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Use of Pfisterer KP-Test 5HL Live Line Testers & Indicators

Use of Pfisterer KP-Test 5HL Live Line Testers & Indicators

Voltage Detectors Distributed from Stock | Approved Supplier | UK & Export Sales

Pfisterer Voltage Detectors

Pfisterer KP-Test 5HL is a capacitive voltage detector—the universal Medium & High Voltage Detection & Live Line Tester (LLT) product range for nominal voltages from 110kV to 220kV. The voltage detector presents the operating voltage when brought into contact with the MV HV overhead lines and conductors.

The Pfisterer KP-Test 5HL voltage detector provides a high level of user-friendliness and user safety – KP-Test 5HL is designed and type-tested to Standard IEC 61243-1.

Other versions of the HV high voltage detector with deviating voltages, ranges of nominal voltages, frequencies, and languages are available on request.

KP-Test 5 range of instruments from Pfisterer can detect voltage level 1 to 420 kV AC.

Pfisterer KP-Test 5HL

KP-Test 5HL Live Line Indicators

The KP-Test 5HL is one of several certified live line indicators (LLI’s) that have been used to test 25kV conductors to ensure that they have been disconnected from the power source prior to connecting to earth or testing before touching. LLIs are safety devices on which human lives may depend. These should be handled with extreme caution and protected against damage.

To discharge any induced voltages, field equipment earthing, also known as portable earthing, may be necessary when employing voltage detectors to determine whether operating voltages are present on MV-HV power cables or overhead lines. This is because the equipment may be operating close to live conductors.

KP-Test 5HL is limited to use on the lowest conductor of the objects being tested, such as the bottom autotransformer feeder (ATF) or contact wire. Only those with a valid competency (authorised person or nominated person) and who have attended a familiarisation briefing should use it.

Benefits of using Voltage Detectors

Furthermore, voltage detectors are crucial instruments made to improve electrical safety in a range of settings. These tools are essential for averting mishaps, lowering the risk of casualties, and safeguarding infrastructure. An extended explanation of the features stated is provided below:

• Weather Resistance: They are designed to withstand various environmental conditions, including rain. This allows operators to use them in diverse weather conditions without compromising their functionality. This feature ensures that the detectors remain operational even when exposed to rain, providing continuous safety in outdoor settings.
• Personnel Safety: Voltage detectors significantly reduce the risk of serious injury to personnel working with electrical systems. Their ability to detect live voltage without physical contact ensures that operators can assess the presence of electrical energy safely. This minimizes the chances of electrical accidents, protecting personnel from electric shocks and other potential hazards associated with working in proximity to live electrical components.
• Infrastructure Protection: Voltage detectors play a vital role in safeguarding electrical infrastructure. By providing a means to detect live electrical components, they help prevent accidental damage to critical equipment and wiring. This protection extends the lifespan of electrical systems, reduces the frequency of repairs, and contributes to the overall reliability of the infrastructure.
• Quick Drying: After being exposed to rain or wet conditions, voltage detectors are designed to dry quickly once not in use. This feature is essential for maintaining the reliability of the device. The rapid drying capability ensures that the detector can be stored or reused promptly after exposure to moisture, minimizing downtime and allowing for efficient use in dynamic work environments.

THORNE & DERRICK

Thorne & Derrick stock and distribute PFISTERER CONNEX Connectors for medium / high voltage cable connection and termination to electrical systems up to 33kV – we provide competitive prices for PFISTERER CONNEX connectors used to terminate and connect polymeric insulated MV-HV cables into gas insulated switchgear and electrical equipment from extensive UK stocks.

