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Spring 2003 - Presentations

Check this page periodically to learn about the Presentations scheduled for the Spring meeting.

• Special Activities
• Mini-Expo Vendors

• Opening Session
• Subcommittee A
• Subcommittee B
• Subcommittee C
• Subcommittee D
• Transnational Luncheon
• Educational Program

Please Note: This is a only a listing of the presentations and
UNLESS NOTED, DOES NOT IMPLY THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY WILL BE PRESENTED.

• Special Activities

  • A14D officers Dan Ward and Ram Ramachandran have posted the latest draft of ICEA Standard S-108-720, Extruded Insulation Power Cable Rated Above 46 Through 230 kV. This draft will be the subject of A14 discussions during the Spring 2003 meeting to be held Tuesday afternoon, April 29th. The draft is available on the ICC Download site. Just click on the menu pick to your left. Dan and Ram need your comments before the meeting.

  • WG B16W has posted a revision to Annex B to IEEE 386, Standard for Separable Connectors on the ICC Download site (see the link in the menu panel to the left). Please provide comments to Chairman Frank Stepniak at frank_stepniak@tnb.com  (updated 4/16/2003)

  • WG C17 Chairman Bill Larzelere has posted draft 1 of IEEE 400-1, Guide for Field-Testing of Laminated Dielectric, Shielded Power Cable Systems Rated 5kV and Above with High Direct Current Voltage on the ICC Download site (see the link in the menu panel to the left). Please provide comments to at Bill at hipeaks@adelphia.net

  • WG C18 has posted draft 8 of IEEE 400-2, Guide for Field Testing of Shielded Power Cable Systems Using Very Low Frequency (VLF) on the ICC Download site (see the link in the menu panel to the left). Send comments to j.densley@ieee.org (updated 4/21/2003)

  • WG C19 Chairman, Matt Mashikian, has posted draft 5 of IEEE P400.3, the IEEE Guide for Partial Discharge Testing of Power Cable Systems in a Field Environment on the Download site. Send your comments to Dr. Mashikian at MASHIKIAN@aol.com  

  • The Cable Systems Subcommittee (C) announces the formation of an Adhoc Discussion Group on Cable Failure and Replacement Strategies. The group will kickoff at the ICC 2003 Spring meeting. Tim Stankiewicz, Progress Energy, will act as chairman of the group. This group, which is tentatively scheduled to meet on Tuesday, April 29, will address the issue of aging of underground systems on a national level and what steps do utilities need to take to combat the failing infrastructure. The Task Force will address the following:

    • Processes and Strategies for replacement (open trenching, directional drilling)
    • Cable replacement prioritization model
    • Cable injection/rejuvenation practices
    • Types of cable testing and the successes and short comings (Partial Discharge, Tan Delta, Dielectric Spectroscopy, Time Domain Reflectometry, etc…)
    • Concentric neutral deterioration and testing
    • Criteria for replacement and/or injection/rejuvenation of cable both Bulk Feeder and URD
    • Reliability issues concerning cable failures
    • Tracking replacement and issues with abandoned cable
    • Direct buried verses conduit systems (CIC or rigid duct)
    • Cable construction practices jacketed or unjacketed
    • New construction practices for feeder and subdivision.
    • Address best practices for all of the above.
    • Invite vendors to discuss all of the above issues
• Mini-Expo Vendors 

  G & W Electric http://www.gwelec.com/index.html

  G&W Electric is a global supplier of distribution and transmission voltage power system products and solutions. Contact Randy Rowan at rrowan@gwelec.com for further information.

  HV Technologies Inc http://www.hvtechnologies.com/  

  Makers of partial discharge and dissipation factor test equipment for factory or on-site testing and diagnosis of power cables and high voltage field test systems for cable installation and diagnostic testing. Presentation will also include systems for partial discharge testing of cables and high voltage variable frequency resonant test systems for field testing. Contact John Herron at herron@hvtechnologies.com for further information.

