastructure supporting the reliability of the bearer network, the site infrastructure plays a vital role in minimising the telecommunications network risk and in turn the risks to the transmission system. The risks associated with system security and transmission system performance are compelling reasons not to delay the planned replacements of the infrastructure assets. The strategies detailed in this plan are aimed at minimising Transend’s business risks by enhancing the overall telecommunications system performance. This translates directly to greater Page 8 of 58

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reliability of the telecommunications services provided to Transend’s operational systems and improved service levels to the wider telecommunication business customer base.

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1

General

1.1 Introduction Transend’s vision is to be a leader in developing and maintaining sustainable networks. In keeping with this vision the board has identified the strategic performance objectives to improve business processes, and strategies to improve productivity and efficiency gains, as key goals upon which overall business performance enhancement must be based. Transend actions its philosophies for asset management process through asset management plans. These documents disaggregate the network infrastructure into subsets of like assets. An asset management plan is available for each subset. This asset management plan is one of a set of plans that discuss the basis behind Transend Network’s operation and capital expenditures. Transend aggregates its network-wide asset management philosophies and action plans into a biannually published Transmission System Management Plan (TSMP) that is made available to key stakeholders, including technical and economic regulators. The strategies included in this asset management plan have been developed taking into account past asset performance, good electricity industry practice and the need for prudent investment to optimise the asset performance. These asset management plan strategies also adhere to Transend’s business strategy for 2012–13 which is to look after our customers, drive down costs, and influence the changing industry framework.

1.2 Purpose This asset management plan defines the asset management objectives and strategies specific to Telecommunications Site Infrastructure for the years 2013 to 2022. This plan reports on Transend’s assessment of work needed to achieve the service level and performance goals for the asset class at least life-cycle cost.

1.3 Scope Telecommunications site infrastructure encompasses all of the assets which enable the operation of the: 

Telecommunications Bearer Network Assets;



Telecommunications Ethernet Network Assets; and



Telecommunications Telephony Network Assets.

This asset management plan addresses the site infrastructure assets which comprise communications repeater sites, and equipment rooms within Transend substations and The boundary of this asset category is: 

The site boundary for communications repeater sites, right of ways, and easements;



The equipment room in substations and power stations where a room has been allocated for communications;



The telecommunications cabinets (including power supplies and battery racks) where the cabinets are located alongside other electrical equipment racks.

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This asset management plan specifically includes the following asset groups: a

Site tenure – ownership and lease arrangement for Transend’s occupation of the site;

b

Site access tracks – Roads providing vehicular access to repeater sites including boom gates and security controls;

c

Vegetation management;

d

Site security – Fences, alarming and video surveillance systems;

e

Earthing and Lightning protection;

f

Antenna support structures;

g

Buildings and equipment rooms;

h

AC Mains supply;

i

DC power systems; and

j

Waveguide dehydrators.

1.4 Objectives The objectives of this asset management plan are to: a

present an overview of the asset category population;

b

manage business risk presented by the assets to within acceptable limits;

c

achieve reliable asset performance consistent with prescribed service standards;

d

quantify the risks specific to the assets and identify corresponding risk mitigation strategies;

e

ensure the effective and consistent management and coordination of asset management activities relating to the assets throughout their life-cycle;

f

demonstrate that the assets are being managed prudently throughout their life-cycle;

g

ensure asset management issues and strategies as they relate to the assets are taken into account in decision making and planning; and

h

define future operation and capital expenditure requirements of the assets.

1.5 Strategic context This asset management plan is part of a suite of documentation that supports the achievement of Transend’s strategic performance objectives and, in turn, its mission. The asset management plans define the issues and strategies relating to transmission system assets and detail the specific activities that need to be undertaken to address the identified issues. Figure 1 shows the Transend documents that support the asset management framework, referenced to the corresponding International Infrastructure Management Manual (IIMM) documentation and/or process, adapted to meet Transend’s specific needs. The diagram highlights the existence of, and interdependence between, strategic, tactical and operational planning documentation.

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Figure 1 – Asset Management Document Framework

Corporate Plan Vision, Mission, Performance Objectives, Areas of Strategic Focus, Grid Vision Policies Safety, Environment, Risk Management

Asset Management Policy

Asset Management Policy

Asset Management Plan(s)

Asset Management Enablers and Controls  Structure, authority and responsibilities  Outsourcing of AM activities  Training, awareness and competence  Communication, participation and consultation  AM system documentation  Information management  Risk management  Legal and other rqmts  Change management

Implementation of asset management plan(s)  Life cycle activities: construct/acquire, utilise, maintain, renew/dispose  Tools, facilities and equipment

Performance assessment and improvement

1.6

Asset Management Plans  Renewal Expenditure Profiles  Condition and Risk Profiles

Management Review

Management Review

Operational Planning

Tactical Planning

Asset Management Objectives

Transmission System Management Plan Asset Management Framework Asset Management Strategy Asset Management Objectives Planning & Service Delivery Asset Management Support Systems Integrated Investment Profiles Asset Class Profiles

        



Area Development Plans Augmentation Expenditure Profiles

Asset Management Enablers and Controls Structure, authority and responsibilities Outsourcing of AM activities Training, awareness and competence Communication, participation and consultation AM system documentation Information management Risk management Technical standards, Legal and other rqmts Change management

  

Do

      

Integrated Works Program Consolidation and Optimisation of Works Plans Works Planning and Scheduling Outage Planning

Check

Asset Management Strategy

Act

Strategic Planning

Organisational Strategic Plan Vision, Mission, Values, Business Policies, Goals, Organisational Strategies

Plan

Proposed Transend documentation and systems

PAS 55 Asset Management System Framework

Performance assessment and improvement  Performance Reports -QPR, Regulatory and Customer  Incident Investigation Reports

Asset management information system

Transend maintains an asset management information system (AMIS) that contains detailed information relating to the asset category population. AMIS is a combination of people processes, and technology applied to provide the essential outputs for effective asset management, such as: a

reduced risk;

b

enhanced transmission system performance;

c

enhanced compliance;

d

effective knowledge management;

e

effective resource management; and

f

optimum infrastructure investment.

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AMIS is a tool that interlinks asset management processes through the entire asset life-cycle and provides a robust platform for extraction of relevant asset information. Telecommunications assets are not currently included in the AMIS. A program is being started to transition telecommunications assets from the existing Excel/Access databases into a WASP telecommunications asset register. This work is scheduled for 2013/14. Some telecommunications assets are currently included in the communications asset database V2.4 which was set up when the telecommunications group was a part of Hydro Tasmania. Unfortunately, some of the assets are not included in the database and the details of many of the assets which are included are not accurately recorded. In the absence of an accurate asset database, summary information for this plan has been assembled from a range of sources included asset registers, customer invoices, maintenance service agreements, physical inspection and staff involved in the installations and maintenance of the equipment.

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2

Telecommunications Site Infrastructure description

Transend owns and manages a telecommunications network comprising 19 Microwave backbone sites, 18 smaller repeater sites, 4 passive reflectors, 62 optical fibre sites, 34 substations, 34 power generation and headworks locations, and 8 office locations as illustrated in Drawing A2-6644 (Bearer Network Diagram) provided in Appendix B. The telecommunications network is the base platform upon which the Tasmanian Electricity Supply Industry (TESI) realises its communications needs. The network is a fully integrated platform consisting of Microwave Radio, and Optical Fibre bearers supporting the provision of SCADA, Protection, Mobile Radio, Data and voice telephony services across the industry. Some of the difficult to access locations utilise low bandwidth power line carrier systems as either their primary or backup communications bearer. The network is considered a critical operational component of the Tasmanian Electricity Network. The bearer network is designed and operated to provide high performance in terms of the circuit availability. In maintaining compliance with National Electricity Rules, diversity options are provided where necessary to further increase the system performance. The network is an integrated system of assets. The site infrastructure provides the secure site facilities upon which the bearer network operates, and the performance of the bearer network is directly affected by the performance of the assets covered by this asset management plan. These assets are categorised to their functional types as detailed below: 

Site tenure – ownership and lease arrangement for Transend’s occupation of the site;



Site Security – Boundary fence type and configurations and video security for the remote communications repeater sites;



Earthing and Lightning protection – Management of the underground Earthmat (at communications repeater sites) and the management of lightning protection at both repeater sites, and specific to the telecommunications assets located at substations and power generation sites;



Antenna support structures – including towers, poles, wall mounted antenna brackets, and passive reflectors;



Buildings and equipment rooms – Buildings located at remote repeater sites and equipment rooms at substations and power station sites. This includes the cable trays, equipment cabinets and other aspects of the equipment room fitouts;



AC Mains supply – includes the site connections, generator supply, surge protection and the feeder number in order to manage localised issues and risks;



DC power systems – includes the site DC rectifiers, batteries and DC-DC converter used for powering the telecommunications equipment; and



Waveguide dehydrators – the air compressor systems and static desiccant to ensure moisture free operation of the sites antenna feeders.

