Accelerated aging of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE and TR XLPE) cable insulations in wet conditions

The effects of wet service conditions and accelerated aging of cables on the density of insulations and their electrical characteristics (breakdown voltage-AC BDV) have been studied. The accelerated aging of crosslinked polyethylene cable insulations: steam and dry cured with water tree retardant crosslinked polyethylene (TR-XLPE) and without water tree retardant crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) was performed at elevated temperatures and high pressure of oxygen. During tests, the tap water was injected (1) into the cable conductor with cable ends closed. The crosslinked polyethylene cable insulations together with the water present in the cable were subjected to electrical stress and heating. The results of water absorption, and electrical characteristics are discussed.