Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Contents lists available at ScienceDirect

Results in Engineering
journal homepage: [Link]/journal/results-in-engineering

Measuring and simulation of magnetic field generated by high voltage

overhead transmission lines
Matiullah Ahsan a, * , Md Nor Ramdon Baharom b, ** , Zainab Zainal c , Ihsan Ullah Khalil d
a
Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia
b
Department of Electrical Engineering Technology, Faculty of Engineering Technology, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Pagoh campus, Johor, Malaysia
c
Diploma Study Center, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Pagoh Campus, Johor, Malaysia
d
NUST College of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: Overhead transmission lines produce significant Magnetic Fields (MF).MF impact is crucial for Overhead
Overhead transmission lines Transmission lines (OTL) design because of health concerns regarding radiation effects because they can induce
Magnetic fields electrical currents within the human body. This paper presents the MF measurement results underneath OTL in
Double-circuit
two different locations and periods in Malaysia. The first site consisted of two 132 kV double-circuit transmission
Quadruple-circuit
ICNIRP limit
lines, while the second site contained a 132 kV double-circuit line and a 132 kV quadruple-circuit system. The
measurements are conducted in December 2023 and February 2024. The measured MF levels are presented via
graphs to facilitate the localization of zones with high-intensity MF. The study found that areas beneath the
transmission lines with the highest levels of MF intensities were identified by analyzing the measured results. In
the first site, for both double and quadruple circuits, the maximum RMS magnetic flux density level is 2.81 μT,
and in the second site, for double circuits is 3.5 μT. For validation of the measurement results, MF is simulated
using ANSYS Electronics based on IEEE standards, CIGRE, and other researchers. The measurement outcomes
closely matched the simulated MF with very few errors for both double-circuit and quadruple-circuit measure-
ments, as well as for two double-circuit measurements. The simulated and measured MFs were compared with
the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) limit in occupational and general
exposure values. The study found that the measurement outcome closely matched the simulated MF under the
ICNIRP limit.

1. Introduction population increased by 43 % between 2000 and 2021. DOSM has

predicted that Malaysia’s population growth by 2040 will be 22 %,
The Southeast Asia regions include rapidly developing countries like which would be approximately 40.55 million people [4,5].
Malaysia. Rapid development has sped up the urbanisation of many The growth of Malaysia’s economy has increased due to the demand
rural areas to meet the needs of a growing population and achieve na- for electrical supply and load current in transmission lines. Single-circuit
tional goals as a developed nation. According to statistical information transmission lines have upgraded to double circuits, and double circuits
from the MEIH (Malaysian Energy Information Hub), shown in Fig. 1, have been upgraded. Sometimes, the high-voltage transmission line
there has been a 174 % increase in electricity consumption between passes through heavily populated areas. Therefore, there is growing
2000 and 2021 [1,2]. Malaysia expects to increase its final electricity public concern about public about a possible correlation between
consumption by up to 33.8 % by 2050, while final electricity con- exposure to electric and magnetic fields and human health, including the
sumption is projected to increase by 1.67 % annually. It is because the risk of certain types of cancer [6].
human population is growing annually, as seen in the same data from International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection
the DOSM (Department of Statistics Malaysia) [3]. Malaysia’s (ICNIRP) [7,8] has provided guidelines on limiting MF Magnetic field

* Corresponding author.
** Corresponding author.
E-mail addresses: matiullahahsan@[Link] (M. Ahsan), ramdon@[Link] (M.N.R. Baharom), zainab@[Link] (Z. Zainal), Ihsanullahkhalil@ceme.
[Link] (I.U. Khalil).

[Link]
Received 6 April 2024; Received in revised form 30 July 2024; Accepted 6 August 2024
Available online 8 August 2024
2590-1230/© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license ([Link]
nc-nd/4.0/).
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

R.J. Reiter’s paper [10,11] explores the connection between mela-

tonin suppression caused by static and Extremely Low Frequency (ELF)
Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) and the potential increase in cancer risk.
Melatonin, a hormone produced at night by the pineal gland (a pea-sized
organ near the brain’s center linked to our visual system), is influenced
by light detected by the retinas. This lipophilic hormone can penetrate
all body cells and effectively neutralize highly toxic hydroxyl (OH)
radicals, which are byproducts of oxygen metabolism in organisms.
The high reactivity of OH radicals can lead to deoxyribonucleic acid
(DNA) damage, potentially initiating cancer. The impact of ELF wave-
lengths on nighttime melatonin production was first noted in the early
1980s [12].

Table 1
EMDEX II Range specification [28].