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2.1 Related documents and references Technical requirements for new asset category are detailed in the following standard specification: D04/36430

Security Fences and Gates Standard

D02/93

Substation Lightning Protection and Earthing Standard

-

ARRB Group – Unsealed Roads Manual: Guidelines to good practice – 3rd edition, March 2009

The following Asset Registers and fault databases have assisted in developing this Asset Management Plan: Communications Services Asset Database ( Work Order Management System (

accessed 21/11/2012) , accessed 21/11/2012)

2.2 Asset type 2.2.1 Site tenure Transend has defined rights over land on which telecommunications infrastructure has been constructed, or in some cases, is proposed for installation. These tenures establish the legal right for Transend to construct, maintain, develop, access and remove its telecommunications and associated infrastructure necessary for the safe and secure transmission of electrical energy. Transend’s current tenure of the land may be one of the following depending on the site: a

Freehold title where Transend is the registered land owner;

b

Site lease; or

c

Site license to operate a telecommunications facility.

2.2.2 Site Access Tracks Access tracks are required by Transend to facilitate the movement of vehicles and other resources for the purpose of construction, maintenance and other operational activities associated with the telecommunications network. Transend utilise over 40km of roads for this purpose. Due to the nature of telecommunications, access tracks provide access to higher altitudes to provide a superior vantage point to operate microwave radio facilities. This ensures that line of sight is available for robust radio communications. Access tracks are provided either from the nearest public or private road. The tracks are constructed to a Forestry Class 4 standard1. Site access tracks are not provided for general public access and therefore are not designed to the same standards that apply to public roads. In order to minimise road surface degradation as a result of unauthorised use, high security boom gates are provided on the track near the entrance from the public road. Access tracks must be maintained in a ‘serviceable’ condition so as to allow maintenance vehicles to access the telecommunications assets at times of emergency. By the very nature of emergencies it is not possible to plan these times, so serviceability of the tracks is based on accessibility at any time.

1

Forest Practices Code of Tasmania 2000

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Vehicular access varies significantly. This affects what maintenance vehicles/cranes can be utilised. There are frequently seasonal restrictions of access to some areas due to snow, flooding, wildlife protection requirements, bushfire activity and occasions of high wind. Maintaining the serviceability of access tracks requires attention to watercourse crossings and drainage infrastructure. Very few bridges are utilised, however culverts of varying construction are common. Access track maintenance requires attention to: a

effective drainage management;

b

maintaining the surface in a serviceable condition;

c

clearing debris and fallen trees from the tracks; and

d

sensitively trimming embankments and verges of undergrowth.

2.2.3 Site security Restricted and controlled access to Transend’s telecommunications sites is paramount to site and telecommunications network security. Site access is controlled by a key system. The key system is scheduled for replacement with a current registered key system. Transend’s telecommunications sites are restricted access locations with specific hazards relevant to the electricity industry and the telecommunications industry. In maintaining the operational security of the facility and a physical barrier for the safety of persons, a security fence is installed around the compound, and in some locations video surveillance has been installed. 2.2.3.1

Perimeter fencing

The remote telecommunications sites are provided with a chain mesh perimeter fence with double width vehicle access gate allowing (where possible) for vehicle access to the front of the building. All new fencing and existing fence upgrades are being installed to comply with the substation Security Fences and Gates Standard2. The fencing covered by this asset management plan is only those fences at dedicated telecommunications sites. 2.2.3.2

Security Alarm Monitoring

Transend’s telecommunications system monitoring relies on the Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) located at each of the telecommunications sites3. These PLCs also allow for the connection of site security alarms for central monitoring. Each of the sites is fitted with a door alarm and a temperature sensor. The site PLC is considered in the Telecommunications Bearer Network Asset Management Plan. 2.2.3.3

Video Surveillance

Historically, Transend’s telecommunications sites have not been provided with video surveillance, however with recent technology advancements the bandwidth requirements of video surveillance systems has reduced, and system installations are more feasible. An easy-to-implement system has been installed at as a trial site. This system is low cost and does not interface with Transend’s wider substation security system.

2

Trim D04/36430 Transend Networks, Security Fences and Gates Standard

3

See Trim D12/53567 Telecommunications Bearer Network Asset Management Plan

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In 2011, Transend engaged the Counter Terrorism Unit of Tasmania Police to undertake a security assessment4 of key facilities in Transend’s telecommunications network. One of the recommendations for further improvement of site security is the implementation of video surveillance. In addressing the needs of this recommendation, Transend’s security policy may need to be modified to incorporate video surveillance for telecommunications infrastructure sites. 2.2.3.4

Tower Anti-Climb Barrier

The telecommunications towers are provided with a locked physical barrier to prevent unauthorised access to the tower.

2.2.4 Earthing and Lightning Protection Adequate system earthing is critical to the successful operation of a telecommunications system. Equipotential bonding of the various components on site can improve the overall system performance. All equipment within the building has an earth connected to a common earthing bar to maintain the equipotential bond. The equipment is attached to the site earth mat. The earth mat provides a critical function for the dissipation of lightning across the site as well as for providing the common reference potential for all of the equipment. The lightning protection system includes: 

The earthmat;



Earth electrodes;



Lightning rod and any dedicated earthing down conductors; and



The tower.

All system earthing connections must be maintained as good quality connections (without corrosion) in order to provide an effective lightning protection system.

2.2.5 Antenna Support Structures Transend’s telecommunications sites are used predominantly because of Transend’s reliance on microwave radio for the provision of telecommunications. Transend utilise a variety of towers upon which microwave antennas are placed. These vary in height, structure and design depending on the requirements of the site. 2.2.5.1

Steel Lattice Towers

Steel Lattice towers are used extensively in Transend’s telecommunications sites. The steel lattice towers have sufficient rigidity to mount numerous antennas without compromising the radio link integrity. Figure 2 shows a typical steel lattice telecommunications tower. The towers consist of numerous steel members jointed with plates and bolts for structural strength. All steelwork is galvanised for corrosion protection. There are various designs of lattice towers ranging in height from 10m to 50m ( Tower). The steel lattice towers have fixed climbing ladders (usually with a cage) for easy access to the various platforms and all of the ladders have a certified Latchways© climbing system installed. In order to minimise corrosion, vegetation is kept clear of lattice tower base steelwork.

4

Trim D11/110681 Tasmania Police, Telecommunications Site Security Assessment,

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Figure 2 – Steel Lattice Telecommunications Tower

Tower 2.2.5.2

Monopole

A monopole is a free standing support structure with a single footing attachment. Transend’s use of Monopoles is at locations where the antenna wind loading at a site is low. Two styles of monopole are in use: 

Steel lattice monopole; and



Tapered hollow steel monopole.

Figure 3 shows a typical steel lattice monopole with the single footing attachment and multiple steel members attached by bolts. The tower is galvanised. Climbing of the steel lattice monopole is via pegs on one corner, ensuring attachment to the latchways climbing system at all times. Figure 4 shows a typical tapered hollow steel monopole. The pole is galvanised and access to the antenna is only provided using an elevated work platform or crane.

