What is the consequence of an overloaded transmission line beyond its safety limits?

An overloaded transmission line beyond its safety limits can lead to serious consequences, including potential damage to the system. When a transmission line is subjected to loads that exceed its designed capacity, it may experience overheating. This overheating can cause the physical components of the line, such as the conductors and supporting structures, to deteriorate or fail, leading to costly outages and repairs.

Additionally, an overloaded line can impact the electrical grid's stability, increasing the risk of cascading failures that could affect various parts of the power system. This makes it critical for utilities to monitor line loads closely and implement measures to prevent overloading. The key takeaway is that exceeding the safety limits of a transmission line creates significant risks that can compromise both the infrastructure and the reliability of the electricity supply.