Interpretation possibilities of diagnostic measurements on power cables and their compatibility

Monitoring of the electrical equipment condition by means of regular diagnostic measurements is an effective diagnostic tool for the prediction of service failures. It can be utilized to improve the asset management strategies and the maintenance planning of distribution network operators (DNOs) utilities and transmission network operators (TNOs). In this article several measurement possibilities for the purpose of medium voltage (MV) paper insulated lead covered (PILC) cables diagnostics will be presented and theoretically analyzed. Some of them, like measurements of dissipation factor (tan(δ)), partial discharges (PD) and return voltage, have been regularly performed within a long lasting ageing experiment. The conditions of this experimental investigation, selection of the cable samples, influence of the electrical and environmental parameters on the diagnostic statements and their correspondence will be shown and discussed.