Benefits to utilities from semiconducting linear low density polyethylene jackets on medium voltage

Jackets are now recognized to provide cost effective cable protection in service and protect cables being direct buried or pulled into ducts. They very significantly retard damaging moisture penetration into the cable core. They also protect cable neutrals from physical damage and moisture corrosion. Semiconducting jackets combine these benefits and provide grounding approximating that of bare concentric neutrals. Linear low density polyethylene [LLDPE] insulating jacket and LLDPE semiconducting jacket have similar physical properties and provide almost equal physical protection to cables. Insulated cables are incrementally damaged by overvoltages from system and lightning surges. This electrical damage is minimized when correctly sized and installed arresters are used in conjunction with semiconducting LLDPE jacket or bare concentric neutrals.