Insulation Health Monitoring of 11 kV XLPE Cable under the Influence of Thermal Stresses

Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cables are widely used in power systems due to their superior electro-mechanical strength. Many aging factors like moisture, voids, bending, gases, and thermal stresses are affecting the insulation of the cable. Thermal stress is one of the major factors that affects cable insulation and deteriorates its life span. This study investigates thermal stresses on the 11 kV, 3 phase, 3x120 sq mm (All Aluminum XLPE SWA), by conducting an insulation resistance (IR) test using C. A 6550 IR tester. The data has been analyzed through megohmmeter software and the remaining lifespan has been evaluated by the Arrhenius model strategy. The results are validated by comparing insulation resistance values under different thermal stress conditions. It was observed that the insulation life span of the test sample was reduced significantly due to thermal stresses. Managing thermal stress is imperative to enhance the longevity and performance of electrical infrastructure, which this research highlights.