Effect of mechanical pressure and silicone grease on partial discharge characteristics for model XLPE transmission cable joint

This paper reports on the effects of mechanical pressure and silicone grease on the partial discharge (PD) characteristics at EPR-epoxy interfaces in model cable joints. An ultra wide band PD detection system was used. The PD parameters investigated are: rise time, width, fall time, amplitude, inception voltage and frequency of pulses. PD can cause degradation and eventually lead to breakdown. The presence of air bubbles or contaminants at interfaces enhances the local electric field and initiate PD. The effectiveness of mechanical pressure and/or silicone grease to reduce PD activity was demonstrated.