Fig. 1. Estimated human population increase and final electricity consumption Specification Values
in Malaysia from 2000 to 2050 [1,2]. Low Frequency, Low Field 0.01–300 μT
Resolution 0.01–300 μT
radiation from (OTL) Overhead Transmission lines systems for public
exposure, and the guideline limit is set at up to 100 μT, while for
occupational exposure, the limit is higher at up to 500 μT. IEEE Table 2
644–2019 [9] has also contributed by establishing guidelines for the PMM Narda 1008 series Range specification [32].
measurement of MF radiation. The significance of monitoring MF radi- Specification Values
ation, particularly from OTL systems, has gradually increased over time
Low Frequency Suitable for 50/60 Hz power lines
[8]. A request was made to conduct an MF level measurement profile Current output Up to 170 A continuously
within a residential area, Kolej Kediaman Bestari UTHM (KKB), which is
near 132 kV and 275 kV OTL systems. Additionally, an MF measurement
was requested for a potential development site in Cyberjaya Malaysia,
though the report on this is confidential. While it remains unclear
whether the authorities currently require such MF measurements, they
may become necessary in the future, especially for data-sensitive
building sites, as well as public areas like hospitals and kindergartens.
As the demand for electricity continues to grow, improving existing OTL
systems as an alternative to new constructions should be thoroughly
evaluated, with MF radiation levels being an integral consideration in
this process.

2. Literature studies

2.1. Literature review

Researchers worldwide have conducted many investigations seeking

to elucidate the effects of MF radiation from OTL on cancer risk. Since
numerous internal and external factors impact cancer development, the
claim that exposure to MF radiation necessarily results in cancer remains
ambiguous. Accordingly, a discussion of these issues informed by
available evidence is critically important for enhancing understanding
Fig. 3. 132 kV double circuit and quadrupole double circuit transmission line.
in this area.

Fig. 2. (a) EMDEX II (b)Linda wheel (c) PNM Narda 1008 (d) Fluke 324.

2
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

nearest power line, establishing four distance ranges: 0–50 m, 50–200

m, 200–600 m, and beyond 600 m. The duration of exposure was also
considered, with data collected for residents living in these areas for at
least 5, 10, or 15 years. The findings revealed an increased risk of Alz-
heimer ’s-related mortality for individuals living within 50 m of 220 or
380 kV OTL systems, with the risk proportional to the duration of
exposure. However, no consistent association was found with Parkin-
son’s disease. The authors noted that the lack of information on the
OTLs’ electrical characteristics might have limited the study’s scope.
Within the 50m corridor, the study identified 20 Alzheimer ’s-related
deaths out of 9164 residents (0.22 %). In a worst-case scenario, this
could translate to approximately 160 Alzheimer’s cases per 9000 people
– a concerning statistic. Despite these findings, there remains no
conclusive evidence directly linking Alzheimer’s disease to MF radiation
from OTL. Nevertheless, the potential implications of this research un-
derscore the importance of efforts to reduce MF radiation from overhead
transmission lines.
Jimbin et al. [19] have provided MF measurements from OTL sys-
tems near residential areas, which recorded less than 2 μT far below the
100 μT limits. However, with the increasing trend of electricity con-
sumption in Malaysia, the MF radiation level might increase. In that
case, there is a need to find an alternative to reduce MF radiation from
existing OTL as an initiative to provide a healthier environment in the
Fig. 4. 132 kV double circuit transmission line. future [20].
According to Medved et al. [21], based on Biot-Savart’s Law, the
P. Semm’s [13] pioneering study revealed that changes in the strength of the magnetic field is inversely proportional to the distance
geomagnetic field environment altered the discharge rate of rat pina- from the magnetic field source.". As the point of MF measurement moves
cocytes, significantly lowering melatonin levels in both the pineal gland further away from the source, the MF strength decreases.
and blood. Ghani et al. [22] research findings state that the MF radiation level
Additional research on this topic is discussed in Refs. [14–17]. from OTL systems can be determined through measurements and com-
It is concluded that the relationship between increased cancer risks putations. While conducting measurement is essential to acquire the
and reduced melatonin levels in humans exposed to unusual, artificially exact MF level readings in an area, the computations approach offers
generated EMF remains unclear. Further comprehensive research is unlimited conditions as desired [22–25].
needed to verify this connection. Nevertheless, this information raises According to the Malaysian Standard MS 2332–1:2009 [26], the
important questions about reducing magnetic field (MF) levels from OTL maximum MF radiation permitted from OTL towers for public exposure
systems. is 100 μT. Both ST (Suruhanjaya Tenaga) and TNB (Tenga National
A. Huss et al. [18] investigated the correlation between exposure to Behrad) are responsible for ensuring compliance with this exposure
MF from high-voltage OTL and mortality from neurodegenerative dis- limit. For this research, the author endeavored to provide insight into
orders. The research focused on 220 kV and 380 kV OTL systems and the actual MF radiation levels from the OTL system by measuring
their potential impact on diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, selected residential areas. Simulations were also included to help
which are characterized by the deterioration of neurons in the brain. The improve the existing OTL system design in the future. However, before
study utilized data from the Swiss National Cohort, encompassing 4.7 analyzing MF radiation from the OTL system in depth, it is important
million individuals from 2000 to 2005. Notably, 9.2 % of the Swiss first to familiarize oneself with the OTL system itself.
population resided within 600 m of 220 kV or 380 kV OTL systems.
Researchers categorized exposure based on residents’ proximity to the

Fig. 5. Site of underneath TNB 132 kV double circuit and quadrupole circuit overhead transmission lines.

