Very High Tension Cables with Extruded Polyethylene Insulation

In this present paper, we examine the research work which has been carried out on polyethylene, laboratory tests and the experience acquired with high and very high voltage cables in service in the French network. The use of polyethylene for cables is under study in a number of countries, mainly in the United States, Japan and in Europe. A large number of feeders are in service under voltages of 63, 69, 90, 110 and 138 kV, but some problems result, however, in the case of higher service voltages. Here, the authors give the test results which enabled a 220 kV feeder cable, with extruded polyethylene insulation to be produced. This cable is laid in a sub-station, close to Paris and has been in normal operation for seven months.