  IMCORP http://www.imcorptech.com/

  "A provider of medium and high voltage cable diagnostic equipment and testing services. With a proven track record over many thousands of miles of cable, IMCORP’s marriage of high technology and field verified methodology, combined with condition based maintenance, has demonstrated tremendous capital expenditure savings while improving overall cable system reliability". Contact Ben Lanz at ben.lanz@imcorptech.com for further information

  Southwire http://www.southwire.com/

  With a rich heritage covering more than half a century, Southwire is the leading building wire and utility cable manufacturer in the United States. Southwire also is the leading copper and aluminum rod producer in the world. At the Mini-Expo we will be introducing our solution for 600V failures with our new self-healing cable SureSeal*. We will also have information on our environmentally-friendly packaging in Southwire's Enviro-Coils*. Contact Norman Adkins at norman_adkins@southwire.com for further.

  USi http://www.usi-power.com/

  For more info contact USi at info@usi-power.com

• Opening Session - April 28, 2003, 8:00 - 9:00
  • Welcome - Ken Bow
  • Introduction of Speaker - Ken Bow
    • John Procario of Cinergy will be our speaker for the Spring 03 meeting. He is presently Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Regulated Businesses Business Unit and is responsible for the operations and customer service activities related to the Cinergy gas and electric transmission and distribution systems. John received his BS degree in electrical engineering and an MS degree in electric power engineering from The Ohio State University in 1973 and 1974. He has held various engineering, management, and executive positions with the Cincinnati Gas & Electric Company from 1974 to 1994 and Cinergy Corp. from 1994 to the present. John also has taught in the College of Engineering at the University of Cincinnati since 1975 starting as a Lecturer and promoting to Adjunct Professor. Mr. Procario has served in various industry organizations including the North American Electric Reliability Council (NERC), the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and the North American Energy Standards Board (NAESB).
  • Awards - Lauri Hiivala
  • Eulogies - Ken Bow/Steven Kozak
  • Closing - Announcements
• Subcommittee A - Cable Construction and Design, April 29, 2003, 8:00 – 12:15
  • 8:00 - 8:20 - Subcommittee Business - Serge Pélissou, Hydro-Québec (IREQ) - Chair John Smith III, General Cable – Vice-Chair
  • 8:20 - 8:50 – Enhanced Insulation Cleanliness for Improved Cable Performance
    Jan Ove Bostrom, Borealis Compounds LLC Abstract: Cleanliness of cable insulation is the critical quality criteria for short and long term performance of both Extra High (EHV), High (HV) and Medium Voltage (MV) cables. EHV and HV cables typically have a dry construction and the main concern is electrical treeing from contaminants generating a high local stress enhancement. MV cables are, contrary to the EHV and HV cables, exposed to water and moisture in the insulation can result in water treeing. Thus it is obvious, that by reducing the number of contaminants in the insulation, an improved performance would be expected. This presentation will cover requirement on insulation cleanliness and recent achievements.
  • 8:50 – 9:20 – Factors Affecting Polyethylene Jacket Performance
    Dr. Yimsan Gau, The Dow Chemical Company
    Abstract: Polyethylene has been extensively used in jacketing applications for wire & cable. In power cable, the benefit of polyethylene jacket on extending cable life has been well known. Field data show that a properly selected polyethylene jacket is critical and cost effective for long life power cable. The paper reviews the important properties affecting the performance of polyethylene jacket in poser cable applications. One critical property, weathering resistance with the associated requirements to achieve superior resistance to UV radiation is discussed. Weathering data on black and colored jackets are also presented.