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Figure 3 – Steel Lattice Monopole

2.2.5.3

Figure 4 – Tapered Hollow Steel Monopole

Concrete Stobie Poles

Concrete Stobie poles have been installed in the past for the shorter antenna mounting poles with a low antenna wind loading. The tapered hollow steel monopole is now typically used in preference to the Stobie poles as a more suitable option for larger microwave antennas. Transend’s telecommunications network utilises Stobie poles as single poles for antenna mounting, or as two poles with a platform and mounting arrangement. Figure 5 shows the two antenna mounting arrangements of Stobie poles in use by Transend. Figure 5 – Transend’s Stobie Pole arrangements

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2.2.6 Buildings and Equipment Rooms Secured equipment housing is a requirement for the successful operation of the telecommunications network. This is achieved in a variety of ways: 1

Dedicated equipment huts – usually at telecommunications repeater sites;

2

Dedicated equipment rooms – usually within

3

Equipment racks in a common equipment room – usually within substations.

and some substations; or

The equipment huts and rooms are fitted with dedicated communications cable runways, rack suites and 48V DC power. Where required, dedicated optical fibre ducts and ethernet cable ducts are provided. Dedicated conduits and ducting are also used to provide the physical separation needed between telecommunications and power cabling as required by ACMA rules. Where the communications equipment is installed in a common equipment room, the communications rack is fully self-contained with integrated 48V DC power supply included. Temperature monitoring is provided in the equipment rooms utilising the Room Temperature Transmitter. Some units are also installed within closed equipment racks. The management of these sensors requires the sensor operation to be extended with replacement following the asset failure. There are four types of equipment huts in use by Transend. 1

Pre-fabricated concrete huts;

2

Transportable polystyrene sandwich huts;

3

Transportable steel clad huts; and

4

Brick building.

2.2.6.1

Pre-fabricated Concrete Huts

The pre-fabricated concrete huts are the main equipment shelters deployed throughout the network providing a good environmental stability inside the hut and a high level of security. Figure 6 shows a typical concrete equipment shelter. Figure 6 – Pre-fabricated Concrete Hut

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2.2.6.2

Transportable Polystyrene Sandwich Huts

The transportable polystyrene sandwich huts are a prefabricated hut constructed with steel clad polystyrene panels for the walls and ceiling and typically utilising a standard wooden floor. The huts are typically positioned on plinths. These huts are limited in space and are used for some of the smaller repeater sites only. Figure 7 – A typical Polystyrene Sandwich Hut

2.2.6.3

Transportable Steel Clad Hut

The transportable Steel Clad huts (seen in Figure 8) are the original communications repeater huts installed over 30 years ago. The huts are small and the internal environment varies with the exterior ambient temperature. Only 5 transportable steel clad huts remain – at and The hut at is currently being replaced with a larger prefabricated concrete shelter. Figure 8 – A transportable steel clad hut.

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2.2.6.4

Brick building

(in particular), a shared building is on site with separate access for each of the individual users. The building is of brick construction and Transend owns and occupies two rooms in the building, and other state government agencies own and occupy the other rooms at the site. The building is shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 –

Brick Building

2.2.7 AC Mains Supply All of the communications sites are provided with an AC mains connection from or The AC supply is used to power the lights and temperature control at site, the DC power supply system, the waveguide dehydrator and other non-critical systems at the site. In some cases, the AC supply is provided as a non-metered supply.

2.2.8 DC Supply Systems The telecommunications system operates on -48V DC power with a minimum of 24 hours battery backup (48 hours for remote, difficult to access sites) provided for critical systems. All telecommunications sites are provided with DC rectifiers and batteries according to the site design. Some existing sites utilise DC-DC converters to operate the 48V from a substation or 125V DC system. New installations will not use DC-DC converters because they provide a single point of failure. The batteries used in the telecommunications systems are sealed lead acid type batteries of either the Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) or Gel-electrolyte construction. The provision of redundancy at telecommunications sites also requires batteries to be deployed in a duplicated scenario with A and B supplies.

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The following models of DC Rectifiers are used:

In addition to the 48V DC rectifiers, a small number of sites are provided with DC-DC converter systems operating from the site 125V DC batteries.  

Converter System Converter System

2.2.9 Waveguide Dehydrators Radio Frequency (RF) signals experience abnormal attenuation when the RF path is presented with excessive moisture – this includes in the feeder cables and antenna feed-horn (illuminator). Waveguide dehydrators provide clean dry air for feeder pressurisation and are used to ensure that no moisture is present in the microwave RF feeder sections of the radio systems. This is achieved by utilising a static moisture desiccant, an air compressor or a combination of the two connected to the waveguide feeder through the connector flange. Transend currently utilise the waveguide compressor at larger sites to service all of the feeders on the site, and the combined system on the smaller sites. Some sites use only a static desiccant canister on each individual waveguide.

2.3 Age profile The asset life cycles of telecommunications site infrastructure varies depending on the type of equipment. Table 1 lists the asset types in this asset management plan alongside the expected design life of the assets. Table 1 – Expected design life of Telecommunications Infrastructure Assets Asset Description

Asset Design Life

Site Access tracks

20 Years

Fences and gates

20 Years

Surveillance Systems

10 Years

Earthing / Lightning systems

30 Years

Steel Lattice Towers

45 Years

Monopoles

45 Years

Concrete Stobie Poles

45 Years

Prefabricated Concrete Hut

45 Years

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Transportable Polystyrene Sandwich Hut

20 Years

Transportable steel clad hut

30 Years

Brick building

45 Years

AC Mains Supply

20 Years

DC Batteries

10 Years

DC Rectifiers

10 Years

DC-DC Converters

10 Years

Waveguide Dehydrators

10 Years

2.3.1 Site Access Tracks Transend’s communications access roads are maintained regularly and road upgrades are undertaken to ensure an adequate road quality to allow the maintenance of the communications network. Figure 10 provides a view of the age profiles of the telecommunications access tracks. The tracks at and were last upgraded in 1995 and represent the oldest tracks in the network (age since last upgrade). Figure 10 – Age Profile of Telecommunications Site Access Tracks Age of telecommunications site access tracks by road lengths 20000

18000

16000

Road Length (m)

14000

12000

10000

8000

6000

4000

2000

0

1

2

3

4

5

9

18

Road Ages (Years)

2.3.2 Site Security 2.3.2.1

Security Fences and Gates

The age profile for the security fences and gates is not available due to the lack of adequate information. Planning is currently underway to encompass all telecommunications assets within Transend’s asset management framework and this will involve the gathering of data including the age of the assets.

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2.3.2.2

Security Alarm Monitoring

The site programmable logic controller (PLC) is used to consolidate all site alarms and monitoring information. This includes the security monitoring. The PLC is managed as part of the bearer network in the Telecommunications Bearer Network Asset Management Plan5. Door sensors were installed with the Digital Microwave project in 1995. Buildings developed after 1995 had the sensors installed during the site developments. 2.3.2.3

Video Surveillance

The video surveillance was installed with the site development in 2008. This system is used as a trial for remote site monitoring for later applications.

2.3.3 Earthing and Lightning Protection The earthing and lightning protection systems have been installed with the major civil works undertaken at the sites. The infrastructure upgrades in 1995 as part of the Digital Microwave Project resulted in the earthing system and lightning protection upgrades at the major sites around the state. Newer sites have been provided with the earthing systems at the time of construction.

2.3.4 Antenna Support Structures The first antenna support structures were installed as part of the early analogue microwave system around 1975. Since the telecommunications information is currently not included in the AMIS databases, the age details across the entire asset base for antenna support structures are not available at this time.

2.3.5 Repeater Site Buildings Some of Transend’s repeater site buildings date back to the late 1960s with the implementation of The major Digital Microwave Upgrade project in 1995 which was the associated with the state-wide de-manning of power stations and control centres, saw the installation of a large number of the huts with pre-fabricated concrete shelters with the older huts remaining on site and in some cases being used by other site users. The age profile of the current population of buildings used by Transend is provided below in Figure 11. Temperature sensors have been installed since 2003 in the equipment rooms and in some situations within the closed equipment cabinets.

5

Trim D12/8715 Telecommunications Bearer Network Asset Management Plan

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Figure 11 – Building Age Profile Number of each building type by Age 25

Number of Buildings

20

15 Generic Concrete Duggans Concrete HEC Bondor Type

10

Ausco

5

0 0-4 Years

5-9 Years

10-14 Years

15-19 Years

30-34 Years

Age of Buildings

2.3.6 AC Mains Supply The building power supplies were installed as part of the initial site developments. Since the telecommunications information is currently not included in the AMIS databases, the age details across the entire asset base for the AC supply are not available at this time.

