50Hz and 500Hz accelerated ageing test to rapidly assess the resistance of cables to the development of water trees
Utilities increasingly require evidence that cables are high-quality, reliable and safe through independent testing. To verify this, KEMA Labs conducts ageing tests on cable samples according to internationally recognised standards such as CENELEC HD 620 S2.
Why cable sensitivity testing?
XLPE-insulated power cables can be sensitive to water. Even a small quantity of water in the insulation material can lead to the growth of water trees over time. If these water trees grow sufficiently large, they may lead to a breakdown.
Accelerated testing
Based on our many years of research into water trees, we have developed a rapid, highly effective test. Applying a 500 Hz voltage to the cable while it is immersed in water simulates how the cable would age over several decades under normal operating conditions, allowing us to ascertain the quality of the insulation material in just four months.
Test reporting and location
After the ageing period, we conduct a breakdown test on the cable samples and supply a KEMA Report of Performance on the results. All tests are performed at our High-Voltage laboratories.
Selected applicable standards:
- CENELEC HD 605
- CENELEC HD 620
- NEN HD 620
- VDE Specification
- Other client specifications
KEMA Labs, a CESI Group Business Unit, is a global leader in third-party conformity assessment services, testing, inspection, and certification of electromechanical components. Our certificates and reports are internationally recognized by both manufacturers and purchasers.
KEMA Labs is a well-recognized conformity assessment body, accredited according to ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025, and ISO/IEC 17065 standards.
