In the transmission of electricity both effectively and safely, cables play a vital role in electrical power transmission. Amongst these cables used are the medium voltage (MV) cables, which are particularly important. The MV cables, as per medium voltage cable manufacturers, are used in interconnecting the middle band between the HV and LV systems, and it is this that enables power transfer from industrial and commercial consumers to the substations. But what is a medium voltage cable, and how important is it to the existing electrical network?
This blog will explain, classify, use, and discuss the importance of medium voltage cables in detail by the medium voltage cable suppliers.
What is Medium Voltage Cable?
Medium voltage cable refers to an electric cable of 1 kV and 36 kV. Cables are utilized for the distribution and transmission of electricity for large-sized installations, including solar and wind power installations, industrial plants, utility substations, and wind power installations. MV cables contain a series of protective sheath layers, insulation, and conductors to make them secure, efficient, and sturdy.
The basic elements of a medium voltage cable include:
- Conductor: It is made of aluminium or copper and carries the electric current.
- Conductor Shield: It is a semi-conducting shield and helps in the distribution of voltage evenly and does not allow stress on the insulation.
- Insulation: It is mainly made of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) or ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and does not allow leakage to occur as well as protects it.
- Insulation Shield: A shield with conductive capability, the shield improves the performance and life of insulation.
- Metallic Shielding: Copper tape or wire, the shield prevents faults and good grounding.
- Outer Sheath: Mechanical protection from water, mechanical damage, chemical contamination, and the environment.
Medium Voltage Cables—Types
They have a lot of medium-voltage cables utilized based on the application and type, design, and make-up of the insulating material that they transmit. The most common among them are:
XLPE-Insulated Cables
- Most commonly used because of their high thermal resistance, improved electric performance, and durability.
- Applied in industrial use and power supply underground.
EPR-Insulated Cables:
- Provide additional flexibility against external forces like water and chemicals.
- Applied in offshore and sea use.
Armoured MV Cables:
- Use a metal armour sheath that withstands mechanical stress.
- Used in industry and high-risk installations where mechanical pressure is low.
Unarmored MV Cables
- Lightweight and used where mechanical protection is of least importance.
- Most widely used for indoor and ducted use.
Single-Core and Multi-Core MV Cables:
- Single-core cables are used in high-power distribution systems.
- Multi-core cables are used in low-power systems where more than one circuit is needed.
Applications of Medium Voltage Cables
Medium voltage cable also has big uses in industry and applications such as:
Utility Power Distribution:
- Deployed by electricity supply companies to distribute power from substations to residential areas and commercial businesses.
Industrial Plantation:
- Deployed in manufacturing plant operations, process companies, and heavy equipment plants.
Renewable Energy Installation:
- Deployed by solar energy plants, hydro energy power plant operations, and wind parks to deliver generated power to the network.
Infrastructure and Transportation
- MV cables depend on electricity supply to metro rails, railway systems, and airports.
Oil & Gas Industry:
- Applied in petrochemical plants, refineries, and offshore platforms to provide power economically and safely.
Mining Industry:
- Required for underground as well as surface mining operations where long-term and permanent cabling is employed.
Why Medium Voltage Cable Exists
Medium voltage cables are part of the electricity distribution system everywhere. They are required because:
Effective Transmission of Power
- MV cables enable economical transfer of power over a long distance with minimal power loss.
Reliability and Safety:
- The cables are capable of withstanding harsh climatic conditions to ensure a constant supply of power.
- Their multiple layers of shielding minimize the occurrence of electric accidents and breakdowns
Low-Cost Solution:
- Medium voltage cables are cost-effective compared to high voltage systems and are therefore most ideal for application in industries and business organizations.
Easy Installation
- Both armoured and unarmoured underground, overhead, or in conduit, it can be installed.
Sustainable Development in Renewable Energy:
- Increasing demands for the use of renewable sources of power make MV cables perform a vital role of providing renewable power to the power grid.
Scalability to Severe Operating Environments
- With types such as waterproof and flame-retardant cables, MV cables are used under harsh conditions such as offshore areas, deserts, and altitudes.
Medium voltage cable usage problems and challenges
Medium voltage cables are very handy, but there are a few things to be remembered while installing and using them:
Correct Selection:
- There has to be a correct selection of the type of MV cable with respect to voltage rating, ambient, and load-carrying capacity strictly.
Installation Difficulty:
- The installation of MV cables needs expert people, particularly in hazardous and underground situations.
Repair and Monitoring:
- Maintenance and regular checkups are necessary in order to prevent faults and attain long-term performance.
Cost of Superior Material:
- Superior insulation materials such as XLPE and EPR are the reason for the high installation cost of MV cables.
Future Trends in Medium Voltage Cable Technology
Medium voltage cable technology is evolving with future developments. Some of the future trends are:
Smart Cables with IoT Integration
- Sensors incorporated in MV cables can give real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance alerts.
Green and Non-Toxic Insulation Materials:
- New designs for green and non-toxic insulating materials to minimize environmental effects.
Increased Efficient Conductors:
- Superconducting cable design that dissipates zero energy as resistance.
Better Fire-Resistant Cables:
- Flame-resistant cable designs for installation in risk-prone areas.
Conclusion
Medium voltage cables form an essential component of the modern power grid, providing stable and efficient power supply. Its use in utilities, industries, and renewable projects indicates its significance in providing an eternal power supply. As smart technology and material evolve, future MV cables will be efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly. When there is an increasing demand for power globally, making investments in medium voltage cables of high quality will be important for having a lean and resilient power grid.