Measured and simulated time-evolution PD characteristics of typical installation defects in MV XLPE cable terminations

In condition monitoring of medium voltage (MV) power cable accessories, there are still challenges in the recognition of partial discharge (PD) defects. In the present paper, typical installation defects were deliberately introduced into MV XLPE power cable terminations. Accelerated ageing under PD activity was achieved by applying voltage at elevated frequency for 900 hours. At suitable time intervals, off-line PD measurements were conducted for each test specimen at 50 Hz test voltage. The results show that the initial PD signatures in the form of Partial Discharge Phase-Resolved-Patterns (PDPRP) are unique for each defect type. The signatures in turn evolve uniquely under continuous voltage application. A modified 3-Capacitor PD model based on the physiochemical processes in the discharge area was implemented in MATLAB Simulink™. The measured initial PD characteristics and the subsequent time-dependent changes were interpreted by comparison with the computer numerical simulation results. It is confirmed that the conductivity of the discharging surface area as well as the voltage at which the cavity breaks down, both change with ageing under PD activity, are the dominant parameters that influence the time-evolution of the PD signatures. Furthermore, the geometry and ventilation of the discharge area is a function of the installation defect type and therefore each defect type gives a unique PD signature. The ability to recognise installation defect through PD tests immediately after installation as well as during the course of on-line PD monitoring is desirable in condition monitoring of power cables. The findings strengthen the credibility of PD diagnosis as an after-installation test as well as in-service condition monitoring technique of MV power cable terminations.