Comparison of Power Cables Current Rating Calculation Methods

In the industry practise power cables current rating calculations are on the majority of cases made on the basis of the IEC 60287 standard. The standard is built on a number of well-established methods and techniques, though, based on specific assumptions. An alternative approach is to use more sophisticated tools, such as the finite element method (FEM). In this paper comparison of the IEC 60287 standard and the FEM current carrying calculations is performed. A benchmarking underground cable system proposed by the CIGRE working group B1.56 is used. Results reveal that non-conservative approach of the IEC 60287 standard resulting into poor estimation of power cables current rating capability.