3
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 6. Site of underneath TNB two 132 kV double circuit overhead transmission lines.

3.1. Equipment used in measurement

The EMDEX II [28] is an exceptional tool for conducting risk as-

sessments and exposure measurements, specially catered for MF mea-
surements shown in Fig. 2a. It captures readings based on user-defined
parameters, and the data can be conveniently transferred to a com-
puter for detailed analysis. The EMDEX II’s adaptable and intuitive
approach to MF measurements makes it an ideal choice for conducting
both basic and advanced measurements [29–31]. EMDEX II Range
specification is shown in Table 1.
LINDA measurement wheel [31] is a highly specialized tool designed
for measuring magnetic fields at different distances using the EMDEX II
meter shown in Fig. 2b. LINDA wheel features a built-in compass that
helps you orient yourself, an aluminum holder for the EMDEX II meter,
and a strong magnet. These components are carefully mounted to the
measurement wheel, which is specifically designed to signal the EMDEX
Fig. 7. Testing EMDEX II meter at EMCentre UTHM laboratory.
II meter via an interface cable that plugs into the EMDEX II "Remote"
port at every one-foot interval. The wheel is easy to use and provides
2.2. Magnetic field level characteristics highly accurate readings, making it an essential tool for anyone who
needs to measure magnetic fields in their work or research.
The Overhead lines generate a magnetic field in its vicinity due to PNM Narda 1008 Series [32] is a device designed to help test power
load current flowing in the conductors. Magnetic field intensity is pro- frequency MF immunity based on the IEC/EN 61000-4-8 standard
portional to the current, so they vary with load conditions. As the cur- shown in Fig. 2c. The system comes with a square loop antenna (1m ×
rent increases, so does the magnetic field. The magnetic field strength 1m), which serves as an indication field. The generator automatically
decreases when the distance of power lines increases and is measured in sets the correct output current for testing MF meters. PMM Narda 1008
Tesla (T) or Gauss (G). Most overhead transmission lines are three- Series Range specification is shown in Table 2.
phase. Each phase has one or two or more conductors, and the Fluke 324 [33] can measure AC and DC voltage, AC, resistance, and
ground-level magnetic field is the sum of all the magnetic fields pro- continuity, as shown in Fig. 2d. It is a reliable tool for troubleshooting
duced by the currents in all the conductors. MF calculation is one of the electrical problems and is perfect for measuring current generation.
factors that should be considered during the design process, especially
for high-voltage transmission lines [27]. 3.2. 1st measurement configuration

3. Methodology Two transmission lines are built adjacent to each other; one is a 132
kV quadrupole double circuit, and the other is a 132 kV double circuit
This study is divided into two parts: field measurements and simu- transmission line shown in Fig. 3 located in Taman kepas johar.
lations. The field measurements were conducted using the EMDEX II
Metre and the LINDA Wheel, as shown in Fig. 2. The magnetic field 3.3. 2nd measurement configuration
measurements underneath outdoor high-voltage power lines in two
different locations and periods. The measurements were conducted Two adjacent transmission lines, each consisting of 132 kV double-
during December 2023 and February 2024. The simulations were done circuit systems, are located at Taman Universiti Parit Raja, as depicted
using ANSYS Maxwell. In order to validate the magnetic field mea- in Fig. 4. Measurements were taken at the crossing of transmission lines
surement, the measurement was simulated using the 2D Ansys Maxwell at maximum sag rather than along the length of the transmission lines.
model.

4
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 8. Test level 3 recorded values for the EMDEX II meter testing procedures. (a) PMM Narda generating 10 A/m to the loop antenna. (b)Fluke 324 m measuring
11.49 A in the cables for loop antenna. (c) EMDEX II meter measuring 12.44 μT of MF strength at the center of the loop antenna.