Thorne & Derrick are national distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – servicing businesses involved in cabling, jointing, substation, earthing, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV. Supplying a complete range of power cable accessories to support the installation and maintenance of low/medium and high voltage cable systems:

• Slip-on Cable Terminations
• Cold-shrink Cable Terminations
• Heat-shrink Cable Terminations
• Cable Joints – Heat & Cold-shrink
• Separable Connectors (Euromold)
• Surge Arresters & Switchgear/Transformer Bushings

Voltage Detectors | Phase Comparators | Insulating Poles | Portable Earthing | LV MV HV

Basics of Cable Design and Engineering for Power Systems

Guest Article : Authored by Ryan Smith MSc MIET | Owner of EasyCableSizing.com

As an Electrical Engineer, I’ve always been fascinated by the “hows and whys” in the design and engineering of power cables. In this Article, I delve into the essential aspects from the core components of a power cable to the considerations in choosing the right materials.

Key highlights include:

• the critical roles of conductors, insulation, and sheathing
• a comparative look at copper and aluminium in cable applications
• insights into the evolving world of eco-friendly materials in cable design
• importance of understanding electrical properties like conductance, resistance, capacitance, and inductance

I also discuss the significance of standards like IEC 60287 and IEC 60502 in cable sizing, essential for anyone working with MV and HV power cables. Whether you’re a fellow engineer, a student, or just curious about the field, I believe there’s something valuable for everyone in this piece.

→ See original article here!

Table Of Contents

1.Introduction to Cable Engineering 

1.1 Definition and Scope

2. Cable Construction Basics

2.1 Core Components of a Power Cable

2.1.1 Conductors

2.1.2 Insulation

2.1.3 Sheathing and Jacketing

2.2 Types of Power Cables

2.2.1 Low Voltage Cables

2.2.2 Medium and High Voltage Cables

3 Material Selection in Cable Design 

3.1 Conductive Materials: Copper vs. Aluminium

3.2 Insulation Materials: XLPE, PVC, and Others

3.3 Advances in Eco-friendly Materials

4 Electrical Properties of Cables 

4.1 Conductance and Resistance

4.2 Capacitance and Inductance

4.3 Impedance Considerations

5 Cable Sizing and Capacity Considerations 

5.1 Calculating Current Carrying Capacity

5.2 Factors Influencing Cable Sizing

5.3 Utilizing Standards for Sizing

5.3.1 IEC 60287 Standard

5.3.2 IEC 60502 Standard

6 Key Takeaways 

Introduction to Cable Engineering

Definition and Scope

Cable engineering is a specialised domain focusing on the design, implementation, and optimisation of electrical power cables. This field encompasses a range of activities from material selection to performance testing, ensuring that cables meet the demands of modern electrical networks.

Cable construction Basics

Core components of A POWER CABLE

Underground power cables consist of a minimum of two components, a conductor and insulation, however these are usually accompanied by other elements, each playing a critical role in overall functionality:

cONDUCTORS

Conductors are the principal element of a power cables, responsible for transmitting electricity. They are typically made of materials like copper or aluminium, chosen for their excellent conductivity and durability. In other applications where conductors are required, other materials are often used, like gold, but these aren’t feasible for power applications due to their high cost.

iNSULATION

Insulation in power cables primarily provides segregation from a conductor and other conductive materials, whether they’re intended to be conductors or not, but also protects it from environmental factors.

Sheathing and Jacketing

Sheathing and jacketing provide an additional layer of protection to cables, safeguarding against physical damage and environmental factors. This layer is crucial for cable longevity and reliability.

Types of Power Cables

Power cables are categorised based on their voltage capacity:

Low voltage Cables

Low voltage cables are designed for applications with voltage requirements commonly up to 1000V. They are commonly used in residential and commercial settings for everyday electrical needs, and in industrial settings for smaller loads. Learn more about low voltage, heavy-duty industrial cables like the H07RN‑F rubber cable in our detailed selection guide.

Medium and High Voltage Cables

Medium and high voltage cables cater to more demanding applications, such as industrial plants, generation, and power transmission lines. They are able to handle higher voltages and are key in large-scale power distribution.

Material Selection in cable design

Conductive materials: Copper vs. aluminium

The two main materials used for conductors are copper and aluminium, due to their wide availability and relatively low cost.

