Optimized Thermal Rating Method for Pipe-Laying Cable with Incomplete Backfill of High Thermal Conductivity Material

Pipeline laying is one of the primary ways for cable laying. Researching strategies to improve the ampacity of pipe-laying cable is crucial for the efficient utilization of cable assets. Studies suggest that backfilling with high thermal conductivity material can significantly improve the ampacity. To optimize the use of high thermal conductivity material, it is essential to investigate the relationship between the filling height and the improvement of ampacity. A thermal field simulation model for cable installation in pipelines is developed, then the heat flow distribution within the pipe at various filling heights of high thermal conductivity material is examined. Additionally, an optimized thermal rating method with varying filling heights is introduced, along with a method for determining the key parameters required by the algorithm. The comparison between the method's results and simulation outcomes indicates a strong correlation, with a maximum deviation of no more than 3.5°C. Consequently, the optimized method exhibits sufficient computational accuracy and satisfies the requirement for a rapid ampacity assessment when high thermal conductivity material is partially filled in the pipeline.