Assessing the feasibility of insulation materials for UHVDC cable systems

This paper discusses challenges to the adoption of long distance HV and UHVDC power transmission cables of 800 kV and higher. Specifically, this paper first discusses current HVDC cable technologies and then presents a procedure to find out what the key parameters are determining the feasibility of a polymeric cable system for ultra-high voltage direct current (UHVDC) applications. An electrical-statistical design process is combined with a thermal design process to determine whether the cable ratings can be achieved in design having long service design. Based on the results of the simulations, material performance gaps are identified and suggestions are made for prioritizing materials research and development.