• Copper, known for its superior conductivity and durability, is often preferred for certain applications, despite its higher cost.
• Aluminium, being lighter and more cost-effective, is a viable alternative, especially for large-scale power transmission.

Insulation Materials: XLPE, PVC, and Others

Different insulation materials like XLPE, PVC, and EPR play a crucial role in cable performance:

• XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene): Known for high temperature resistance and excellent electrical properties, ideal for high voltage applications.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Offers flexibility and durability, used in a wide range of cable types.
• EPR (Ethylene Propylene Rubber): Notable for dielectric strength, flexibility, thermal stability, suitable for high stress environments.
• Others: Includes materials like Teflon and Rubber, chosen for specific applications based on properties like fire resistance, low toxicity, or extreme environmental conditions.

Advances in Eco-friendly Materials

The cable industry is evolving towards eco-friendly materials like polypropylene (PP) to minimize environmental impact. PP stands out for its excellent insulating properties and recyclability, making it a promising material for next-generation power cables. However, its application in cable insulation still faces challenges, such as optimising its mechanical and electrical properties. This drive towards sustainable materials is redefining cable technology, balancing environmental considerations with performance requirements. For an in-depth understanding, read more about the potential of PP in power cable insulation in this research article.

Electrical properties of cables

Conductance and resistance

Understanding the conductance (G) and resistance ® of power cables is essential for evaluating their performance. These properties are inversely related, where G=1⁄R. Conductance represents a cable’s ability to allow electric current flow, while resistance quantifies the opposition to current flow. This affects cable efficiency, with lower resistance implying less energy loss as heat. Factors such as material type, cross-sectional area, and temperature influence these properties.

To learn more about the impact of resistance in power systems, consider reading this comprehensive guide on resistance and its effects.

Capacitance and Inductance

Capacitance © and inductance (L) are key factors in cable design, affecting how cables react to different electrical loads and frequencies. Capacitance in cables arises from the electric field between conductors, typically calculated using $C$=​​_εA/d,  where $\epsilon$ is the permittivity of the insulating material, $A$ the area of the conductor, and $d$ the distance between conductors. Inductance, on the other hand, is influenced by the magnetic field around the conductor and is given by L=​_{μN​2​​A/l​​}, where $\mu$ is the permeability of the material, $N$ the number of turns in the coil, $A$ the area, and $l$ the length of the coil.

Impedance Considerations

Impedance (Z) in cables, a combination of resistance, inductance, and capacitance, is crucial in AC power systems. It can be represented as Z=√​R​²​​+(X​_L​​−X​_C​​)​², where X​_L​​ is the inductive reactance and X​_C​​ the capacitive reactance. Impedance affects signal quality and power loss in cables, and its proper management is vital for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of electrical systems.

For an in-depth understanding of impedance and its impact on power systems, you might find this resource on impedance in AC circuits useful.

Cable sizing and capacity considerations

Calculating current carrying capacity

There are various methods used to calculate the current carrying capacity of cables (or ampacity), although the two methods predominantly referenced and used are IEC 60287 and Neher-McGrath. Both IEC 60287 and Neher-McGrath methods consider the heating of a conductor, and the cable’s and surrounding mediums’ ability to dissipate the heat until thermal equilibrium is met. An increase in current results in an increase in temperature, and the less thermal resistivity the cable and surrounding medium have, the more current can be carried.

Factors Influencing Cable Sizing

A principal consideration in cable sizing is the insulation selected for the conductor, as this determines the maximum temperature that can be reached before causing overheating and unnecessary stress or damage to the cable. Beyond that, it is primarily the surrounding medium and installation conditions that influence the thermal resistivity.

For cables installed underground, the soil itself has a thermal resistivity value to be considered. If sand, bentonite, or concrete are used, their own thermal resistivity values and geometry are incorporated into the formulas to determine the cable’s ampacity. If a cable is installed in a duct, the geometry, thermal resistivity of the duct itself, and the filling medium (such as air or bentonite) must also be considered.

