In a power transmission and distribution network, cables and conductors are the most essential components. They form the power sector’s backbone, and any breakdown in the transmission network has the ability to interrupt power evacuation and end-user power delivery. As a result, timely, extensive and precise testing of cables and conductors is critical for ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. Moreover, in the current scenario of increasing power demand, it is imperative to keep these components in good condition through proper testing and measurement (T&M) techniques. Further, cables and conductors are crucial for the development of a new network as well as for strengthening the existing grid in areas with increasing power demand, but little or no space available to lay new lines. This necessitates the development of a robust network and adoption of adequate T&M solutions. The T&M of power equipment is essential for maintaining efficient and optimal operation of equipment and ensuring 24×7 power supply in the country. To achieve the desired level of performance and prevent failures, utilities need to follow proper T&M practices for cables and conductors.
Need for testing
Testing is done to check the conformity, quality and functionality of a component. Given the critical role of conductors, it is important that they are properly tested. Cables and conductors need to be tested and maintained at regular intervals, as the breakdown of any one of their components can trigger a grid collapse. A competent testing procedure improves the conductor’s durability and performance, while also preventing costly failure incidents in the future. These tests offer accurate information about conductor issues and quantify their severity, therefore reducing fault recurrence and increasing utility network uptime. Besides, proper T&M of cables and conductors facilitates cost reduction, since it is less expensive than repairs.
Conductor tests
One of the most commonly used routine testing techniques is type tests. A type test involves multiple different testing techniques such as partial discharge test, tan delta measurement, conductor resistance test, tensile test, hot deformation test, hot set test, shrinkage test and thermal stability test. For a type test, samples are to be taken continuously from the length of the conductor, which has to undergo various tests, such as visual examination. In a visual examination, the conductor is first examined physically for good workmanship and general surface finish. The conductor drums are required to be rewound in the presence of the inspecting officer, and the conductor is considered to be conforming to the requirements of the specifications and IS 398 (Part II)-1996 only after the inspector checks for scratches, joints, etc.
Measurement of the diameters of individual aluminium and steel wires is another form of type test. The diameters of individual aluminium and steel wires are checked to ensure that they conform to the required specifications. The measurement and checking of the lay ratio of each layer is yet another test to ensure that they conform to the requirements of this specification and IS 398 (Part II)-1996. Another test is the breaking load test on individual aluminium and galvanised steel wires. The breaking load of a specimen cut from each of the samples taken is determined by means of a suitable tensile testing machine. The load is applied gradually, and the rate of separation of the jaws of the testing machine should not be less than 25 mm per minute or greater than 100 mm per minute.
Wrapping tests can also be conducted on both aluminium and galvanised steel wires. For aluminium wires, one specimen cut from each aluminium wire sample is wrapped around a wire of its own diameter to form a close helix of eight turns. Six turns are then unwrapped and closely wrapped in the same direction as before. The wire should not break or show any cracks. In the case of galvanised steel wires, one specimen cut from each sample is taken and then wrapped around a mandrel of diameter equal to four times the wire diameter, to form a close helix of eight turns. Six turns should be then unwrapped and again closely wrapped in the same direction as before. The wire should not break. Yet another conductor test is the resistance test. This test can be conducted on aluminium wires only, conforming to the procedure as per IEC 889. The electrical resistance of one specimen of aluminium wire cut from each of the samples taken is measured at the ambient temperature. The measured resistance is then corrected to the value corresponding to 20 °C. Another test for conductors is the galvanising test. This test is conducted on galvanised steel wires only. The uniformity of the zinc coating and the weight of the coating are required to be in accordance with IS 4826-1979.
The surface condition test is another testing technique. For this test, a sample of the finished conductor for use in a 11/33 kV system, with a minimum length of 5 metres and compression-type dead-end clamps compressed on both ends in a manner that permits the conductor to take its normal straight line shape, is subjected to a tension of 50 per cent of the ultimate tensile strength of the conductor. The surface should not depart from its cylindrical shape, nor should strands move relative to each other, such that they get out of place or disturb the longitudinal smoothness of the conductor. The measured diameter at any place should not be less than the sum of the minimum specified diameters of the individual aluminium and steel strands. The utilities can also perform stress and strain tests. They are considered only for collecting creep data of the conductor from the manufacturer. A conductor sample of a minimum length of 10 metres, suitably compressed with dead-end clamps, is used.
According to the guidelines issued by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) for rationalised use of high performance conductors (HPCs), the constituent materials used in HPCs vary; some cores are common steel strands coated with zinc (galvanised), zinc alloy or aluminium while other conductors utilise relatively new materials such as fibre-reinforced aluminium composites or fibre-reinforced polymer composites. The required tests and test methods will differ depending on materials. At present, facilities for all types of tests are not available in India, and many of the type tests are carried out outside the country, adding to the cost of a project.
Moreover, the CEA recommends that power utilities should consider the installation of HPCs in existing and new power lines to augment their transmission capacity. Although considered to be relatively more expensive than conventional conductors by two to five times, HPCs could be considered economical if the other associated costs and loss reductions are accounted for.
Conclusion
Net, net, electrical system errors are inescapable; but, with good T&M, any fault in power equipment may be corrected before it becomes a real problem. Going forward, this is expected to go a long way in maintaining a reliable and robust power network, and ensuring 24×7 quality power supply in the country.