Cable lines - ampacity / 03.07.2025

The system of correction factors

In cable catalogues, in addition to the main types of cables, there are simplified recommendations on cable selection. They are given as a table with capacity currents for basic laying conditions (Ib), as well as a series of 5-8 additional tables with various correction factors (K). It is important to note that the system of

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Overvoltages and protection / 01.07.2025

Where does flashover occur?

Lightning processes are statistical processes. It is hardly possible to study such processes by considering a lightning strike to the line with specific parameters (current, front) or by considering a specific lightning wave coming from the line to the switchgear. To calculate the probability, I normally use ATP/EMTP, which has been changed for the convenience

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Cable lines - parameters / 13.06.2025

Equivalent depth of the current

There is one important concept in the calculations of power transmission lines – this is the equivalent depth of current in the ground (Dg). In symmetrical operating modes (normal mode and three-phase short circuit), there is no electric current in the ground, and this depth is not interesting to us. However, in any unbalanced modes

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Cable lines - safety / 09.06.2025

Cable line transition tower damages

One of the weak points of cable lines is cable joints and terminations. Despite all the efforts of specialists who develop and install the joints/terminations, there are still many damages. The consequences of damage will vary depending on the location features. There are at least the following typical locations:1️⃣ Joints in the ground.2️⃣ Joints in

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Cable lines - ducts / 05.06.2025

Cable duct fire

The materials of the outer sheath of cables usually differ depending on whether the cable is laid in the ground or above the ground (in places where oxygen is available). To avoid cable fires (for example, due to a short circuit), cables for open laying are provided with a non-flammable outer sheath. However, when laying

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Cable lines - screen bonding / 29.05.2025

Cable outer sheath strength

To design the cable line, we need to pass the following stages:✅ Evaluate the electrical strength of the cable outer sheath (jacket) and agree on what is the permissible voltage on the screen.✅ Select the grounding/bonding scheme of the screens (number of sections, cycles, etc.)✅ Perform the thermal calculation of the cable line and select

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Cable lines - not seriously / 26.05.2025

Mistakes with cable lines

The reliability of cable lines depends on a number of factors:1️⃣ Design (including calculations);2️⃣ Production and delivery;3️⃣ Cable laying and termination/joint installation;4️⃣ Cable operation (testing, monitoring, diagnostic etc);5️⃣ Unpredictable actions of third parties. Mistakes at any of these stages can lead to serious financial losses: damage to the cable, the need to repair the damaged

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