Comparison of space charge behavior in XLPE and EPR with thermal gradient

A comparative study of the space charge behavior in XLPE and EPR in the presence of thermal gradient was conducted. For power cable under load conditions, a temperature gradient is established across the cable insulation. Due to the resistive grading under high voltage direct current, such thermal gradient will result in the accumulation of space charge. A modified pulsed-electroacoustic system was developed so that the space charge behavior in thin films under thermal gradient can be investigated at the development phase of new DC insulation materials. The study indicates the enhancement of the space charge injection and accumulation in XLPE and EPR under DC with the presence of the thermal gradient.