Another major factor affecting the ampacity of cables is their proximity to other heat sources, such as other circuits (which are assumed to reach 90°C if insulated with XLPE), hot water pipes, steam pipes, etc. This mutual heating significantly impacts the ampacity calculations, especially in shared trenches or when cables are installed in ladders or trays.

Utilizing Standards for Sizing

When determining the appropriate size for power cables, adhering to established standards is crucial. These standards provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating various factors, ensuring that the chosen cable meets both current and future demands of electrical networks while adhering to safety and efficiency guidelines.

IEC 60287 Standard

The IEC 60287 standard is renowned for its systematic approach to cable sizing. It accounts for numerous factors, including conductor temperature, load pattern, cable laying conditions, and the thermal resistivity of the surrounding environment. This standard is particularly valued for its detailed thermal model, essential in accurately predicting cable behaviour under varying operational conditions.

EasyCableSizing.com plans to integrate this model into its platform, enhancing its cable sizing capabilities.

IEC 60502 Standard

IEC 60502 covers the requirements for the manufacture and testing of cables ranging from 1kV to 30kV. It includes tables of multipliers used against standard cable ampacity tables to determine adjusted ampacities based on specific conditions. These tables are derived from methodologies in IEC 60287, offering a practical guide for cable system development.

EasyCableSizing.com utilizes the IEC 60502 methodology in a user-friendly manner, helping users quickly and efficiently determine cable ampacities. This approach simplifies the complex process of cable sizing, making it accessible to a wider range of professionals and ensuring compliance with international standards. In Understanding the IEC 60502 Sizing System: A Double-Edged Sword this standard in particular is discussed in more detail.

Key Takeaways

• Cable Engineering’s Core Focus: Emphasizes the design, implementation, and optimization of electrical power cables, highlighting its crucial role in modern electrical networks.
• Components of Power Cables: Details the significance of conductors, insulation, and sheathing in cable construction, and their impact on cable functionality and durability.
• Conductive Material Choices: Discusses the use of copper and aluminium in power cables, outlining their advantages based on conductivity, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Insulation Material Varieties: Explores different insulation materials like XLPE, PVC, EPR, and their roles in high voltage applications, flexibility, and thermal stability.
• Eco-friendly Material Trends: Addresses the shift towards sustainable materials like polypropylene in the cable industry, balancing environmental considerations with performance requirements.
• Electrical Properties in Cables: Analyses essential properties such as conductance, resistance, capacitance, and inductance, crucial for cable efficiency and performance.
• Impedance in AC Power Systems: Highlights the importance of impedance, combining resistance, inductance, and capacitance, and its effect on signal quality and power loss.
• Current Carrying Capacity Methods: Compares IEC 60287 and Neher-McGrath methods for calculating ampacity, focusing on thermal equilibrium and thermal resistivity.
• Influences on Cable Sizing: Discusses how insulation, installation conditions, and surrounding medium impact cable sizing and thermal resistivity.
• Standards for Cable Sizing: Underlines the importance of adhering to standards like IEC 60287 and IEC 60502 for accurate and safe cable sizing, integrating these standards into EasyCableSizing.com for user-friendly access.

ib vogt – company

ib vogt is firmly committed to supporting the decarbonisation of the global electricity sector. The company focuses on the global development of turnkey PV plants and battery storage projects as well as the expansion of its IPP portfolio. In these areas, the company performs all integral services of the value chain from development, financing, and EPC, to O&M and asset management.

Headquartered in Berlin, Germany, ib vogt has established various offices across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Americas, and Africa as part of its presence in over 30 countries. The company works together with numerous partners globally, augmenting its in-house team of over 700 staff. ib vogt has built or has in construction more than 3.1 GW of PV power plants globally with a project pipeline of more than 45 GWp.

