New insulating materials for HV DC cables

Abstract

New polymer insulating materials for HV DC cables were investigated. The DC breakdown characteristics and space charge characteristics of various types of polymers were evaluated using the sheet sample test. Model cable insulated with the most promising materials selected by the sheet sample test was then evaluated. The evaluation of the DC characteristics evaluation resulted in the selection of modified HDPE (high-density polyethylene) as the best HV DC cable insulation material. The outstanding DC breakdown characteristics of modified HDPE is tentatively attributed to the reduction of space charge due to the introduction of a modified group, in addition to the improvement in the intrinsic breakdown strength due to high crystallinity.<>