Long-Life Insulation for Industrial and Utility Cables

The development, manufacture, performance test, and installation of an industrial or utility cable that utilizes a new-generation tree-retardant insulation is reviewed in detail. The insulation material used for this cable offers improved resistance to dielectric aging caused by water-tree formation. Detailed data showing improvement over conventional cross-lined polyethylene (XLPE) is reviewed. Association of Edison Illuminating Companies (AEIC) -5 qualification data on full-size cables will also be reviewed. A typical installation involving replacement of an industrial cable using the tree-retardant insulation will be described.