2.3.7 DC Supply Systems 2.3.7.1

Sealed Lead Acid Batteries

The telecommunications network equipment relies heavily on the DC supply systems as a critical system component. This system criticality drives the need for battery systems to be duplicated at sites. A strict replacement schedule is maintained for the replacement of telecommunications batteries, with all of the batteries being installed during the past 10 years. The battery degradation rarely results in batteries being suitable for operation beyond their 10 year life. The age profile of the battery systems is provided in Figure 12.

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Figure 12 – Battery System Age Profile Age profile of Battery Systems by Type 25

Number of Battery Systems

20

Sonnenschein Fullriver

15

Yuasa (UXH) Yuasa (NP-65) Enersys Yuasa (UXL) Battery Energy (Powerlyte) 10

Vision Exide Absolyte Yuasa (UXF)

Battery Energy (Energel)

5

0 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

Age of Batteries

2.3.7.2

48V DC Rectifiers

Transend utilises a variety of rectifier systems to power the telecommunications assets and to provide the required battery charging. These systems have all been installed since 1995. The age and have profile of the rectifier assets is provided in Figure 13. exceeded the 10 year life of the rectifier assets and are targeted for replacement. The series of rectifiers is the current model rectifier used in the network. Figure 13 – Age Profile of DC Rectifier and Converter Assets. 70

Age Profile of DC Rectifier and Converter Assets 60

Number of Units

50

40

30

20

10

0

2.3.7.3

DC-DC Converters

At some sites DC-DC converters are utilised by Transend to operate the 48V DC telecommunications equipment from the power station and substation 125V DC battery systems. Page 27 of 58

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These systems are all beyond the 10 year service life. Operational concerns with the DC-DC converter systems, (see section 3) will see the replacement of the DC-DC converters with a 48V battery and rectifier system. The age profile of the DC-DC converters is included in Figure 13

2.3.8 Waveguide Dehydrators All of the waveguide dehydrators present in the telecommunications network have been installed since the Digital Microwave Radio upgrade in 1995. The age profile of these assets is displayed in Figure 14. The systems are now obsolete and future maintenance work will require the replacement of the current units with the new units. Figure 14 – Age profile of Waveguide Dehydrators Age profile of Waveguide dehydrators 30

25

Number of dehydrators

20

15

10

5

0

1

2

3

5

6 7 Dehydrator Age

8

9

11

18

2.4 Economic life The economic life of the site infrastructure assets are provided in Table 2. Table 2 – List of asset category economic lives Asset Description

Asset Design Life

Site Access tracks

10 Years

Fences and gates

10 Years

Surveillance Systems

10 Years

Earthing / Lightning systems

45 Years

Steel Lattice Towers

45 Years

Monopoles

45 Years

Concrete Stobie Poles

45 Years Page 28 of 58

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Prefabricated Concrete Hut

45 Years

Transportable Polystyrene Sandwich Hut

10 Years

Transportable steel clad hut

10 Years

Brick building

45 Years

AC Mains Supply

10 Years

DC Batteries

10 Years

DC Rectifiers

10 Years

DC-DC Converters

10 Years

Waveguide Dehydrators

10 Years

Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) undertook a report detailing the ‘Assessment of Proposed Regulatory Asset Lives’ for Transend in September 2013. This was undertaken prior to Transend purchasing the telecommunications business and therefore did not include the asset lives for telecommunications assets. Transend has engaged SKM to undertake a similar assessment of asset lives in 2013 which will include the telecommunications assets.

2.5 Site infrastructure functionality The site infrastructure provides critical enabling functions for the operation of the telecommunications network (incorporating the Bearer Network, Ethernet Systems, and Telephone Systems). The various assets in this category provide one of the following functions: 

Housing for the telecommunications network equipment;



Antenna support and mounting;



Feeder pressurisation;



Earthing and lightning protection;



Passive and active security (including video surveillance);



Environmental controls; and



Equipment Power.

2.6 Makes and Models Some of the sub-categories in the telecommunications site infrastructure incorporate a number of different makes and models. These different systems are a result of changes to designs and products over time. In particular, the different makes and models are found in the following categories within the site infrastructure class. 

Antenna Support Structures;



Repeater Site Buildings;



DC Supply systems; and



Waveguide Dehydrators

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The longer lives of the antenna support structures and repeater site buildings (as opposed to the electronic components of the telecommunications system) will result in some design variations over time as needs change and the product availability changes. One off installations of products create a maintenance issue with a lack of familiarity increasing the effort to maintain these assets. The present paradigm of equipment scaling to fit the required purposes eases the pressure on maintenance staff to familiarise with multiple makes of similar equipment. Transend’s definition of a make is a device which differs in build by manufacturer, firmware or technology. Transend is seeking to standardise the equipment utilised in the network on generational basis rather than maintaining a diverse range of products. With the rapid technological evolution however, the network will evolve such that some of the equipment (such as power supplies) will remain somewhat diverse. Restricting this diversity to the product generation will minimise the effect of such diversity on maintenance costs. Transend has standardised on the following products to simplify the issues associated with interoperability as well as easing maintenance pressures: Table 3 – Standard communications site infrastructure models Asset Category

Products

Repeater Site Buildings

Concrete Prefabricated

DC Rectifier Systems Waveguide Dehydrators Perimeter Fences

According to Transend’s standard6

2.6.1 Antenna Support Structures There are a number of different antenna support structure utilised in the network. These are shown in Figure 15.

6

TRIM D04/36430 – Security Fences and Gates Standard

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Figure 15 – Antenna support structure locations by structure type Antenna support structure types by location

25

20

15

10

5

0

Antenna Support Structure Type

2.6.1.1

Steel Lattice Tower

There are various designs of the steel lattice telecommunications towers which are deployed in the telecommunications network. These towers allow the greatest capacity due to their strength and rigidity and allow for greater mounting height of the communications antennas. Also included in this sub-category are the light weight transmission line towers and suburban communications towers which are of a less rigid design and do not provide the same functionality as the telecommunications towers. The towers included in this sub-category are:       

ABB; EPT; Flight Bros Triangular; Future Engineering – F250; HEC; Transfield Tower; and HEC TL Tower.

The Transfield tower and HEC TL Tower have a less rigid design. 2.6.1.2

Monopole Towers

The monopole towers are a lower cost option providing a mounting generally for up to two antennas. These poles are usually used as the antenna mounting option at substations and other end point sites. These include the Stobie poles.

2.6.2 Repeaters Site Buildings The telecommunications network consists of a number of different makes of telecommunications building as provide in Figure 16.

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Figure 16 – Repeater Site Building types by location Repeater Site Building types by Location 25

20

15

10

5

0 Ausco

Bondor Type

Duggans Concrete

Generic Concrete

HEC

Repeater site building types

2.6.2.1

Concrete Equipment Shelters

The concrete equipment shelters are the preferred design of shelter for use in the telecommunications network. These shelters provide a higher level of security, greater environmental stability and a longer asset life. 2.6.2.2

Transportable Building Type

The transportable buildings include the original HEC style buildings installed at various sites over 30 years ago, and the bondor type buildings installed more recently at smaller repeater sites. These buildings are a more temporary construction ideal for transportable applications. The buildings in this sub-category are:  

Ausco/Bondor type Polystyrene Sandwich huts; and HEC Steel clad buildings.

2.6.3 DC Power Systems The battery installations which form a part of the DC power systems are not provided with spare batteries in the maintenance areas because of the extremely short shelf life of the products. In maintaining a no spares strategy for the battery systems, the sourcing of temporary batteries can be through;   

Diverting internal project orders; Expediting manufacturer replacements; or Sourcing smaller systems from alternative suppliers as a temporary arrangement.

Batteries are subsequently provided on the basis of performance and cost indicators at the time of purchase and the make and model of battery is of lower importance. All batteries in the telecommunications system are Sealed Lead Acid. The other component of the power supply systems are the rectifiers at site with batteries and DCDC converter systems at sites powered from the station 125V DC power supply. These systems are both based on electronic equipment and are managed in a similar way to other electronic components in the network.

