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Everything You Should Know About XLPE Power Cables

XLPE Power Cables

XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) power cables are strongly bonded together to form a network that is completely resistant to deformation even under high temperature and pressure. To manufacture XLPW power cables, polyethylene is heated under high temperature and pressure to transform thermoplastic material into elastic material.

XLPE Power Cables

The best part of using XLPE power cables for industries is that it is suitable to work with both medium and high voltage that causes minimum dielectric loss. Further, mutual capacitance of XLPE cables is also very low that results into low leakage of currents inside wires.

Characteristics and advantages of XLPE cables

  • XLPE cables are widely utilized for dimension lines due to its excellent physical and mechanical properties.
  • They are completely resistant to thermal deformation and capable of carrying large currents inside wires. The wires also resist short circuits and able to withstand extreme environmental conditions too.
  • The XLPE cables are light in weight and allow easy and reliable installation. Further termination methods for XLPE cables are also simpler when compared to traditional techniques or methods.
  • XLPE cables can be extended up to any height and easy to maintain as well. The chances of failure are rare in case of XLPE power cables that results into low maintenance and installation costs.
  • No metallic sheath is required for XLPE cables that prevent fatigue and corrosion to larger extent.

XLPE power cables – Manufacturing process

Leading manufacturers always use sophisticated tools and technologies for manufacturing power cables that is completely dry and water free vulcanizing gas process. The process reduces chances of external contaminants that make any cable high quality and durable too. The completed insulated layer with two semiconducting screens over it avoids contaminants to enter inside cables.

Stable temperature controls are achieved by multiple temperature controller trays inside. Custom power cables can also be manufactured by experts based on customer needs and project demands. The various functions of power cables are performed by temperature synchronization, monitoring, and automated operations.

Structural Design and performance of XLPE power cables

The XLPE power cables should always be designed as per international quality standards to work with different voltage and pressure. Copper or aluminum conductors are utilized for power cables to ensure smooth surface that is completely damage free and assure maximum performance for the applications. These cables are even able to work under heavy electrical stresses and pressure conditions.

High quality XLPE power cables are generally insulated with semi-conducting screens to protect it against damage and to offer maximum protection against electrical stresses. The conductors are adjusted so well between wires that it creates an envelope of protection around conductor.

Further insulation layer can be stripped or bonded; it completely depends on custom needs and industrial demands. Stripped power cables are good for medium voltage apps and bonded power cables are good for high voltage apps. A metallic layer of copper provides earthed envelope around the conductor.

XLPE power cables processes

It has already been verified that XLPE cables are good to use for overload temperature conditions. These cables are popular for carried our current accurately to restrict thermo mechanical issues. Further XLPE power cables are able to withstand partial discharge problems, excessive moisture, impulse test, dielectric stresses etc.

The power cables should also be tested on various quality parameters to make sure that they are designed or manufactured accurately to assure optimum performance of the product. Stringent quality tests should be performed by the team to make sure highly efficient and optimum product.

Possible test procedures for XLPE cables

The most popular tests that are performed by expert team to assure high quality product are routine test, type test, special test or after installation tests. These tests are performed to check various design issue, problems related to functionalities, performance issues, installation issues etc. Only after performing these tests, cables are considered certified and secure for industrial applications.

From above discussion, it is clear that XLPE power cables has to pass through several phase before it is transformed to final product for delivery. Custom solutions are also offered by team to suit wide industrial demands and project needs. To put your special order, contact leading manufacturers