Temperature-Dependent Charge Dynamics of Double Layer Interface in 500 kV HVDC XLPE Cable Factory Joint with Different Interfacial Roughness

Abstract

This article investigates the effect of different temperatures (30 °C, 50 °C, and 70 °C) on the interfacial and electrical insulation properties of 500 kV high voltage direct current (HVDC) cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cable factory joint having different roughness levels. The test samples with different interfacial roughness (#80, #400, #1000, #2000, and #0000) were prepared by surface polishing followed by an XLPE injection vulcanization process. At the interface, visible microporous defects were observed. The volume of pits on the sample surface and microporous defects at the interface can be reduced by a smooth interface. Moreover, the smoother interface facilitates space charge accumulation. The dc breakdown strength was nearly the same regardless roughness level at high temperatures. The results show that smooth interfaces help improving insulation properties of cable factory joints at low temperatures. However, the effect of interfacial roughness on insulating properties is weakened at elevated temperatures.