Development of prefabricated joint for 275-kV XLPE cable

Application of XLPE cables to extra-high-voltage (EHV) transmission lines is expanding due to their excellent electrical properties and ease of maintenance, and 275-kV long-distance underground transmission lines are reaching the stage of practical utility. Extrusion molded joints (EMJs) are widely used as the XLPE cable joint for EHV transmission lines. However, EMJs have presented problems because of their insulation. They are formed on site through extruding and molding of crosslinkable PE like the cable, and need a long time for installation on site and higher jointing technique. The prefabricated joints (PJs), which are already applied to 154-kV transmission line, are installed on site by using the parts manufactured and tested in the factory, they require a shorter installation environment. This report introduces the results obtained regarding the improvement of the electrical property, workability and the performance of PJs, designed for 275-kV XLPE cable. These joints are planned to be used for 275-kV transmission lines from 1995. >