Two-Dimensional Quasi-Stationary Temperature Rise in Multicable Configurations Under Arbitrary Cyclic Load

The quasi-stationary temperature field is computed for a buried multicable system under an arbitrary cyclic load. The technique is based upon the development of a discretized complex heat equation, relying on finite elements approach, solved by direct frontal solution for a sinusoidal load pattern. The response to an arbitrary pattern is then found by using Fourier analysis. This versatile simulation makes it possible to calculate with great accuracy cyclic temperature fields for nearly all cable configurations. It removes many of the usual limiting assumptions and is used to ascertain their numerical influence.