Tuesday, November 4, 2014

How to Improve Energy Efficiency in Underground Distribution Systems

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. 

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. 

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