3.5. Laboratory test of equipment

Table 3
Testing procedures for the EMDEX II meter at EM Centre UTHM laboratory. The EMCentre UTHM laboratory conducted testing of the EMDEX II
Test Current values for Generated MF Measured MF Percentage using the loop antenna method, as recommended by IEEE Standard
level the strength in the strength error 644–2019 [9,34]. This method involves high amps wireless transfer to
1 m × 1 m square center of the
accurately measure power frequency electric and magnetic fields from
loop antenna square loop
antenna
AC power lines. The loop antenna method was the preferred approach
for testing the EMDEX II due to its superior sensitivity, frequency
A A/ μT μT %
response, and directionality in measuring the low-frequency magnetic
m
fields relevant to the device’s intended use, compared to other potential
1 1.15 1 1.256 1.22 2.87
methods like Hall effect sensors and fluxgate magnetometers. The
2 3.45 3 3.770 3.64 3.45
3 11.50 10 12.566 12.44 1.00 simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the loop antenna technique were also
factors that made it the primary choice for comprehensively evaluating
the EMDEX II’s magnetic field performance [35–39].
3.4. Location of measurements The test arrangement setup, shown in Fig. 7, was implemented to
achieve the desired parameters. The parameters detailed in Table 5 were
1st Magnetic field (MF) measurements are performed near the site aimed to be achieved as follows:
marked in blue, as shown in Fig. 5. The measurements were performed The PMM Narda 1008 Series MF generator was utilized to generate a
on Dec. 11, 2023. The site is estimated to be 80 m, crossing underneath magnetic field (MF) strength of 10 A/m at the center of the square loop
two TNB overhead transmission lines located at KTP Campus Johar. antenna, as illustrated in Fig. 8a.
These transmission lines consist of a 132 kV double-circuit and a 132 kV The generation of this specific MF strength requires a current of
quadruple-circuit system. The focus of the MF measurement is on the 11.50 A, which was verified using the Fluke 324 m, as shown in Fig. 8b.
main road, where the main road crosses transmission lines and where To measure the generated MF strength in μT, the EMDEX II meter
the 132 kV double-circuit transmission line and the 132 kV quadruple- was positioned at the center of the loop antenna. The expected result for
circuit voltage system are near each other. the MF conversion of 10 A/m is 12.566 μT, as recorded in Fig. 8c.
2nd Magnetic field (MF) measurements are performed near the site The results of the laboratory test are shown in Table 3. All percent-
marked in blue, as shown in Fig. 6. The measurements were performed ages of errors are within the ±3 % of the acceptable limit given by the
on Jan. 11, 2024. The site is estimated to be 70 m, crossing underneath IEEE standard.
two TNB overhead transmission lines located at Taman University Parit
Raja Johar. These transmission lines consist of two 132 kV double-
3.6. Measurement activities at the site
circuit systems. The focus of the MF measurement is on the main road
crossing transmission lines, where the two 132 kV double-circuit
Fig. 9 shows four different activities involved in measuring the dis-
transmission line systems are near each other.
tance of a path or track. First, an EMDEX II meter is set up to ensure
accurate distance measurements shown in Fig. 9a. Next, the LINDA
wheel is used to measure the distance traveled while maintaining
consistent height and distance Fig. 9b. The best paths are then evaluated

5
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 9. Summary of measurement activities (a) Setting EMDEX II meter. (b) Using the LINDA wheel for consistent height and distance. (c) Assessing best paths. (d)
Downloading data.

6
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 10. Dimensions of the 132 kV double circuit and quadrupole double circuit transmission line.

Table 4
Double circuit 132 kV and Quadrupole circuit 132 kV Design parameters.
Parameters Values

Conductors position Double circuit 132 kV

Circuit 1 Circuit 2
x(m) Current(A) y(m) x(m) Current(A) y Phase(deg)
A1 − 2.05 50 19.3 A2 3.05 100 19.3 120
B1 − 4.05 50 13.6 B2 7.05 100 13.6 − 120
C1 − 2.05 50 9 C2 5.05 100 9 0
Quadrupole circuit 132 kV
Circuit 1 Circuit 2
x(m) y(m) Current(A) Phase (deg) x(m) y(m) Current(A) Phase (deg)
A1 9.15 34.0 350 0 A2 25.05 34.0 250 240
B1 9.15 28.3 350 120 B2 25.55 28.3 250 120
C1 9.15 22.6 350 240 C2 25.05 22.6 250 0
Circuit 3 Circuit 4
x(m) y(m) Current(A) Phase(deg) x(m) y(m) Current(A) Phase(deg)
A3 13.55 17.2 350 240 A4 25.05 17.2 320 0
B3 13.55 13.2 350 120 B4 25.55 13.2 320 120
C3 13.55 9.2 350 0 C4 25.05 9.2 320 240
Conductor Air Ground Boundary type

Diameter 21.7m Diameter 200 m Diameter 200 m Air Ballon

Permittivity 1 Permittivity 1 Permittivity 0.05 S/m Ground Ballon
Conductivity 3.8 × 108 S/m Conductivity Null Conductivity Null Frequency 50Hz

based on factors such as safety and accessibility Fig. 9c. Finally, the data line are shown in Fig. 10. The simulation of the first measurement of the
collected from the measurement activities is downloaded, which in- model simulates the MF underneath the crossing of the 132 kV double-
cludes information on distance and height Fig. 9d. circuit transmission line and the 132 kV quadruple-circuit voltage sys-
tem. Table 4 shows the design parameters for the double circuit 132 kV
3.7. Design simulation and quadrupole circuit 132 kV. For suspension insulators, the lengths of
the insulators and the calculated sag of the conductors are subtracted
In order to validate the magnetic field measurement, the measure- from the conductors’ positions in the y-direction to determine their
ment was simulated using the 2D Ansys Maxwell model. Dimensions of exact coordinates. In the case of tension insulators, only the calculated
the 132 kV double circuit and quadrupole double circuit transmission sag is subtracted from the conductors’ positions in the y-direction to