  • 9:20 – 9:50 – Installation of a 115kV EPR Double Circuit for the Town of Norwood, MA
    Robert Fleming, Henry Soleski, The Kerite Company
    Abstract: In 2002 Kerite Cable Services installed 76,000 feet of 115kV EPR cable for The Town of Norwood, MA. The project called for 66 lengths of cable, 60 slip-on-splices, 6 outdoor porcelain terminations and 6 GIS terminations. We cover the bid process, the alternatives explored, the selection/evaluation process and the actual installation of the cable, splices, terminations and final testing.
  • 9:50:10:15 – Break
  • The following two presentations are a contribution from Discussion Group A3D, Performance of Extruded Dielectrics, John Densley, Arborlec Solutions – Chair, Robert Keefe, EPRI – Vice-Chair
    • 10:15 – 10:45 – Space Charge – Facts and Myth
      Steven Boggs, EIRC, University of Connecticut
      Abstract: The measurement of space charge in dielectrics has become a “growth industry” in the academic community, largely because measurements methods have become available. The fact that accurate, even meaningful, space charge measurement remains problematic is not very troubling to academics who can push a button 5 times and have the data for a new paper, however meaningless. Investigators have imbued space charge or the change of space charge with applied voltage with all sorts of “magical” meanings, such as being indicative of the onset of aging. In fact, space charge is a phenomenon which has always been with us and which can be computed reliably for many situations. The most common cause of space charge is inhomogeneous conductivity, and the resulting space charge is proportional to current density which naturally increases with applied field. This presentation will take a short but systematic look at space charge from a common sense perspective and attempt to explain what all the fuss is about.
    • 10:45 – 11:15 – Clay 101
      John Hogan, Burgess Pigment Co.
      Abstract: Throughout the years, Kaolin (clay) has been used in the Wire and Cable Industry as a filler, reinforcing agent and as an electrical adjunct to the polymeric element in the compound. We will trace this evolution through to the present functional additive used in various electrical insulating materials.
  • 11:15 – 12:15 - New Ideas for Subcommittee A
    Serge Pélissou, John Smith III
    Abstract: Sub A is looking for ideas for possible new areas of presentation, discussion and group activity. We will revisit the ideas presented in Dearborn, Spring 2001, update them, and also try to stimulate suggestions for new ones. Everyone is welcome to bring his or her thoughts!
  • Meeting Adjourn
• Subcommittee B - Accessories 
  • Bob Gear, USi, Chair/Tom Champion, NEETRAC, Vice Chair
  • Revision to IEEE Std 386, Standard for Separable Insulated Connector Systems for Power Distribution Systems Above 600V
    Frank Stepniak, Thomas & Betts/Elastimold
    Abstract: The IEEE 386 standard on “Separable Insulated Connector Systems for Power Distribution Systems Above 600V” has been in the process of revision. The working group has now finalized those revisions and will be presenting the proposed changes for review by the Accessories Subcommittee before sending the document out for balloting. Revisions are substantial, covering
    • new definitions
    • an overload rating for deadbreak devices
    • optional color coding by voltage class
    • clarification of the definition of interchangeability in the switching test procedure
    • introduction of a torque withstand requirement for bushing well studs
    • introduction of a thermal cycle test for non-elastomeric components
    • inclusion of stacking dimensions for deadbreak devices
    • expansion of the switching test procedure to include use of mechanical operators and option for parallel or series switching
    • addition of a chart showing the design test sequence
    • addition of two appendices introducing trial test procedures for
      • interface lubricant requirements
      • design test procedure for qualification of new products intended to address partial vacuum induced flashover failures

