Behaviour of extruded cables in water

In the field of MV extruded cables one of the most important topics is represented by the study of their behaviour in a wet environment. The need of a standardized water test has rapidly increased, in particular in Europe, originating from various countries a considerable number of proposals, which in many cases are quite unlike each other. An attempt is now made to find a common solution to this problem. The main aims of testing extruded cables in water are summarised. The research strategy developed for testing is also summarised. The work performed by Pirelli since 1988 in this field is briefly discussed and results of water ageing for EPR, XLPE, TRXLPE A and TRXLPE B are given. The test procedures adopted in 1991 by Pirelli are also discussed