Transverse cutting line and longitudinal cutting line are two kinds of open circuit modes commonly used in power system.

Transverse cutting refers to cutting the wire in the power system (usually the insulated wire on the overhead line) in a transverse way to achieve the disconnection of the wire. The transverse cutting wire can be operated by devices such as switches or knives, and is often used for temporary isolation of faulty lines, maintenance or overhaul work. The main feature of the transverse cut wire is that it will form a large short circuit current after the break, so it should be used with caution and pay attention to the impact of the ground current and high voltage equipment.

The slitting line is to cut the wire in the power system in a longitudinal manner. It is a common way used in the power distribution system, generally through the normal closing, off the load switch and other methods to achieve longitudinal secant. Scuttling lines are often used to control power systems in segments, manage different loads on demand, and run multiple circuits in parallel. Slitting wire usually does not have the problem of large short circuit current as transverse shear wire, but it also needs to pay attention to operation and maintenance performance.

In general, transverse cutting and longitudinal cutting are two commonly used wire breaking methods in power systems. Transverse shear lines are suitable for temporarily disconnecting faulty lines or performing maintenance work, while longitudinal shear lines are often used for segmented control of different loads in the system. When using these two methods, it is necessary to pay attention to the protection of operation and power equipment.