• Subcommittee C - Cable Systems
  • 2:00 - 2:10 - Subcommittee Business - John Cooper, PDC, Chair/Nagu Srinivas, DTE, Vice Chair
  • 2:10 - 2:35 - Power Underground Cables Online Diagnosis Using High Sensibility Techniques
    Carlos Gustavo Azcárraga Ramos, Instituto de Investigaciones Eléctricas
    Abstract: This presentation will summarize the results of the evaluation performed on 70 paper impregnated lead cover cables circuits. The measurements were performed on-line during normal operation of cables, allowing detection of damaged joints and terminals along with cable degradation assessment. The distributed PD measurement presented here, uses ultra wide band (UWB) measuring techniques for proper PD detection and noise reduction. UWB PD detection is based on a very high measuring frequency range and on the use of selective sensors that cut out lower frequency interference, allowing acceptable signal to noise ratio. These sensors were matched to conventional detectors to produce traditional pattern diagrams for ease analysis. On the operating frequency range of the sensors, PD electromagnetic field finds lower impedance while propagating in the air rather than being conducted along cable screen, allowing PD signal pick up during normal cable operation. The air propagation forces a rapid decay in PD signal magnitude that is estimated in the 40 m range with the system described here. This short reach of UWB signals can be compensated by performing several measurements along the cable length. Those multiple measurements are designated here as distributed PD measurements. The partial discharge electromagnetic radiation level is qualitatively classified in order to establish cable maintenance and replacement criteria. Advanced UWB facts like wavelength influence in the sensor response and calibration procedure are also showed. Along with the distributed PD measurement, thermometry and load analysis results of the tested circuits are presented here to improve the diagnosis.
  • 2:35 - 2:50 - Partial Discharge Testing: Review of Technology Improvements and Results
    Ben Lanz, IMCORP
    Abstract: During the past few years significant improvements have been introduced in the field testing of distribution and transmission cables. These include methods of data acquisition, processing, and the display of important partial discharge characteristics. This will be briefly reviewed together with some statistical results obtained on significantly large projects.
  • 2:50 - 3:15 - Toluca-Hollywood Line 3, 230-kV, XLPE Project Commissioning Test
    Hassan Motallebi, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power
    Abstract: This presentation discusses commissioning tests that were performed on a 230 kV XLPE underground transmission line in Los Angeles. The commissioning tests performed were AC voltage test at 1.4 UL-N, Partial discharge test, and DTs (Distributed Temperature Measurements) using fiber optics embedded under the cable sheath. FKH from Switzerland performed the AC voltage test. JPS (Sumitomo), KEMA, IMCORP, DTE, and HV Technologies performed the partial discharge tests, each separately using their own methods. IMCORP and HV Technologies took end-to-end PD measurements at terminations to check for PD along the cable length. JPS, KEMA, and DTE took localized PD measurements at individual joints and terminations. Power Delivery Consultants took DTs measurements at 0% and 50% load. Results obtained by each testing service provider were within acceptable limits. The line was successfully commissioned in May 2002.
  • 3:15 - 3:30 - Break
  • 3:30 - 3:50 - Use of Datamining for Condition Assessment of Distribution Power Cables
    Edward Gulski, Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands
    Abstract: With regard to distribution power cables the technical information needed for asset management (AM) decision support is not only dependant on diagnostics applied to the cable section but it is also dependent on several asset-related effects such as network operation and cable construction. The cable network is build up from different types of components, with use different construction and insulation materials. Therefore, due to different service conditions the components may age in different ways. In order to achieve a good diagnostic end result, it is necessary to have a number of information sources, concerning the test object, available to support the operator in making correct interpretations of the measured diagnostic signals e.g. PD phenomena. Furthermore, the diagnostic information has to be combined with the knowledge rules to assess the asset condition. Finally this information can be used to support the AM decision processes. In this paper based on practical experiences condition assessment aspects will be discussed on the basis of advanced partial discharge diagnosis and datamining application of distribution power cables.
