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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Basic study of the aging process in solid-dielectric cables (second annual report)

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:5344595

This research program has the two basic objectives of developing an understanding of the basic mechanisms of dielectric aging and of developing an accelerated laboratory test for predicting the service life of underground power transmission cable insulated with solid polyolefin dielectrics. For purposes of this program the polyolefins of interest are limited to conventional low-density polyethylene (LDPE), peroxide-cross-linked, low-density polyethylene (XLPE), and ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR). The program was divided into four sequential tasks: state-of-the-art review of the physics and chemistry of dielectric aging, accelerated life testing, and selected closely related subjects; development of molecular-level models of the dielectric aging process; verification of the aging model through laboratory experimentation with model cables and studies of dielectric material behavior; and development of an accelerated test method and verification of test with full-sized power cable. The general goals and scope of Tasks 1 and 2, which have been completed are reviewed. The initial planning and implementation of Task 3 are described, with detailed discussion of the following activities: detailed planning and initiation of experiments with model cables and slab materials; selection of materials and designs for model cables; manufacture of model cables; evaluation of dielectric materials used for model cable manufacture; establishment of baseline characteristics of model cables; identification of critical equipment and instrument needs; and initial experimental results. (LCL)

Research Organization:
Battelle Columbus Labs., OH (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC01-77ET29239
OSTI ID:
5344595
Report Number(s):
DOE/ET/29239-2; ON: DE82008257
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English