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Figure 17 represents the profile of the different power supply systems by their location and type. Figure 17 – DC Rectifier and Converter systems by Location Rectifier and Converter Systems by Location 60

50

40

30

20

10

2.6.3.1

DC Rectifier Systems

A number of different DC rectifier systems are typical of a generational change. The latest model of rectifier system is the and from Eaton. 2.6.3.2

DC Converter Systems

DC Converter systems are now quite restricted and only utilised it is deemed necessary through the system design.

2.6.4 Waveguide Dehydrators The waveguide dehydrators installed in the network are all manufactured by Andrew Corporation. The larger systems supporting multiple radio links are usually provided with the larger membrane style systems whilst the smaller sites with up to 2 radio links are provided with the smaller desiccant style systems. Static Desiccant is utilised for single waveguide runs. Figure 18 provides an illustration of the waveguide dehydrator types according to their location.

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Figure 18 – Waveguide Dehydrator Types by Location Waveguide Dehydrator Types by Location 30

25

20

15

10

5

0

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3

Condition monitoring practice

The condition of asset category assets relates to their reliability and availability to provide the required functions. The most common condition issue for the various categories is presented below in Table 4. Table 4 – Condition focus of Telecommunications Infrastructure Assets Asset Category

Primary Condition Issue

Site Access Tracks

Road surface deterioration

Site Security

Corrosion of fence components and tower barrier Obsolescence of video surveillance

Earthing and Lightning Protection

Industry best practice System Corrosion

Antenna Support Structures

Bolt and tower member corrosion

Buildings and Equipment Rooms

Size and Environmental Stability

DC Supply Systems

Declining Battery Performance Obsolete Rectifier Systems

Waveguide Dehydrators

Obsolescence

The deterioration of access roads, and physical corrosion of fences, towers and earthing systems are due to environmental conditions and vary between sites. The telecommunications infrastructure tends to be installed in harsh environments on mountains which tends to exacerbate such physical deterioration. The deterioration of DC battery systems is expected to occur over a 10 year period with all battery systems being replaced prior to the age of 10 years due to their criticality and following past experiences with batteries not performing beyond the 10 year life. Obsolescence of telecommunications systems arises due to the high rate of technological advancement. In addition to obsolescence, actual equipment failures tend to increase as circuitry dries out, and as circuit board components fatigue. Such issues are not possible to proactively detect or accurately predict due to their random occurrence, however the frequency of occurrence increases age. Transend’s telecommunications network operational systems operated by TNOCS, provides realtime monitoring of the telecommunications network operation. Beyond this, Transend’s policy for condition monitoring of telecommunications assets is to perform routine testing to detect any issues which have occurred. With the stability of modern digital electronics, the need to perform preventative maintenance is diminished. This can be seen through the increased network size (both in capacity and number of sites) being maintained by less staff since the installation of the digital communications network in 1995. Techniques for the monitoring and maintenance of the electronic equipment are reactive requiring maintenance response following the occurrence of a system fault. The nature of electronic equipment is that they tend not to provide any early signs of failure. Routine on-site maintenance is undertaken every 6 months at the telecommunications sites primarily to:  

Identify battery performance degradation; Monitoring corrosion and physical asset deterioration; and Page 35 of 58

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To ensure the physical status of equipment, and the equipment outputs are performing as expected.

The work for onsite equipment maintenance inspections is focussed on the physical aspects of the devices (Fan filters etc). Taking measurements of the system performance from the system software is conducted every two years unless a particular requirement arises. Equipment failures are usually detected through TNOCS operational systems prior to notification by customers of any circuit outages.

3.1

Defect management practices

Asset defects are recorded against the specific product in the Communications Work Order Database. The record captures the date of the defect allowing the reporting of the age of the device when the fault occurred, and the nature of the fault to identify any possible trends in the performance of the assets. The fault reporting in the database is used for the recording of equipment faults, and design errors. Equipment faults are a failure as a result of the manufacture or breakdown of the device. Only equipment faults are considered when evaluating the condition and the asset risk reports as they provide information on the condition of the asset rather than on its implementation. The communications system asset risk methodology is discussed in more detail later in this document.

3.2 Asset Condition Summary The operation of the telecommunications network equipment (including the site infrastructure) is continually monitored via the management systems operated by TNOCS. In addition, the site routine maintenance looks at the operation of the equipment every two years (6 monthly for physical attributes and interim battery measurement) to ensure the environmental conditions remain suitable, and that no obvious outward signs of equipment degradation are evident. Asset conditions are tabulated in Appendix A –Asset Condition Summary of this plan. The life of the electronic assets (at 10 years) results in a health index figure which will degrade significantly in the 5 year period. Similarly, the health of batteries and access roads also have a short asset life and will degrade significantly over 5 years. With these assets, consideration for asset renewal expenditure will need to account for the future rapid degradation of health of the individual assets. The following sub-sections details the high risk elements of the condition summaries.

3.2.1 DC Supply Systems The following battery systems presently have a diminished capacity and are pending replacement: Table 5 – Battery systems pending replacement Site

Site

The rapid degradation of battery systems means that a number of systems will require replacement within the next 5 years. Based on the current battery ages, the condition of the following battery Page 36 of 58

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systems is expected to diminish such that the batteries will require replacement within the next 5 years: Table 6 – Battery systems expected to require replacement within 5 years Site

Site

3.2.2 Tower Surface Rusting The telecommunications sites are usually located on mountain tops which are exposed to some of Tasmania’s harshest weather conditions. The towers at have some surface rusting which will result in diminished tower performance and life and can affect site earthing and lightning protection as the rust affects joints and bolts on the tower.

3.2.3 Concrete Hut Panel Joint Seals The Duggans concrete repeater huts installed in 1994 and 1995 are showing some deterioration of the seals between the concrete panels allowing moisture into the buildings. Some remedial and upgrade works to secure the weatherproofing integrity of the huts is required.

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3.2.4

Communications Room

The Communications room has been developed around existing control equipment. In its current configuration, the communications room: 

Does not have any anti-static flooring to cater for modern sensitive electronics;



Has uneven and unplanned cable trays with the potential to place excessive spot pressures on communications cables;



Lacks adequate separation from substation cabling routed between cabinets on the first floor;



Has cramped working conditions; and



Has open framed racks.

As an important site housing the backup control centre, the communications room at should be upgraded to maximise the performance of the equipment within the room.

3.2.5 Site Access Roads Maintenance for access roads includes:   

regular clearing of vegetation both growing through the road surface and overhanging the roadway; repair of potholes and ruts in the road surface; and the repair of boom gates and the associated locking system.

The vegetation clearing is undertaken as required, which is usually every 2-3 years. The more major works with regard to boom gates and road re-surfacing tends to be required on average every 8 years.

3.2.6 Waveguide Dehydrators A large number of the waveguide dehydrators deployed on the telecommunications network are the membrane type dehydrator which has been discontinued by the manufacturer. The replacement of such units will be considered as the units fail or require a system rebuild.

3.3

Special operational and design issues

3.3.1

Operational issues

The operational issues in the telecommunications network are issues which can potentially impact the secure operation of the bearer network. Operational issues are usually specific to the environment within which the system operates or are attributed to a specific installation. 3.3.1.1

Equipment hut water leakage

The equipment huts located at the telecommunications repeater sites house the sensitive equipment for the provision of telecommunications services. Following 18 years of operation, the equipment huts are now leaking water. Left unattended, this risk allows water to drip onto the sensitive electronic components of the telecommunications network affecting the availability of the telecommunications services to the prescribed transmission system, and to non-prescribed customers. This issue is currently being addressed with a replacement of the joint seals between the concrete slabs and the application of a sealing bandage over all joints.

