Colorful balls on power lines serve an important purpose. They help increase visibility and ensure safety for aircraft and surrounding areas.
Have you ever noticed colorful balls hanging from power lines while driving or walking?
These bright spheres might catch your eye, but they serve a very important purpose.
What are these colorful balls?
The colorful balls you see on power lines are called aerial marker balls or visibility markers.
They are designed to alert low-flying aircraft about the presence of power lines.
These markers are essential for safety, especially in areas where planes often fly at lower altitudes.
What are the colorful balls on power lines for?
Bright colors for visibility
Low-flying planes can be at risk of hitting power lines, which can lead to serious accidents.
This is especially true in places near lakes, rivers, or canyons, where planes may fly lower for various reasons.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has guidelines for installing these markers to help prevent such accidents.
By making the power lines more visible, these balls help protect both pilots in the air and people on the ground.
Colors like orange, yellow, and white are chosen specifically because they stand out against various backgrounds.
This high visibility is crucial for pilots who need to spot these markers from a distance.
The bright colors help them identify potential hazards quickly.
Material and design ensure maximum safety.
You might be surprised to learn that these marker balls are made of plastic.
This choice of material is important because plastic does not conduct electricity or heat.
As a result, the balls do not interfere with the power lines, ensuring both safety and functionality.
The plastic is also durable, allowing the balls to withstand harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rain.
Their size and weight
Aerial marker balls come in different sizes, typically ranging from 20 to 36 inches in diameter.
Despite their large appearance, these balls usually weigh between 11 and 17 pounds.
This balance of size and weight makes them easy to attach to power lines while ensuring they remain stable in windy conditions.
The history of marker balls
The story of aerial marker balls dates back to the early 1970s.
At that time, Winthrop Rockefeller, the governor of Arkansas, was flying with Edward Holland, who led the Arkansas Department of Aeronautics.
During their flight, Rockefeller noticed that power lines were dangerously close to their plane as it descended.
Concerned for the safety of pilots and passengers, he urged Holland to find a way to make these lines more visible.
To solve this problem, Holland contacted an engineer named Jack Rutledge.
Rutledge designed the bright, eye-catching balls that we see today.
His innovation made it easier for pilots to spot power lines, ultimately enhancing aviation safety.