7
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Table 5
Ansys Maxwell simulation design parameters of 132 kV double circuits
Parameters Values

Conductors position Double circuit 132 kV

Circuit 1 Circuit 2
x(m) Current(A) y(m) Phase(deg) x(m) Current(A) y Phase(deg)
A1 − 6.11 50 23.4 120 C2 3.5 70 23.4 0
B1 − 7.11 55 19.7 − 120 B2 4.5 75 19.7 − 120
C1 − 6.11 75 16.5 0 A2 3.5 60 16.5 120
Double circuit
Circuit 3 Circuit 4
x(m) y(m) Current(A) Phase (deg) x(m) y(m) Current (A) Phase(deg)
A3 19.5 12.8 420 0 C4 33.86 12.8 350 120
B3 18.5 9.8 100 − 120 B4 34.86 19.8 50 − 120
C3 19.5 6.8 100 120 A4 33.86 6.8 100 0
Conductor Air Ground Boundary type

Diameter 21.7m Diameter 200 m Diameter 200 m Air Ballon

Permittivity 1 Permittivity 1 Permittivity 0.05 S/m Ground Ballon
Conductivity 3.8 × 108 S/m Conductivity Null Conductivity Null Frequency 50Hz

Fig. 11. Ansys Maxwell 2D OTL simulation model. (a) design model.

Fig. 12. Ansys Maxwell instantaneous magnetic flux density.

8
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

As a result, the MF radiation from conductors with a transposed phase

configuration is illustrated in Fig. 14 (b). The model is solved using an
eddy current solver, which allows the calculation of MF oscillating with
a frequency of 50 Hz, and results are generated in instantaneous mag-
netic flux density values over a 20 ms period. The instantaneous mag-
netic flux density distributions for transposed conductor configurations
within that period are presented in Fig. 15.

4. Results

4.1. Measured result

The 1st measurement procedure involved following a straight path

starting from point A and ending at point B, approximately 80 m. Our
analysis included the measurement underneath areas that crossed the
transmission lines, taking four events under each conductor.
The average magnetic field values for four events under each double
circuit and quadrupole circuit of a total of 80m are as follows. For the
double circuits, the average magnetic field values are 0.78 μT for event 1
and 1.57 μT for event 2. For the quadrupole circuits, the average mag-
netic field values are 2.45 μT for event 3 and 2.57 μT for event 4. The
average maximum value of the magnetic field is 2.83 μT, as shown in
Table 6, and graph is shown in Fig. 16.
The 2nd measurement procedure involved following a straight path,
Fig. 13. Dimensions of the 132 kV double circuit transmission line.
and measurements were taken two times, in the morning and noon,
starting from point A and ending at point B, approximately 80 m. Our
ascertain their exact coordinates. Simulations were taken at the crossing analysis included the measurement underneath areas that crossed the
of transmission lines at maximum sag rather than along the length of the transmission lines, taking four events from 1 to four under each
transmission lines. conductor.
The simulation model is shown in Fig. 11a. The Measurement of MF The measurements in the morning and the average magnetic field
is taken at the height of 1 m above ground level along an 80-m Right of values for four events under each double circuit for a total of 70m are as
Way (ROW), which is a standard practice in MF exposure assessment follows. For the first double circuit, the average magnetic field values
studies. As a result, the MF radiation from conductors with a transposed are 1.47 μT for event 1 at the first conductor and 2.23 μT for event 2 at
phase configuration is illustrated in Fig. 11b. The model is solved using the second conductor. For the second double circuit, the average mag-
an eddy current solver, which allows the calculation of MF oscillating netic field values are 3.45 μT for event 3 at the first conductor and 3.57
with a frequency of 50 Hz, and results are generated in instantaneous μT for event 4 at the second conductor. The maximum value of the
magnetic flux density values over a 20 ms period. The instantaneous magnetic field is 3.57 μT.
magnetic flux density distributions for transposed conductor configu- The measurement at noon average magnetic field values for four
rations within that period are presented in Fig. 12. events under each double circuit of a total of 70m is as follows. For the
The simulation of the second measurement of MF was taken at a first double circuit, the average magnetic field values are 1.57 μT for
height of 1 m above ground level along an 80 m right of way (ROW). The event 1 at the first conductor and 2.27 μT for event 2 at the second
dimensions of these 132 kV double circuits, illustrated in Fig. 13, conductor. For the second double circuit, the average magnetic field
correspond to the conductors’ positions listed in Table 5 which is stan- values are 3.39 μT for event 3 at the first conductor and 3.43 μT for event
dard practice in MF exposure assessment studies, as shown in Fig. 14a.

