Diagnostics of a shipboard cable by measuring the dielectric loss tangent

Abstract

Until now there has not been created a system to assess the residual resource and to predict the probability of shipboard cable failure during its operation by non-destructive methods. Periodic high voltage tests are prescribed by various guidelines. As a result of such diagnostics, the damaged section is identified and the entire cable route is replaced. Obviously, this technology does not prevent an emergency situation, does not provide information about the residual resource, and finally, worsens the properties of an already aged cable exposed to high voltage. Insulation quality control on ships is of great importance and significance. The question arises about the suitability of one or another cable route for further work after long-term operation. That is why the issues of predicting the service life of a cable and assessing its current technical condition are relevant. Modern technologies make it possible to obtain materials with improved characteristics; however, currently rubber-insulated cables are the most common. In this work, diagnostics of the state of a shipboard cable is carried out by determining the dielectric loss tangent of its insulation. This method can be used along with traditional methods for technical audit of shipboard cables, such as testing the hardness of the cable sheath, infrared diagnostics of electrical equipment. In this case, the conclusion about the current state of the cable and the forecast of its service life, in the opinion of the authors, can only be made on the basis of the results of comprehensive diagnostics performed by several methods.