A study on breakdown phenomena in XLPE power cable

In order to clarify the factors involved in breakdown under AC and lightning impulse voltages, the authors have developed a prebreakdown detection method, and have discovered a number of facts concerning the factors determining the breakdown of insulation in XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) cables. Experimental results reveal that impurities in the insulation constitute the governing factor in breakdown under AC voltages, whereas breakdown under impulse voltages is predominantly governed by protrusions in the shielding layers.<
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