  • 3:50 - 4:10 - An Overview of New Submarine Cables Technologies
    Hideo Tanaka, Viscas Corporation
    Abstract: The requirement for submarine cables is increasing year by year, and they are used for a wider range of applications than in the past. This presentation will cover the following topics for present submarine cable installations and new technologies that are under development.
    • Installation
    • Cable protection
    • Environmental protection
    • Reliability of cable systems
    • Other design issues
  • 4:10 - 4:30 - Insuring Adequate Spacing Between Underground Distribution Conductors in Conduit and Gas Lines
    Thomas J. Parker, NEETRAC
    Abstract: This presentation presents an assessment of spacing requirements between underground distribution cables and gas lines. The effects of faults occurring on secondary cables in plastic conduit energized at 240 volts were evaluated under simulated field conditions. Secondary cables were intentionally faulted inside polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) conduit. The test setup represented a typical, residential single-phase circuit consisting of a padmount transformer with a length of secondary cable. The fault characteristics (voltage and current waveforms) and temperatures on the exterior of the conduit near the fault were recorded. The condition of the conduit after the fault was also assessed.
• Subcommittee D - Station, Control and Utilization Cables - Monday 9:15 - Noon
  • 9:15 - 9:35 - Subcommittee Business - Kent W. Brown, TVA, Chair/John Merando, Bechtel, Vice Chair
  • 9:35 - 9:55 - Circuit Integrity Cables
    James Conrad, Rockbestos-Surprenant
    Abstract: With the constant threat of terrorist attacks and the introduction of the President Bush proposed First Responder program, there is an increasing need for Circuit Integrity Cable. These cables will be required to perform their intended function while exposed to fires reaching temperatures of nearly 1900F. Rockbestos has introduced a new technology called “Ceramification”. With this new technology, we are able to offer both power and control cables answering the industries need for Circuit Integrity Cables.  The presentation will discuss these cables and how they are tested in accordance with UL 2196 “Tests for Fire Resistive Cables”.
  • 9:55 - 10:15 - Water Blocking Technologies in Fiber Optic Cables
    Rob Gilberti, Draka Comteq USA, Inc.
    Abstract: Historically, outside plant optical fiber cables have employed petroleum based filling compounds and gels to provide Waterblocking characteristics. The focus of this presentation is the recent development, use and advantages of dry blocking materials such as tapes, yarns, and powders. Test procedures, industry standards, and processing techniques are also presented.
  • 10:15 - 10:30 - Break
  • 10:30 - 10:50 - Category Cables
    Rob Gilberti, Draka Comteq USA, Inc.
    Abstract: Recently, TIA has published TIA/EIA-568b.2-1, the Category 6 standard providing end users with additional cabling choices for high speed communications systems in the network. This presentation will discuss the relevant advantages and development for Category cables used in premises high speed communications systems.
  • 10:50 - 11:10 - Nuclear Qualification of Safety Cables
    K. Anandakumar, Senior Scientist, Kinectrics Inc., Toronto, Canada
    Abstract: Control, instrumentation, and power cables used for safety related cables used in a major utilities’ older nuclear stations were not qualified at the time of construction. Also, no records existed about the cable types used in various applications. Kinectrics was contracted to develop non-destructive procedures to identify the cable types used in the field and to determine whether the cables would function satisfactorily during the station’s designed life.

