3308 Assessing the condition and remaining life of underground electrical cables

Overview:

This publication provides practical independent guidance on assessing the condition and remaining life of underground electrical power cables. It describes the onsite methods used to test underground electrical cables rated above 1 000 V phase to phase with paper insulated, lead covered (PILC), crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) and ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) insulation. The test methods are applicable to generation, power distribution, high voltage (HV) motor and HV industrial cable types used in generation plants. A section is also included on subsea export and array cables for offshore wind farms.

This publication is primarily intended for engineers carrying out onsite testing of underground electrical cables and asset managers who may be instructing others to carry out such testing. It also provides useful information for anyone wishing to understand the results of electrical cable testing and condition assessment reports, including engineers in other industries, students, engineering managers and consultants.