Energy resources are becoming expensive and
a need for energy efficient solutions is called for. Utility operators
understand the need for efficient underground systems which will operate
without hindrance. The efficiency of electrical cable can be compared to that
of pipes, which have water entering and leaving from them. Efficient pipes
facilitate this flow of water, while inefficient pipes will cause loss of
water. Similarly, efficiency cable design and materials facilitates flow of
electricity and inefficiency gives way to electricity leaks- energy loss. What
makes underground electric distribution systems efficient? Let’s have a look:
Conductor Design and Choice of Material
The resistance of the material of conductor
to the flow of electricity can result in energy loss. Due to resistance,
electrical energy is transformed into heat energy which fails to reach the
cable. It is therefore important to keep the resistance below thermal limit of
the cable components. Using solid copper conductors instead of aluminium ones
can help in reducing the electrical losses.
Insulation System
The efficiency of insulation systems depend
on a variety of factors such as operating conditions, environmental issues, and
ambient conditions. While these may vary, physical and electrical
characteristics of the material have the most influence on insulation
efficiency. When selecting the insulation material, dielectric loss should be
considered at high operating voltages. At double voltage, the dielectric loss
is quadrupled.
Metallic Shield
In order to reduce copper usage, the
metallic shield of a cable can also be optimized. A good choice for jacket
material can be linear low-density polyethylene. It has superior physical
properties with its benefits exceeding the costs. Cross-linked polyethylene
cable jacket material also proves effective in reducing copper concentric
neutrals.
Smart choices of conductor design, insulation, and metallic shields can help improve efficiency in underground distribution systems by minimizing losses in energy. These choices must be made with the utmost care, utilising the expert opinion of utility companies.
Smart choices of conductor design, insulation, and metallic shields can help improve efficiency in underground distribution systems by minimizing losses in energy. These choices must be made with the utmost care, utilising the expert opinion of utility companies.
About The Company
The GlobalKlass Groupe Inc. is an all in one
supplier and engineering firm. The company provides equipment and solutions for
Electrical Transmission and Distribution, Communication, Industrial Control,
Automation, Security and Smart City. With over 15 years of experience in these
fields, GlobalKlass offers standalone products like Nulec, Schneider and Sfecor
among others. GKG is a Miami based company with offices in Mexico, Colombia,
Costa Rica, Brazil, and Venezuela.
