The electrical performance of thermoplastic polymers when used as insulation in cables

With the technological development of the chemical synthesis industry, polymeric insulation, especially extruded material, gradually replaces traditional paper-insulated lead covered (PILC) cable to become a popular type of cable. Among potential candidates, XLPE has become a popular material because of its excellent electrical properties as well as dielectric properties. However, the material does not lend itself to ease of recycling. Recently, there is interest shown in using material that is easily recycled. Thermoplastic material seems an automatic contender but research is required to understand the electrical performance of such material. This paper will introduce the advantages of thermosetting material XLPE used as cable insulation and the categories of thermoplastics under different stresses. Thermal stress, voltage stress and environmental stress are the most common stresses considered for material performance. In addition, the degradation mechanisms and the relationship between different stresses were also considered in the paper.