The value of type testing cables and accessories

In this paper the results of 16 years of type testing MV, HV and EHV cables, accessories and cable systems are presented as general figures and subdivided by cable, the various types of accessories and by standard. This survey is an update of a previous publication and confirms the previously presented data. It shows that 20% to 50% of all type tests on accessories result in a change in design or stopping the type test. These results show the manufacturer the necessity of thoroughly testing new designs of cables and accessories. For the user of cable systems, these results indicate the value of purchasing type tested components or even systems. Also, these results may help manufacturers and utilities to define a series of relevant tests. Interfacial problems show the importance of testing the combination of cable and accessories that will be used. Individually type tested components are not a guarantee that the combination will pass the type test. In this view, it is advisable, especially for large cable projects, to type test the envisaged combination of cable and accessories before installation commences.