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3.3.1.2

Building environmental control

With the telecommunications huts located in exposed locations, the building environment does vary depending on the external temperature – particularly taking account of the temperature extremes the telecommunications sites are exposed to. Modern telecommunications equipment expels a larger amount of heat into the building with higher temperatures affecting battery life and reaching beyond the safe operating limits of the equipment itself. The current plans to provide air conditioning in the buildings will allow a more suitable environment to be maintained for the equipment in the buildings. 3.3.1.3

Tower Corrosion

The telecommunications towers are a galvanised steel construction. The towers located at are all over 30 years of age and areas of surface rusting is now appearing on some members. Work is to be done to rectify the rusting issues and to restore the galvanic protection to the steel members. 3.3.1.4

Building and Gate Locking Mechanisms

The main locks on the telecommunications sites were designed 18 years ago. Since that time the following issues are now apparent:   

The protected key system has now expired and been superseded removing the key protection and preventing the expansion of the system to additional sites; The access to a number of sites has been altered over this time generating a mismatch in the locking mechanisms to access some sites. This results in the need for multiple keys to access the sites; and The locking mechanism on the padlocks and building door locks are beginning to corrode and seize up.

Work is currently being undertaken to update the key system and to replace the building and padlock mechanisms. 3.3.1.5

Old Buildings – Timber Framed Construction

The buildings located at and are an old style hut with timber framed construction and a timber floor. These building do not adequately account for the bushfire threat to the site. These buildings are responsible for the carriage of critical telecommunications services. The proposal for the next revenue period includes an allocation for the replacement of the building at and a project is presently underway to replace the building at 3.3.1.6

Site Fences

A number of the security fences are not built to the present Transend standard and in some circumstances corrosion of the post supports is threatening to compromise the integrity of the security fence. Some of these fences are now failing. A project has been proposed for the 2014-19 revenue period to address these issues. 3.3.1.7

Systems

The replacement of the charger systems has been underway for a number of years to migrate the system to a modern power supply system offering remote monitoring and control and providing a suitable standard for the charging of modern Valve regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) batteries. A small number of these systems are still remaining and will be replaced in conjunction with the upcoming battery replacements.

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3.3.2

Design issues

Design issues are defined as issues with a product where the product does not operate as per the product design. This includes batch production issues. 3.3.2.1

Tower

The tower was installed in 1997 following a second hand purchase. Subsequent modelling of the tower following its installation has revealed that the tower is inadequate for the exposed location with the antennas now being used in the region for communications. Some strengthening work has been undertaken however the tower capacity remains low. 3.3.2.2

Tower

The tower is a Transmission type tower which has been used as a mounting structure for Yagi and Dipole antennas. The modern communication requirements for the site include the presence of larger dish antennas for which the present structure is not adequate. Since the site is used by other entities also, Transend has approached the entities to provide a collaborative approach to providing a suitable upgrade tower for the site. 3.3.2.3

Site Earthing Systems

The present Earthing systems at telecommunications sites are critical for the equipotential bonding and the lightning protection of the site. The Earthing system were installed during the site establishment and a review of the Earthing systems is required to determine the adequacy moving forward and to highlight any corrosion and/or design inadequacy in the current Earthing system. 3.3.2.4

Concrete Building – Dust Ingress

The pre-cast concrete slabs in the Duggans buildings (built in 1995) have different expansion and movement characteristics due to temperature and environmental changes. The design of the buildings means that dust has been able to penetrate the building through the joins between the wall and floor slabs. The present buildings will be resealed to alleviate the issue of dust ingress and new buildings will be designed to prevent this type of dust ingress. 3.3.2.5

Concrete Building – Waterproof Roof Slab Membrane

The Duggans concrete buildings (built in 1995) have a bare concrete roof slab. It has been found that snow on the building roof will allow moisture to seep into the slab and can remain in the slab for some time reducing the life of the slab. A waterproofing membrane is to be applied to the roof slab of the concrete buildings to maximise their service life. 3.3.2.6

Provision of generator access to site

With the provision of trailer mounted generators to be deployed for emergency power supply arrangements, some of the sites do not have a suitable area within the site boundary to house the generator. The options will be considered to address this issue. 3.3.2.7

Sites with single power supply systems

The telecommunications sites are now provided with dual power supplies to ease maintenance issues and to provide greater power supply system security. A number of sites are still provided with the older single power supply systems. This will be rectified as part of the power supply upgrades.

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4

Asset Performance

Performance levels of Transend’s Telecommunications Site Infrastructure asset population is assessed using internal performance monitoring measures. The performance of the infrastructure assets is significantly different to the remainder of the telecommunications assets. Unlike with the electronic equipment comprising the other telecommunications asset categories, condition monitoring of the infrastructure assets provides valuable information indicating lower performance levels and pending asset failures. The failure of the infrastructure assets tends to have a greater consequence of loss and often results in a longer time for repair.

4.1 Key performance indicators The asset sub-categories are described below with details of the performance measures and the resulting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Asset faults and non-conformances are managed through communications services and are recorded in the work order database as a fault. Asset condition issues are subsequently rectified, whilst system issues are subject to an investigation to establish the root cause and recommend remedial strategies to reduce the likelihood of similar system failures occurring in the future. The record of equipment failures is maintained in the work order database enabling internal performance monitoring and trending of all infrastructure related faults and defects. This allows design faults and poor component performance levels to be identified and adequately addressed.

4.1.1 Site Tenure With the remote telecommunications repeater sites being located on hilltops and generally within bushland, a key performance measure for the sites is the level of vegetation clearance around the sites minimising the risk of bushfire damage. The Key performance indicators for site tenure are provided in Table 7. Table 7 – Key Performance Indicator for Site Tenure Performance Measure

Target

Radius of vegetation clearance

20m

Height of cleared vegetation

100mm height for a 3m radius 1m height for further 17m radius

4.1.2 Site Access Tracks The accessibility of the sites is crucial for the maintenance of the telecommunications network. The access tracks need to provide unimpeded access for authorised vehicles and should be maintained to Forestry Class 4 standard. Table 8 provides the key performance measures for access roads.

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Table 8 – Key Performance Indicator for Access Roads Performance Measure

Target

Culverts and drains

Clear of obstructions

Road Surface

Smooth and free of erosion

Vegetation (sides)

Clear of roadway

Vegetation (overhang)

No vegetation overhang below 5m

4.1.3 Site Security Performance for site security is measured against the sites conformance to a security design specification.

4.1.4 Earthing and Lightning Protection The earth mat and lightning protection system is to provide performance based on the key performance indicators in Table 9. Table 9 – Key Performance Indicator for Earthing and Lightning Protection Performance Measure

Target

Earth mat impedance

80%

>99.995%

4.1.9 Waveguide Dehydrators The performance of the Waveguide dehydrators is monitored remotely and is expected to meet a performance of 99.90%.

4.2 Benchmarking Benchmarking is not undertaken on the infrastructure assets alone, however the bearer network equipment as a whole is considered in the ITOMS benchmarking undertaken every 2 years.

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5

Risk

The risk assessment of the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure has been approached from a company-wide perspective (business risks) and will also be examined at the level of asset risk.

5.1 Business risks The following key business risks have been identified: 

Non-compliance – Transend has identified all NER non-compliant communications issues and the relevant mitigation strategies as per the NER compliance assessment;



Asset management – Transend has identified that foreseeable asset performance issues that impact on the operation of the telecommunications system (leading to operational issues on the power system), property damage and/or loss of life is a major risk to the business;



Personnel constraints – Transend acknowledges the resourcing constraints, both internal and external, to the power and telecommunications industry and has developed and carried out a resourcing strategy to address some of the issues associated with technical resources and appropriate competencies.

5.2 Asset risk Transend has adopted the risk management principles detailed in Australian Standard AS/NZ 4360:2004 ‘Risk Management’ in managing risk associated with infrastructure.The goals of the risk management strategy are to: a. Ensure the safety of personnel and the public as far as possible; b. Reduce the likelihood of failure; and c. Minimise the impact of failure on transmission system performance.

5.2.1 Likelihood of failure The predominant causes of telecommunications infrastructure failures include:   

Undetected corrosion of metallic infrastructure such as fences, cladding and towers; The undetected failure of concrete structural components such as buildings and tower footings; and The failure of site security.

Transend considers these all to be rare events, based upon the low number of incidents to date.

5.2.2 Consequence of Failure There are two major consequences that may eventuate due to a failure of telecommunications site infrastructure:  

Loss of power due to consequential damage to telecommunications equipment; and Harm to personnel or the public due to a failure of adequate site security.

