Development of 500-kV XLPE cables and accessories for long-distance underground transmission lines. V. Long-term performance for 500-kV XLPE cables and joints

500-kV XLPE-insulated cable with an insulation thickness of 27 mm and its joint have been developed for long distance transmission lines. First, in the basic research made from 1989 to 1992, elicited were the performance-determining factors of XLPE cables and joints. Their respective insulation designs were made in terms of these factors. On the basis of these designs, full-sized cables and joints were manufactured in the course of the development research performed from 1992 to 1993. The next step was to evaluate the initial electrical performance to estimate the suitability of our designs. As the final step of our series of researches so far carried out, a long-term loading cycle test was carried out by means of a model line with joints as installed and using the same techniques as employed in the actual commercial lines for full eight months. We could thus verify the long-term reliability for commercial use. The authors discuss EMI, performance dominating effects and quality control, and initial and long term electrical performance testing.