3308 Assessing the condition and remaining life of underground electrical cables

Overview:

Approaches to assessing the condition of electrical power cables have changed considerably over time. Previously, underground cables were generally left in service until failure rates became unacceptable, at which point replacement was considered. In contrast, a wide range of cable condition assessment techniques and systems is now available, which can make the subject difficult to navigate.

Although numerous technical papers have been published, many focus on individual test methods and are often authored by specialists associated with test equipment manufacturers, favouring their own company’s methods and equipment.

To address this gap, the Energy Institute (EI) Electrical Committee (EC) commissioned this work to provide practical, independent guidance on assessing the condition and remaining service life of underground electrical power cables. Where relevant and authoritative publications already exist, these have been referenced to avoid unnecessary duplication.

The primary audience for this publication is engineers working within the energy generation industry. However, it is also intended to be of value to engineers in other sectors, as well as to students, engineering managers and consultants with an interest in underground cable asset management.