    After analyzing 350 field and in stock cable samples through various physical and chemical techniques a database was created representing the range of cable insulation types used in the nuclear power plants. Given the hundreds of million meters of cables purchased, the number of possible cable types was reduced to 25. A non-destructive procedure based on NIR spectroscopy was developed to verify the cables in the field. In parallel cable qualification testing was initiated. Cable testing involved:

    • Assessing the condition of as received cables
    • Development of activation energies
    • Simulation of low dose rate field environments
    • Thermal aging
    • Radiation exposures
    • Exposure to LOCA/MSLB steam environment while monitoring the electrical performance.

    From the outcome of the test program, all installed cables were assessed. Some cables inside the containment were replaced due to unacceptable performance.

  • 11:10 - 11:30 - California Proposition 65 and Its Impact on Wire and Cable
    Bill Wilkens, Anixter
    Abstract: As the result of a recent legal settlement between NEMA and a California consumer action group, beginning in September 2003 the state of California will require cable suppliers to include hazard warning labels with certain products sold in the state. Cable products that contain significant amounts of lead and that are "frequently handled" by consumers are subject to the requirement. This presentation will provide a summary of the legal settlement, the cable types that are affected and the penalties for failing to comply.
  • 11:30 - 11:50 - Cable Fire at TVA's Watts Bar Hydro Station
    Kent W. Brown, TVA
    Abstract: In September of 2002, a fire at TVA's Watts Bar Hydro Station resulted in the loss of 175 MW of generation and extensive damage to the plant. The presentation will discuss the investigation which led to the discovery that the event began with a faulted cable, the lessons learned and the scope of the recovery effort.
• Transnational Luncheon - Tuesday April 29, 12:30 pm
  • Welcome and Introduction, Harry Orton, OCEI
  • Calendar of International Events, Willem Boone, KEMA
  • CIGRE Update, Willem Boone, KEMA.
  • Jicable 2003 Update, Nigel Hampton, Borealis
  • Installation of a 170 kV Cable Connection in the Netherlands with a 2000 sq. mm Conductor, by Henk Geene, Pirelli.
  • Development of 500 kV XLPE Prefabricated Joint, by Teruaki Kawaguchi, Sumitomo USA.
  • Field Application of Water Diagnosis Technologies Combined with Non-destructive High Voltage Withstand Test for 66 kV XLPE Cable, by Hideo Tanaka, VISCAS Corporation.
  • New 400 kV Underground Cable System Project in Jutland (Denmark), by Pierre Argaut, Sagem.
  • Completion of 132 kV XLPE Cable Line with DTS System in Dubai, by Teruaki Kawaguchi. (Time permitting)

     

• Educational Program - An Overview of PILC Cables.

Having focused on extruded dielectric cables for several years, we are pleased to announce “An Overview of PILC Cables” as the topic for the spring 2003 ICC Educational Program and have a distinguished group of presenters. The following quote from Stan V. Heyer, PECO Energy aptly addresses the amazing longevity of these cables:

“The first transmission line at Philadelphia Electric Company was a 2400 volt line from a remote generation site all of two miles from downtown Philadelphia. In 1899, in what at that time was perceived to be a risky trial, Philadelphia Electric Co. built their first 2400 volt transmission line to prove that generation did not have to be close to the load. We were recently doing some work on a circuit near that old generating site and found that around 10 stretches of the original 1899 cable are still in service. There have been some circuit rearrangements in the area and we also found PILC cable from 1900 and 1904. The engineers who worried about the viability of their design in 1899 would be amazed to know that their cable is still in service!”

William Thue, consultant will introduce the topic with a historical perspective. Joe Zimnoch, consultant will cover PILC Cable Design and Manufacture. Stan V. Heyer, PECO Energy will offer a utility perspective on PILC cable operating experience and practices. PILC diagnostic tests will be covered by Willem Boone MSc, KEMA and Carlos Katz, CTL who will also cover condition assessment. In addition, Vern Buchholz, Powertec Laboratories will summarize some interesting findings of a recently completed EPRI sponsored project on condition assessment of PILC cables. Finally, Brent Runyon, Pirelli Power Cables & Systems will talk about the future of this important cable design. Attendees will receive 4 PD hours. For additional details on the presentations please refer to the abstracts and biographies listed below and we look forward to seeing you at the spring ICC:

Historical Review of PILC Cables, William A. Thue, Consultant.
Abstract: later

PILC Cable Design and Manufacture, Joe Zimnoch, Consultant.
Abstract:

1. Exactly what is a PILC cable?
2. Basic cable designs.
3. Function and properties of each cable component.
4. Cable manufacturing steps.
5. Past and current AEIC industry specifications.
6. Improvements over the last 100 years.
7. Notable features and characteristics of PILC cables.

Cable Operating Experience & Practices, Stan Heyer, PECO Energy.
Abstract: Review experience with PILC cables, what are pro and cons, review maintenance/repair issues/practices, why are utilities considering/moving to PILC replacement. Regarding the pros and cons of PILC photos of various PILC splices will be shown to illustrate the wide range of taps that can be made with PILC. This is a significant advantage of PILC cable.

