Successful testing of 345-kV XLPE cables and premolded joints at IREQ

Extruded polymeric cables and accessories are an alternative to self-contained fluid filled (SCFF) cables for extra-high-voltage (EHV) systems. Crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulated cables have many advantages over the traditional fluid-filled pressurized cable system with the elimination of the hydraulic system and the associated equipment and complications during the installation and operation/maintenance of such systems. Other advantages of the extruded cable system arise from the new accessory technologies and the use of splices and terminations that are prefabricated and pretested in the factory and require less time to install on site. Concerns over the long term reliability of high voltage cable systems, in particular the accessories and the lack of service experience above 300 kV led to the decision of Hydro-Quebec to carry out a prequalification (long-term) test program to assess the reliability of the cable materials and to verify the cable and accessory installation methods to be employed. The cables were installed in duct banks and manholes simulating actual installation conditions used in Hydro-Quebec underground cable network. This paper describes the program and results of the prequalification tests of 345-kV XLPE cables and accessories performed at Hydro-Quebec's Research Institute (IREQ) in partnership with three international cable manufacturers, Alcatel, Fujikura and Pirelli.