Thorne & Derrick distribute the most extensive range of MV HV Medium & High Voltage Cable Joints, Terminations & Connectors from manufacturers including 3M, Prysmian, Nexans Euromold, Elastimold, Pfisterer CONNEX & SEANEX.

Heat shrink, cold shrink, push-on and slip-over cable accessories enable the jointing, terminating and connection of 11kV-33kV and 66kV-132kV cables to oil, air or gas insulated switchgear, transformers, motors and overhead lines distributing electricity at MV HV.

T&D hold large stocks of 11kV 33kV 66kV Joints & Terminations suitable for XLPE, PILC and EPR cables, in both heat shrink and Cold Shrink technologies, to service the medium/high voltage power cable accessory requirements of UK and international customers.

So, You Want To Be An Electrician? | Your Complete Guide To The Electrical Industry By Gary Alder

Sparking An Interest & Powering Up Careers – Buy Now

So, You Want To Be An Electrician?

Your Complete Guide To The Electrical Industry 

By Gary Alder

Introducing “So, You Want to be an Electrician?” – a comprehensive guide for aspiring electricians. This illuminating book sheds light on the intricacies of the trade, empowering readers to master the art of electrical work. Get electrified with knowledge at our bookstore.

Buy Now – £9.99 Presale Ends 29th February 2024

Gary has spent the last 18 months putting together a book. It’s a guide to everything associated with the electrical industry for those outside of it and even those within it.

He likes to think of it as the information you should have gotten from the career advisor at school! The book will walk you through entry, qualifications, businesses, who’s who, and more!

⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️

Interested in becoming an electrician?

There’s never been a better time to become an electrician!

Buy Now – £9.99 Presale Ends 29th February 2024

CONTENTS

Below is an overview of all the chapters in the book:

Introduction

Chapter 1 – Apprenticeships
Employers
Attitude
All the Gear, No Idea
Colleges
End Point

Chapter 2 – Late Entrants
Are Short Courses Good?
Wages
The Job Market
The Skills Gap

Chapter 3 – Qualifying
The Moment After
Other Qualifications
Supervising Others

Chapter 4 – Inspection and Testing
Inspection and Testing Qualification
Test Kits
Codebreaking
Testing

Chapter 5 Pick a Sector
Domestic
Commercial
Industrial

Chapter 6 – The Regulations
BS 7671
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
More Regulations
The Gap

Chapter 7- The Business Mindset
The Dark Art of Quotations and Tenders
Risk
Profit
The Race to the Bottom
Agency Work
Directors and Shareholders
Programme

Chapter 8 – The Only Certainties in Life Are Death and Taxes
Limited Companies
Inside or Outside?

Chapter 9 – Competent Person Schemes
The Misconception
Qualified Supervisors

Chapter 10 – Other Memberships
Trade Associations
Joint Industry Board (JIB)
Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)
Trade Unions

Chapter 11 – Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
What’s Continuous Professional Development (CPD)?

Chapter 12 – Safety
Mental Health
Banter
Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMSS)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Electrical Safety First
Asbestos

Chapter 13 Challenges
Quality
Advertising
Community Engagement

Chapter 14 – The Future The Environment and Sustainability
Electric Vehicles (EVS)
The Prosumer
Smart Homes

Conclusion
Electricity Kills. Take It Seriously

Abbreviations
References
About the Author

Author – Gary Alder CEng FIET CMgr FCMI

Horizon Utility Supplies Introducing Cable Safety Improvements to UK DNO’s

Press Release | 26.1.2024

Thorne & Derrick, the Specialist Distributor of LV HV Cable Accessories, Tooling & Substation Equipment, are delighted to announce a Partnership Agreement with Horizon Utility Supplies Ltd, one of the largest suppliers of Tools & Equipment to the UK DNO’s.

