Analysis of Current Carrying Capacity and Temperature Field of Power Cables under Different Laying Modes

Abstract

With the continuous increase of electric power load, the capacity and peak overload can no longer meet the demand of power supply well. The current carrying capacity of the cable should be increased as much as possible to solve the above problems. The current carrying capacity of power cables is difficult to determine because it is affected by many factors such as the laying method, operating conditions, and surrounding environment. Therefore, accurately calculating the current carrying capacity of power cables under complex conditions has great significance for ensuring the cables' safety and economy. Power cables are the main medium for urban power transmission. Accurately calculating the current carrying capacity and planning the laying method of power cables are of great significance for reliable power supply. Because cables are always laid by complicated methods and harsh environments, which mean that various factors can affect the ampacity and temperature field distribution, it is difficult to entirely rely on the current IEC standard for calculations. Based both on the IEC standard and heat transfer principles, this paper establishes models for buried cables in different soils and laying methods. The finite element algorithm is used to analyze the current carrying capacity and temperature field distribution of power cables.