Research on influence of high-voltage cable un-homogeneities on process of short waves distribution

The partial discharges (PDs) inside of high-voltage cable insulation negatively influence cable service lifespan. Therefore timely detection and localization of affected areas with the weakened electric insulation is a vital question, in particular-according to measured values of PD parameters before they reach the dangerous stage of their development. Electrical cable is a circuit with the distributed parameters for current and voltage waves, initiated by local PD which changes their starting values with time. These changes can be taken as informative parameters for solving problems of localization of the defect and evaluation of dangers to cable's performance. Clear and detailed understanding of PD pulse distribution features in power cables is the basis for correctly solving cable diagnostics tasks with non-destructive approaches. This article uses the mathematical model of a power cable on the premises of cable equations. The model allows for modeling of wave processes in a non-uniform electric circuit (at sudden change of longitudinal parameters) in view of repeated reflection of PD waves from the ends and un-homogeneities of an electric cable. Results of mathematical modeling were compared to the data received from physical model of 110 kV XLPE electric cable. The cable physical model is realized with the help of the chained circuit consisting of 15 quad-poles. This document shows results of measurements and modeling of wave process caused by PD. Also, details of the wave process as dependent on time and frequency, and practical use of measurements of PD for cable insulation control, are discussed. Practical measurements show high degree of accuracy with regards to the data generated by theoretical model analysis.