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5.2.3 Risk analysis and mitigating strategies The main risks associated with telecommunications infrastructure assets are those risks that have potential to result in Transend’s telecommunications assets operational integrity being compromised, its performance to deteriorate, or poses an undue risk to equipment or human life, be that risk environmental, operational or security oriented. 5.2.3.1

Condition monitoring program

As part of the 2 yearly inspections of the telecommunications sites, condition monitoring of the infrastructure assets is undertaken. This involves a visual inspection in most cases to ensure the integrity of the units is maintained. The exception is for the batteries which are inspected every 6 months and discharged tested every 2 years. 5.2.3.2

Quality Control Measures

In order to mitigate the risk of inadequate quality control during design and installation, Transend will be developing a suite of technical standards and specifications for the design and installation of telecommunications site infrastructure. 5.2.3.3

Monitoring and Review

In developing the technical standards and specifications for the telecommunications site infrastructure, Transend will be implementing an ongoing monitoring program for sites to ensure they remain effective and relevant to achieving Transend’s risk management and operational objectives.

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6

Demand Analysis

6.1 Planned augmentation Transend’s requirements for developing the telecommunications system are principally driven by seven elements: a

Telecommunications demand;

b

Augmentations to the Electricity Transmission System;

c

New customer connections;

d

Administrative site relocations;

e

System security criteria; and

f

NER compliance.

Details of planned network augmentation works can be found in Transend’s ‘Annual Planning Report’7, which is updated on an annual basis.

6.2 Asset specific implications Proposed network augmentation projects identified in the Annual Planning Report will include the installation of appropriate telecommunications assets. This will increase the number of telecommunications assets within the network, resulting in higher operational and maintenance costs.

7

D13/17785 – Transend’s Annual Planning Report 2013

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7

Lifecycle Management Plan

7.1 Issues summary The underlying philosophy of the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure is to provide: a

Robust environmentally controlled sites suitable for housing sensitive electronic equipment;

b

A suitable rigid antenna support structure for the mounting of microwave radio antennas; and

c

Secure, backed up power supplies to maintain telecommunications operation during periods of AC Mains failures.

In pursuing this philosophy, the following issues need to be addressed in relation to the lifecycle management of the assets which make up the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure: a

The need to use high performance assets in the network to underpin the overall performance of the network;

b

The need to ensure the site environment remains suitable for the modern telecommunications equipment;

c

The need to remove ‘one-off’ installations that are difficult to maintain due to the lack of appropriate expertise and spares;

d

The need to upgrade the network to provide the appropriate technology to support the telecommunications services required by TESI; and

e

The need to actively monitor the infrastructure to deter recreational intrusion harming overall system performance.

7.2 Maintenance plan Monitoring of the physical infrastructure on the sites is generally undertaken through physical inspections, however building access and power supply operation is monitored by the Telecommunications Network Operations and Control System (TNOCS). Access roads and physical assets are monitored during with the 6 monthly preventative maintenance works at each site.

7.2.1

Preventive maintenance

Preventative maintenance on the telecommunications network is undertaken on a site basis to enhance efficiencies. The routine testing for each site is based on: 1. 6 monthly routine testing – Covering the site infrastructure, checking the filters on individual equipment, and checking on the individual static desiccant (where installed on the waveguide); and 2. 2 yearly routine testing – Covers the 6 monthly routines, reviews radio paths for obstructions (growing trees encroaching the radio path) and critical performance measures for all systems. The 6 monthly routine testing for the site infrastructure is highly focussed towards monitoring battery performance by:  

Monitoring the cell voltages of the battery banks under load every 6 months and comparing these to the previous battery measurements; and Monitoring the battery bank impedance every 6 months and comparing this to the previous impedance measurements. Page 47 of 58

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In performing the 2 yearly routines, a full 3 hour discharge test of the battery banks is undertaken to confirm the ongoing operation of the battery banks. In addition, the 2 yearly routine testing includes the following:         

Physical inspection of equipment rooms (cable trays, entries and ducts); Brief inspection of ACMA compliance; Safety inspection of sites; Inspection to ensure adequate operation of site locking mechanisms; Inspection of visible earthing connections; Inspection of fences; Inspection of the fan and heater operation; Inspection of internal lighting; and An inspection of the operation of the telecommunications equipment.

Preventative maintenance extends to the some remedial works, particularly with respect to maintaining the integrity of the access roads although this is generally considered as an operational project undertaken separately to the other preventative maintenance activities.

7.2.2 Corrective Maintenance Corrective maintenance of Site Infrastructure assets is usually initiated following the onsite inspections and routine maintenance where an issue has been highlighted, although remote battery monitoring may identify battery performance issues between the 6 monthly tests. Corrective maintenance is undertaken on other infrastructure assets following the identification of issues through the routine inspections.

7.2.3 Technical support Other operational costs which are not able to be classified under the above categories are allocated to technical support. These tasks include: a

System fault analysis and investigation;

b

Network strategy and future coordination;

c

Preparation of asset management plans;

d

Standards management;

e

Management of external service providers;

f

Resources management, particularly professional and technical skills availability;

g

Training;

h

Group management; and

i

General technical advice.

7.3 Capital plan Transend's telecommunications bearer network capital investment strategy has been developed taking into consideration the design related issues, service requirements, condition, performance issues and risks associated with the population of assets. The manufacturers support capability has been considered for the waveguide dehydrators and the DC rectifier systems.

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7.3.1 Network Strategy The current telecommunications network consists of a dominant microwave backbone with some optical fibre links where available. With the current program of OPGW installations, the bearer network can be more efficiently served through the provision of an optical backbone with microwave radio diversity provided to complete the network core. The network core can be extended down the West coast to The asset replacement strategy into the future will support this strategic direction by focussing the capital program to the affected bearers and sites and removing surplus equipment from the network for possible redistribution of disposal. The effect of this strategic direction may result in reduced infrastructure requirements at some microwave sites (tower loadings and heights etc). With some sections of the network providing non-prescribed services only, these network upgrades will be justified on the basis of commercial negotiations.

7.3.2

Asset Documentation

Following on from the integration of the telecommunications business into Transend, the asset register and fault details will be migrated from the current isolated databases to Transend’s asset system.

7.3.3

Asset Replacement Strategy

Transend’s telecommunications site infrastructure is provided to support the telecommunications systems to provide the operational services to the Tasmanian Electricity Supply Industry. The site infrastructure needs to:     

Provide a secure environment in which the telecommunications equipment can operate; Provide infrastructure which allows efficient development of telecommunications services; Utilise robust infrastructure installations to support high service performance; Provide robust DC power systems with backup supply suitable for the prolonged loss of AC mains; and Provide the capacity required by all current and potential network customers.

The site infrastructure has asset lives varying between 10 years for waveguide dehydrators, DC power supplies, access roads and fences to 45 years for buildings, towers and earthing systems. The 10 year life for the equipment is based on;    

Advances in technology resulting in equipment and service obsolescence; Equipment manufacturers superseding the products and reducing their support (power supplies and waveguide dehydrators); Technology changes and improvements in monitoring capabilities; and Infrastructure failures (such as battery failures) increasing in frequency compromising the reliability of the network.

The replacement of telecommunications site infrastructure assets needs to pre-empt the above end of life scenarios in order to adequately support the critical functions of the telecommunications network and the electricity transmission system. The site infrastructure comprises a collection of individual assets at the sites. Unlike the other asset categories in the telecommunications portfolio, the site infrastructure assets do not interface as a system and thus assets can be individually considered in the asset replacement programme. The future strategy on an asset basis is considered below.