Fig. 14. Ansys Maxwell 2D OTL simulation model. (a) design model, (b) distribution of magnetic field levels.

9
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 15. Ansys Maxwell 2D OTL simulation model. (a) design model, (b) distribution of magnetic field levels, and (c) instantaneous magnetic flux density.

the RMS magnetic flux density, these instantaneous magnetic flux den-
Table 6 sity profiles are exported into Microsoft Excel and processed in a point-
Measured magnetic field values. by-point calculation using equation (1) [21]. The maximum RMS mag-
Average magnetic field (μT) netic flux density level is only at 2.81 μT for double and quadruple
circuits; the results are shown in Fig. 18, and the maximum RMS mag-
First double circuit Quadrupole double circuit Average Maximum Value
netic flux density level is only at 3.5 μT for two double circuits; the re-
Event 1 Event 2 Event 3 Event 4 2.83
sults are shown in Fig. 19. These values are significantly lower than the
0.78 1.57 2.45 2.57
100 μT exposure limits specified by the ICNIRP.
√̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅
√ N
4 at the second conductor. The average maximum value of the magnetic √1 ∑
BRMS = √ B2 (1)
field is 3.53 μT, as shown in Table 7. And graph is shown in Fig. 17. N K=1 k

where.
4.2. Simulation results Bk= Instantaneous value of magnetic flux value.
N = Total number of magnetic flux value.
The results show that the following step-by-step procedures are used
to develop 2D magnetic field distribution level simulation from over-
head transmission lines using Ansys Maxwell software. In order to obtain

Fig. 16. Magnetic Field measurement of double circuits and quadrupole circuits.

10
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Table 7 shown in Figs. 20 and 21, which are summarized in Table 8, respec-
Measured magnetic field values. tively, and it was found that the measurement outcome closely matched
Average magnetic field (μT) the simulated magnetic field with very few errors.
Morning First double Second double Average
measurement circuit circuit Maximum Value 5. Future direction
Event Event Event Event 3.57
1 2 3 4 The following suggestions are made for future research to strengthen
1.47 2.23 3.45 3.57 and broaden these two elements:
Noon 1.57 2.27 3.39 3.43 3.53
measurement
Magnetic field level measurement is used to investigate electro-
magnetic compatibility between MF radiation from overhead trans-
mission lines (OTL) systems and sensitive electrical equipment. Due to
4.3. Comparison of simulated and measured magnetic field scarce land space, developing institutions with sensitive equipment
(hospitals, broadcast stations, etc.) near OTL systems is inevitable. There
The simulated and measured magnetic fields were compared for is a possibility that sensitive equipment might suffer damage and mal-
validation and also compared with ICNIRP limit in occupational and function due to the extremely low frequency (ELF) Electromagnetic field
general exposure values. For first measurements, Double circuit and (EMF) radiation from the OTL system. Such scenarios have raised con-
quadruple circuit, and for second measurements, two double circuits are cerns, leading to an MF-level measurement project in Cyberjaya,

Fig. 17. Magnetic Field measurement of two double circuits.

Fig. 18. Simulated results of Magnetic Fields.

11
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 19. Simulated results of Magnetic Fields.

Fig. 20. Magnetic flux density comparison between simulated and Measurement.

Malaysia (confidential). The MF-level measurement planning and pro- reconductoring, and insulated cross-arm (ICA) methods might influence
cedures presented in this research can be used as guidelines and prep- decision-making in the search for the optimal solution to improve
arations. However, additional information regarding the limitation of existing OTL systems while maintaining MF radiation limitations.
electromagnetic compatibility between MF radiation from OTL systems
and sensitive electrical equipment is required. By conducting the mea- 6. Conclusions
surement, further evaluation can be made to conclude whether the
development can be pursued or if extra MF shielding is needed. This paper presents the results of magnetic field measurements
Examine the possibility of utilizing Mu-metal for electromagnetic conducted under outdoor high-voltage power lines at two different lo-
shielding. This alloy has a high permeability and can decrease MF ra- cations and times. The measurements were taken using the EMDEXII
diation emitted by OTL systems. It is commonly used to shield sensitive magnetic field digital exposure meter and its associated software. The
electronic equipment from static or low-frequency MF. The effectiveness first measurement site had two 132 kV double-circuit transmission lines,
of Mu-metal for this cause can be studied and simulated using Ansys while the second site had one 132 kV double-circuit line and one 132 kV
Maxwell engineering software. quadruple-circuit system. The measurements were taken in December
Additionally, any modification plan toward the massive structure of 2023 and February 2024. The study found that areas beneath the
OTL systems is restricted by cost limitations. Comprehensive cost eval- transmission lines with the highest levels of magnetic field intensities
uation involving conductor selection, implementation of were identified by analyzing the measured results. Graphs were used to

12
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

Fig. 21. Magnetic flux density comparison between simulated and Measurement.