Reliability Improvement of PILC Cable Circuits by CBM Programs, Willem Boone MSc, KEMA.
Abstract: PILC is a so called "classical" type of cable, reputable but usually relatively old. Because of high reputation, diagnostic testing of old cable makes sense: old cable is not necessarily bad cable. Usually by replacing only a few accessories or parts of cable the quality of the cable circuit can be restored. If utilities want to improve reliability of PILC cable circuits, Diagnostic Testing Induced Condition Based Maintenance has been proven to be effective.

In this presentation attention will be paid to the Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) - strategy for PILC and in particular the available diagnostic methods to accomplish CBM intentions. The most important method, Partial Discharge Detection (PDD), will be dealt with in more detail.

This presentation will also consider the most essential and probably the most difficult part of PILC PD testing: the conversion of measured information into practical recommendations: "The interpretation".

Finally two case studies will be discussed, showing that the CBM-approach works out successfully in the daily practice of utilities.

Condition Assessment of PILC Cables, Carlos Katz, Cable Technology Laboratories
Abstract: Cable Technology Laboratories (CTL) has developed a series of tests to assess the condition of PILC cable. These tests include power factor versus voltage stress and versus temperature, plus a high voltage time test to failure. Using this approach, it has been feasible to assess the relatively condition of PILC cables. This test is destructive in nature.

Using a similar technique, cables categorized in poor condition by partial discharge diagnostics, have been tested in the laboratory. The results do not confirm the poor condition of the field assessed cables.
Additional evaluations are performed by dissecting PILC cables and studying the mode and pattern of cable insulation degradation and failure.

EPRI Project on Assessment of PILC Cable Condition from Electrical, Chemical and Metallurgical Tests, Vern L. Buchholz, P.Eng., Powertech Labs Inc.
Abstract: An EPRI project on condition assessment of PILC cable was recently completed by Powertech Labs. Sixteen lengths of field-aged PILC cable were collected from utilities across North America. Two of these lengths were removed from an in-service PILC feeder circuit on which diagnostic tests had been performed. Three different categories of diagnostic tests were performed on the field-aged PILC cable samples. These included chemical and dielectric tests on paper tape and on oil samples, electrical diagnostic tests in the lab and on-site on full-sized field aged cable lengths, ac breakdown and water-ingress tests on the same field aged cables, and metallurgical tests for the evaluation of lead sheath aging. A short presentation will describe the objectives and tests methods.

Getting the Lead Out: Options for PILC Replacement, Brent Runyon, Pirelli Power Cables & Systems.
Abstract: The long history of PILC cables may be coming to a close. More and more utilities are seeking a viable alternative to this cable design, due primarily to two reasons:

1. difficulty in installing and maintaining this type of cable and
2. pressure from environmental groups.

This presentation will deal with the future of PILC replacement and the pros and cons of current alternatives.

Biographical Sketches - Educational Program Presenters 

William A. Thue, Consultant.

William A. Thue worked for Florida Power & Light Co. from 1946 to 1984 in the engineering and construction of underground cable systems. During these 38 years, he served on numerous national and international committees that developed standards for underground distribution systems such as cables, load break elbows, safety, and testing.

He has been a member of the Insulated Conductors Committee since 1956; has served as Subcommittee Chair, Secretary, Vice Chair, and Chair of the committee as well as Chair of several Working Groups. He received the ICC Distinguished Service Award in 1986. He served on the Cable Engineering Section of AEIC where he was Chair and Chair of the Extruded Dielectric Cable Specifications group. He is a Life Fellow of IEEE.

He has worked as Chair of two subcommittees of the National Electrical Safety Code, ANSI C2 and is editor of the textbook “Electrical Power Cable Engineering.”

Bill is presently working as an expert witness in lawsuits teaches at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, and does other consulting work.

Joseph T. Zimnoch, Consultant.

