Condition based maintenance strategy tools for power calbe systems

Predictive maintenance programs are beneficial for improving the reliability of medium voltage cable systems. The condition of medium voltage electrical power cable systems must be established for the program to be successful. Assessing the condition of the cable system while it is energized and employing cable rehabilitation or replacement program based on the results will enable the asset manager to realize a reliable system operating in power and industrial companies. The cable treatment technology is based on a well proven silicone injection process, which is successfully employed to extend the life of aged extruded cable systems. The Cable assessment technology offers a cost-effective, reliable tool to facilitate a planned maintenance program as it provides an excellent indication on the condition of cables of all types. The details of the totally passive cable diagnostic technique that analyzes radio frequency (RF) pulses emitted by the cable system while it is energized and in service are presented. This paper describes the novel technologies used in condition assessment and life extension of medium voltage cables operating in electric power distribution and the results obtained from a few case studies.