Declaration of competing interest

Table 8
Magnetic field values with ICNIRP limit. The authors declare that they have no known competing financial
Magnetic field values(μT) interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence
Average Measured Simulated ICNIRP
the work reported in this paper.
maximum magnetic magnetic
values field field Data availability
1st 2.83 2.8 Occupational General
measurement Exposure Exposure No data was used for the research described in the article.
2nd 3.57 3.6 500 100
Measurement
Acknowledgements

present the measured magnetic field levels, making it easier to identify This research was supported by Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia
areas with strong magnetic fields. The magnetic field values were (UTHM).
compared to the safety standards set for personnel exposure limits. For
both double and quadruple circuits, the maximum RMS magnetic flux References
density level was only 2.81 μT, while for two double circuits, it was only
[1] Statistics - Malaysia Energy Information Hub.”[Link]
3.5 μT. The simulated and measured magnetic fields were compared for [2] Prime Minister’s Department Department Of Statistics Malaysia Press Releaseh
validation and compared with the ICNIRP limit in occupational and ttps://[Link]/portal-main/landingv2.
general exposure values. The study found that the measurement [3] Department of Statistics Malaysia, Department of Statistics Malaysia Current
Population Estimates 2020, Department of Statistics Malaysia Official Portal, July,
outcome closely matched the simulated magnetic field with very few 2020. [Link]
errors for both double circuit and quadruple circuit measurements and [4] S. Sarah Sulaiman, R. Md Khali, N. Hamizah Aminudin, Legal issues and challenges
two double circuit measurements. in regulating the rights to wayleave in Malaysia, Int. J. Eng. Technol. 7 (3.30)
(2018) 174, [Link]
[5] A.A. Raj, C. Ping Lee, M.F. Sidek, Protection against EMF at transmission line and
CRediT authorship contribution statement tower, PECon 2020 - 2020 IEEE International Conference on Power and Energy
(2020) 376–381, [Link]
[6] Electromagnetic Waves and their Properties, Physics LibreTexts, Sep 22 (2018).
Matiullah Ahsan: Writing – original draft, Visualization, Validation, [Link]
Software, Methodology, Investigation, Formal analysis, Data curation, [7] G. Ziegelberger, ICNIRP statement on the ‘guidelines for limiting exposure to time-
varying electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields (UP to 300 GHz). https://
Conceptualization. Md Nor Ramdon Baharom: Writing – review &
[Link]/10.1097/HP.0b013e3181aff9db, 2009.
editing, Supervision, Software, Resources, Project administration, [8] A description of ICNIRP’S independent, best practice system of guidance on the
Formal analysis. Zainab Zainal: Supervision, Project administration. protection of people and the environment from exposure to non-ionizing radiation,
Ihsan Ullah Khalil: Supervision, Project administration. Health Phys. 122 (5) (May 2022) 625–628, [Link]
hp.0000000000001561.
[9] 644-2019 - IEEE standard procedures for measurement of power frequency electric
Declaration of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the and magnetic fields from AC power lines, IEEE (2020), [Link]
IEEESTD.2020.9068517.
writing process [10] A. Ahlbom, et al., A pooled analysis of magnetic fields and childhood leukaemia,
Br. J. Cancer 83 (5) (2000), [Link]
During the preparation of this work the author(s) used Grammarly in [11] S. Greenland, A.R. Sheppard, W.T. Kaune, C. Poole, M.A. Kelsh, A pooled analysis
of magnetic fields, wire codes, and childhood leukemia, Epidemiology 11 (6)
order to rectify grammatical errors. After using Grammarly, the author (2000), [Link]
(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and take(s) full re-
sponsibility for the content of the publication.