Joe Zimnoch received a BSEE in 1955 and MSEE in 1958 from Newark College of Engineering, now known as New Jersey Institute of Technology. He was employed by The Okonite Company for 41 years from 1954 to 1995 involved in research, application and installation of various type cables. The majority of his work was on paper and laminated paper insulated cables from 5kV to 500kV and he has been involved with numerous underground cable system installations in this voltage range. Since 1995 he has been an independent industry consultant to a variety of clients including cable companies, utilities, EPRI, consulting engineering firms and legal firms as an expert witness in litigation cases. He was an expert reviewer of the 1992 EPRI "Underground Transmission Systems Reference Book" and Vice Chairman of the just recently published IEEE Standard 1425 "Evaluation of the Remaining Life of Impregnated Paper Insulated Transmission Cable Systems". He is an active voting member of the ICC and a Life Member of both IEEE and the National Association of Corrosion Engineers.

Stan V. Heyer, PECO Energy.

S. V. Heyer is a Senior Engineer in the Distribution Equipment Branch of PECO Energy Co. He is responsible for cable and accessories from 600 volts through 230 kV. He has over 30 years of cable related experience in the utility industry. Stan received a B.S.E.E. from Drexel Institute of Technology in 1969 and an M.S.E.E. from Drexel University in 1973 and is a Registered Professional Engineer in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He has been an active member of the IEEE Insulated Conductors Committee since 1974 and is a past Chairman of the Insulations Subcommittee and the Cable Supply Systems Subcommittee. He is also a member and past Chairman of the AEIC Cable Engineering Section.

Willem Boone MSc, KEMA

Willem Boone obtained his Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering from Delft University of Technology in The Netherlands in 1961 and has almost forty years of experience with KEMA in the field of underground Electrical Power Transmission and Distribution. Mr. Boone is recognized world-wide as an expert in power cables, and he has made a significant contribution to the development of testing methods and related international standards for the electrical cable industry. He was an active member of the International Electrotechnical Committee for about 20 years. He is now the manager of KEMA Diagnostic Services in the USA, offering cable testing and related services to the utility customers. He is a member of CIGRE Study Committee B1 HV cables and chairman of CIGRE WG B1-04 Maintenance. He is an active member of the Insulated Conductors committee of the IEEE as vice chair of WG C19W preparing a new guide for PD field testing of power cables and as vice chair of the Trans National Lunch.

Carlos Katz, Cable Technology Laboratories

Carlos Katz has been active in the field of power transmission and distribution cables for over 40 years. He held research and engineering positions at General Cable Corporation and Phelps Dodge Cable and Wire Company until he became co-founder of Cable Technology Laboratories, Inc., in 1978.

Mr. Katz had major responsibilities, at General Cable and Phelps Dodge, for engineering and research in paper insulated cables and their accessories. He has conducted many analytical and laboratory investigations of degradation and failure of extruded cable insulation and accessories for both distribution and transmission cable systems. He was instrumental in developing methods to extend the service life of extruded distribution cable. Mr. Katz is the author or co-author of more than 35 technical papers and holds 16 USA Patents. He is a Fellow of the IEEE, a voting member of the ICC and a member of CIGRE.

Vern L. Buchholz, P.Eng., Powertech Labs Inc.

After completing his Bachelors degree, Mr. Buchholz worked for 7 years as a research associate at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, designing television systems for remote sensing. He joined BC Hydro in 1981 performing electrical design work on overhead and underground transmission systems. He came to Powertech Labs Inc., a research and testing subsidiary of BC Hydro, in 1984 were he is now the Director of the Electrical Technologies Business Unit. His group’s major work covers power cable and large generator and motor testing, and operation of the High Current Lab.

He is a Senior Member of the IEEE. He is a Professional Engineer registered in the Province of British Columbia Canada.

Brent Runyon, Pirelli Power Cables & Systems.

Brent Runyon received his BEE in 1997 and his MSEE in 1998 from the Georgia Institute of Technology, with a specialization in Power Systems. He spent a brief period as a transmission planner for the Southern Company, after which he joined Pirelli Power Cables & Systems as an Applications Engineer. He is also heavily involved in E-Business activities at Pirelli.

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