Transient Thermal Modelling of HV XLPE Power Cables: matrix approach and experimental validation

HV cables have a significant role in linking power sources and loads in electrical grids. The focus of this paper is on studying the thermal processes acting in a HV XLPE power cable, by using a matrix approach and taking into account the whole cable system, with all its layers. The work defines an approach, which, in presence of uncertainty, can be used to characterize the heat transfers between the cable layers. The approach is used in this paper to examine the loading transient phase over an interval of 60 minutes. A sensitivity analysis involving the parameters of each cable layer is carried out. The model is validated by using the results of a laboratory test. The optimal parameter fitting is also carried out.