13
M. Ahsan et al. Results in Engineering 23 (2024) 102688

[12] P. Semm, Neurobiological investigations on the magnetic sensitivity of the pineal [26] Malaysian Standard Guidelines for limiting exposure to time-varying electric,
gland in rodents and pigeons, Comp. Biochem. Physiol. A Physiol. 76 (4) (1983), magnetic and electromagnetic fields-Part 2: for frequency from 100 kHz to 300
[Link] GHz (First revision). [Link] 2021.
[13] B.W. Wilson, R.G. Stevens, L.E. Anderson, Minireview: neuroendocrine mediated [27] H. Pei, Q. Zhang, L. Zhang, F. Zhou, C. Chen, K. Niu, Application of compact type
effects of electromagnetic-field exposure: possible role of the pineal gland, Life Sci. composite cross arm in tower design. [Link]
45 (15) (1989), [Link] 2018.
[14] H. Truong, S.M. Yellon, Effect of various acute 60 Hz magnetic field exposures on [28] Emdex II - low frequency magnetic field exposure system. [Link]
the nocturnal melatonin rise in the adult Djungarian hamster, J. Pineal Res. 22 (4) [Link]/[Link]. (Accessed 24 July 2024).
(1997), [Link] [29] M. Röösli, D. Jenni, L. Kheifets, G. Mezei, Extremely low frequency magnetic field
[15] S.M. Yellon, Acute 60 Hz magnetic field exposure effects on the melatonin rhythm measurements in buildings with transformer stations in Switzerland, Science of the
in the pineal gland and circulation of the adult Djungarian hamster, J. Pineal Res. total environment 409 (18) (2011) 3364–3369, [Link]
16 (3) (1994), [Link] scitotenv.2011.05.041.
[16] K. Yaga, R.J. Reiter, L.C. Manchester, H. Nieves, S. Jih-Hsing, C. Li-Dun, Pineal [30] M. Bonato, E. Chiaramello, M. Parazzini, P. Gajšek, P. Ravazzani, Extremely low
sensitivity to pulsed static magnetic fields changes during the photoperiod, Brain frequency electric and magnetic fields exposure: survey of recent findings, IEEE J
Res. Bull. 30 (1–2) (1993), [Link] Electromagn RF Microw Med Biol (2023), [Link]
[17] A. Lerchl, K.O. Nonaka, R.J. Reiter, Pineal gland ‘magnetosensitivity’ to static jerm.2023.3268555.
magnetic fields is a consequence of induced electric currents (eddy currents), [31] E. De, J. Belgium, C I R E D 22nd international conference on electricity
J. Pineal Res. 10 (3) (1991), [Link] distribution special report-session 2 power quality and electromagnetic
x. compatibility. [Link]
[18] A. Huss, A. Spoerri, M. Egger, M. Röösli, Residence near power lines and mortality /[Link], 2013.
from neurodegenerative diseases: longitudinal study of the Swiss population, Am. [32] S.R.L. Socio Unico, NARDA Safety Test Solutions, 2020. [Link].
J. Epidemiol. 169 (2) (2009), [Link] [33] Clamp Meter Users Manual, 2012. [Link]
[19] V.S. Jimbin, N.A. Ahmad, Magnetic field measurement from 132/275 KV overhead [Link].
power lines, J Teknol 79 (1) (2017), [Link] [34] IEC 61000-4-30:2015,” [Link]. [Link]
[20] A. Fikry, S.C. Lim, M.Z.A. Ab Kadir, EMI radiation of power transmission lines in ion/21844.
Malaysia, F1000Res 10 (2022), [Link] [35] B. Tektaş, M. Salhi, O. Şen, S. Çakir, M. Çetintaş, Alternative magnetic field
[21] D. Medved, M. Pavlik, J. Zbojovsky, Computer modeling of electromagnetic field immunity test by using large loop antenna. [Link]
around the 22 kV high voltage overhead lines. [Link] 90362, sep 2017.
do-epe.2018.8601179, Nov. 2018. [36] Guanghua Lyu, et al., Improved maximum power point tracking algorithms by
[22] S. Ab Ghani, M.S.A. Khiar, I.S. Chairul, N.H. Rahim, S. Hashim, Effects of using numerical analysis techniques for photovoltaic systems, Results in
parameter adjustment on the electromagnetic field of an overhead power engineering 21 (Mar. 2024) 101740, [Link]
transmission line model, Indonesian Journal of Electrical Engineering and rineng.2023.101740, 101740.
Computer Science 30 (2) (2023) 643–650, [Link] [37] F. Colodro, J.L. Mora, F. Barrero, M.R. Arahal, J.M. Martinez-Heredia, Analysis and
pp643-650. simulation of a novel speed estimation method based on oversampling and noise
[23] D.J. Littler, E.J. Davies, H.E. Johnson, EHV Transmission, Volume K, Third Edition, shaping techniques, Results in Engineering 21 (Mar. 2024) 101670, [Link]
1991 st, [Link] org/10.1016/[Link].2023.101670.
dition-58stri5sjmm0. [38] M. Ahsan, M.N.R. Baharom, Z. Zainal, I.U. Khalil, Simulation based comparative
[24] M.T. Bedialauneta, E. Fernandez, I. Albizu, A.J. Mazón, Comparison of the analysis of electric field stress on insulated cross-arm, Results in Engineering 23
theoretical and the actual behavior of an overhead conductor in operation, in: IEEE (Sep. 2024) 102394, [Link]
Power and Energy Society Conference and Exposition in Africa: Intelligent Grid [39] Mati Ullah Ahsan, et al., Historical review of advancements in insulated cross-arm
Integration of Renewable Energy Resources, PowerAfrica 2012, July, 2012, Technology, Energies 15 (21) (Nov. 2022) 8221, [Link]
[Link] en15218221, 8221.
[25] I. Albizu, A.J. Mazón, I. Zamora, Methods for increasing the rating of overhead
lines, 2005 IEEE Russia Power Tech, PowerTech (2005) 1–6, [Link]
10.1109/ptc.2005.4524481.

14