“Our Partnership Agreement is focussed on the introduction of the Vicera APU2.0 Cable Jointers Stand to the UK DNO’s and National Grid. Initial interest and sales uptake has been outstanding with immediate acceptance by several utility clients of Horizon and field trials ongoing with others. The APU2.0 is now available from stock at Horizon – please do hesitate contact them for further information, site demonstration or sales enquiries.”

“Thorne & Derrick introduced the Vicera range into the UK early last year and the product has been adopted by many High Voltage Power Contractors, ICP’s, Cable & Accessory Manufacturers including Nexans, 3M, Hellenic, NKT, Tyco and Pfisterer. Working alongside the team at Horizon we look forward to improving cable safety and working practices within the UK DNO’s,” comments Chris Dodds (Thorne & Derrick Sales & Marketing Manager).

“Horizon Utility Supplies are excited to announce our partnership with Thorne & Derrick, for promoting the Vicera APU2.0 Cable Jointer Stand into the major utilities in the Electricity Supply Industry. This collaboration allows us to use the strengths of both companies to deliver workplace solutions to our customers and reflects our shared dedication to meet the evolving needs of our industry.”

“The Vicera range of products offers a great opportunity to kick-start our Partnership, fitting perfectly into our portfolio of products for the supply of equipment for the care and maintenance of the utility network within UK DNO’s. We are very much looking forward to working with our partners at Thorne & Derrick,” comments Richard Casey (Horizon Utility Supplies, Managing Director).

APU2.0 | Cable Stability & Support for MV HV Cable Jointing & Termination

The Vicera APU2.0 Jointers Stand for both field or training centre use provides safe and stable support of Low, Medium & High Voltage Cables – the cable stands are suitable for cable diameters 18-90mm with adjustable height for substation, joint bays or trench use.

The Cable Joint Stands feature step-less lateral and tilt adjustment and high strength clamps to prevent cable slippage or movement while jointing – secure and balanced cables when Jointers are undertaking highly skill-sensitive cable preparation prevents inadvertent damage to cables and future potential O&M reliability.

The cable support stands are rugged and durable for outdoor use in joint bays and trenches in all ground terrain conditions – this includes the support of 11kV/33kV/66kV cables to enable precise cable preparation by the Jointer prior to installation of joints, terminations or connectors on medium/high voltage power cables.

Stability & Security of Power Cables

Horizon Utility Suppliers were established in 1996 specialising in the distribution of equipment and PPE for working live on overhead power lines and underground cables – Horizon hold a reputation for engineering custom-solutions to provide problem solving and innovative products for Linesmen, Jointers, Substation Fitters & Utility Engineers.

Tel: +44 (0)1275 342700 | [email protected]

LV HV | Cable Jointing, Termination, Substation & Electrical Eqpt 600V to 66kV

The POWER Connected | Thorne & Derrick and PFISTERER Training Day

Earlier today at PFISTERER Sheffield the Thorne & Derrick Team benefitted incredibly from a Practical Training Day covering the benefits, specification and installation of CONNEX & SICON brands of MV Cable Accessories. The world-class standard of Cable Preparation Skills demonstrated by Dan & Jon using PENTA FRANCE (Alroc) & Ripley Tools assists our ability to provide technical support to customers.

Commercially, we are now further increasing both the levels and extending the lines of our PFISTERER stocks at Thorne & Derrick.

Thanks so much to Daniel Leech, Jon Reed, Mark Hanlon, Bethany Dodson, Tracey Stevenson, Cathy Longstone & Paul Tuckwood.

THORNE & DERRICK LV-HV Cable Accessories, Jointing, Tooling, Substation & Electrical Safety Eqpt | Approved PFISTERER UK Stockists.

PFISTERER with Thorne & Derrick

Ripley US02 Tool – The “Red Ripley”

Pfisterer Cable Training School for Jointers

Alroc CWB – The “Blue Tool”

Stripping MV Medium Voltage Cables 33kV

MV HV Cable Jointers Tools Sets

Supporting Cables Using Vicera Jointers Stands for MV HV Cables