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7.3.3.1

Site Tenure

Transend’s interest in telecommunications sites servicing the prescribed transmission network is long-term and the strategy for these sites is to maintain a long-term tenure. Transend’s preference is to own the freehold title to the site however in some instances a long term site lease is undertaken. 7.3.3.2

Site Access Tracks

Transend maintains the access tracks to the telecommunications sites to Forestry Class 4 standard. Investment in road maintenance is undertaken as operational expenditure. Road improvements such as the addition of drainage and culverts means that the upgrades are funded through the capital budget. Transend’s strategy for the access roads extends to ensuring that the roads are accessible for operational purposes. Transend works to recover some of the costs of road maintenance from other users. 7.3.3.3

Site Security

The strategy for the security fences around the Telecommunications sites is to bring the site fences in line with the Transend Security Fences and Gates standard. The upgrade of the fence to the standard will be undertaken as the condition of the fences dictates the need for fence repairs. Transend’s strategy for the access control at the communications sites is to maintain a protected key system providing a hierarchy of access. The current key system is no longer protected and a number of locks have corroded and begun to seize. The current project will provide an upgraded protected key system. In line with Transend’s security standard and considering Tasmania Police’s security assessment8, video security is to be implemented at the repeater sites. The first 5 sites will be rolled out in 2016/17 with a further expansion of the surveillance considered for the 2019-2024 revenue period. 7.3.3.4

Earthing and Lightning Protection

The earthing at the telecommunications sites date back as far as 1975. Due to the critical nature of the earthing systems, an investigation of the requirements for earthing on the telecommunications sites will be undertaken followed by an audit of the earthing systems to identify the current noncompliances in order to schedule rectification works. 7.3.3.5

Antenna Support Structures

The antenna support structures will continue to be monitored for corrosion and addressed accordingly. The present corrosion issues at and will be rectified during 2015/16. In order to ensure that the antenna support structures maintain their integrity, structural engineering assessments are undertaken on a tower whenever the antenna configuration is altered. New antenna structures are determined on their requirements. A monopole is suitable for sites with a small load. Sites with a larger load will require a larger tower structure. 7.3.3.6

Communications Buildings

Transend will be developing standards for the communications buildings at repeater sites. The telecommunications repeater sites are located on hilltops surrounded by vegetation and trees. With 8

TRIM D11/110681 – Telecommunications Site Security Assessment - SSU

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the risk of bushfire, the design of the buildings must be suitable to reduce the risk of bushfire to the buildings. Transend’s strategy is to utilise concrete buildings to provide a more stable environment and to minimise the buildings susceptibility to bushfire. 7.3.3.7

AC Mains Supply

In providing the highest performance for the telecommunications network, the AC mains supply is backed up with a minimum of 24 hours (48hrs at more remote sites). In order to protect the site from lightning and power surges, Transend’s strategy for the AC mains feed to the buildings is that surge suppression is applied on all AC mains feeds. 7.3.3.8

DC Supply Systems

Transend’s DC supply systems are regularly inspected and monitored to ensure that service performance is maximised. The following strategies are applied to DC supply systems:    

DC Batteries provide a backup supply to the operational telecommunications equipment for a minimum of 24 hours (48 hours for remote sites); Batteries will be charged to 75% in 8 hours and 100% in 24 hours; Batteries are replaced after 10 years or earlier if the performance is reduced according to AS 2676.2; and DC rectifiers will provide remote monitoring capability for both the power supply and battery banks.

7.3.3.9

Waveguide Dehydrators

The waveguide dehydrators provide an important function to the telecommunications network, however a failure of a dehydrator does not warrant an immediate response and rectification. For this reason, spare waveguide dehydrators are held by Transend, however the strategy for replacement of the dehydrators is to run the dehydrators to failure with the replacement being sourced from the spare stock.

7.3.4 Asset Investment Program To address the design, condition and performance risks associated with the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Assets, the equipment highlighted in this asset management plan will be scheduled for capital replacements. The investment in this asset management plan will be considered alongside other telecommunications network asset management plans to identify efficiencies through asset investment within the entire telecommunications capital program.

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Table 14 summarises the investment program for telecommunications site infrastructure assets over the next 10 year period.

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Table 14 – Asset category replacement and installation program Asset Sub-category

Project

System / Year 13-14

Access Roads Site Civil Works

Access Road Upgrades (Historical work requirements)

1

Hut Replacement

Site Civil Works

19-23

1

Communications Room

Site Civil Works

14-19

1

Hut Replacement

1

Site Civil Works

Hut Weatherproofing Works

Site Civil Works

Tower Rectification Works

2

Site Civil Works

Air Condition System Installations

25

2

Site Civil Works

Site Fence Upgrades

24

1

Security

Video Surveillance Installations

5

10

DC Systems

DC Power Supply System replacements

51

30

16

30

4

7.3.5 Works in Progress The current works in progress are   

DC Power Supply Upgrades Access road maintenance and upgrades hut replacement

7.3.6 Regulatory Considerations The telecommunications site infrastructure provides services internally for prescribed business uses, and also provides non-prescribed services to external customers in the power and emergency services industry. The consideration for the prescribed/non-prescribed usage is reflected in the regulated asset base according to the methodology for allocation of communications assets.9

7.4 Disposal plan Replaced equipment is de-commissioned and removed from the sites as part of the capital replacement projects. Infrastructure assets which are no longer required are offered for sale where some use may be available otherwise the equipment is provided for salvage or recycling.

9

TRIM D12/20363 – Communications Asset Prescribed / Non-Prescribed Consideration

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8

Financial Summary

8.1 Operational expenditure The expenditure required to implement the telecommunications site infrastructure maintenance plan is provided in the operational budgets of both the communications services group and TNOCS according to the expected work in each of the areas. TNOCS contribution to maintenance is predominantly associated with corrective maintenance. The allocation numbers in Table 15 reference the locations of the operational budget figures for bearer services. Each of the activities are apportioned between the prescribed and non-prescribed business at a ratio of 39% prescribed and 61% non-prescribed. Since these allocations are provided for the bearer network as a whole, a maintenance breakdown has been developed to apportion the maintenance costs to the various telecommunications asset categories. The cost breakdown is included in Table 16 Table 15 – Bearer Network – References to operational budget figures Comms Services – Bearer Shared

Activity

TNOCS – Bearer Shared

RCAC 2400 5040

RCAC 3430 5040

Corrective Maintenance

4911/002

4919/002

Preventative Maintenance

4911/003

Table 16 – Bearer Network – Maintenance Breakdown Asset Category

Preventative Maintenance Portion (%)

Corrective Maintenance Portion (%)

Microwave Radio

30

50

Multiplexer System

15

30

Power Supplies

50

10

PLC Systems

3

5

Optical Terminals

2

5

8.2 Capital expenditure The replacement plan for telecommunications assets focusses on maintaining a supportable, high performance telecommunications network. In providing high performance, investment in the telecommunications site infrastructure is to provide robust infrastructure upon which the network equipment can be built. This infrastructure can then become the basis upon which the Telecommunications Bearer Network can provide services compliant with the National Electricity Rules, which enhance efficiencies across the business, and which provides a financial return through the sale of non-regulated services on the telecommunications network to the extent permitted by the relevant legislation. The projected capital expenditure required to implement the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure program has been estimated to level 0 and is provided in the relevant sections of the forward capital budget as the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure program of work10.

10

TRIM D12/27591 – Telecommunications Site Infrastructure Investment Evaluation Summary

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8.3 Investment evaluation An Investment Evaluation Summary of the program has been prepared for the Telecommunications Site Infrastructure describing the condition, performance and risk issues identified within this asset management plan. Options and strategies and Net Present value (NPV) summaries for each identified option have been provided to support the need for capital expenditure. The Investment Evaluation Summary for this asset management plan’s proposed capital program is D12/27591.

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Appendix A –Asset Condition Summary Table 17 – Civil Asset Condition Summary Sites

Site

Tower

Building

Roads

Security

Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable

Marginal Marginal Poor Poor Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal

Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Marginal Marginal Acceptable Poor Marginal Marginal Marginal

Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable

Acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Marginal Marginal Marginal

Acceptable Acceptable

Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal

Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Acceptable

The above list of civil infrastructure assets will be expanded further once site inspections have been undertaken to assess the asset conditions.

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Table 18 – Waveguide Dehydrator and Power Supply Condition Summaries Waveguide Dehydrator Marginal Marginal Acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Marginal Marginal

Marginal Marginal

Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal nAcceptable Acceptable Marginal

Marginal

Marginal Marginal Acceptable

Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal

Rectifier

Batteries

Acceptable Acceptable Poor Marginal Poor Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable

Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal Poor Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Poor Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable

Sites

Waveguide Dehydrator Acceptable

Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable

Marginal

Marginal

Marginal

Marginal

Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable

Marginal Marginal

Marginal

Acceptable

Rectifier

Batteries

Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable

Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Poor Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Marginal Marginal Acceptable Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Poor Marginal Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable

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