Recent research published in IEEE Access has shed light on the critical factors affecting the temperature distribution of shore power cables, which play an essential role in connecting ships to electrical power sources on land. Conducted by Fei You from the School of Electrical Engineering at the College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA in Malaysia, the study highlights the impact of environmental conditions on the performance and longevity of these cables.
Shore power cables are subjected to various environmental stresses, including direct sunlight, wind, and water currents. These factors can accelerate insulation aging, affecting both the service life and current carrying capacity of the cables. To better understand these influences, the research employed a sophisticated electromagnetic-thermal-flow multiphysics simulation model, specifically examining the CEU94 – 8.7/10 kV – 3×120 mm² cable.
The findings reveal significant insights into how temperature variations occur in response to environmental conditions. For instance, a 10°C rise in ambient temperature correlates with an 11.66°C increase in conductor temperature. Furthermore, the study indicates that increasing wind speed can dramatically lower maximum conductor temperatures. “When the wind speed increases from still to 10 m/s, the maximum conductor temperature decreases by 13.84°C,” noted You, emphasizing the importance of wind in temperature regulation.
The research also explored the effects of water flow and wind on temperature stabilization. When cables are submerged in water, the temperature is about 5.5°C lower than when they are laid in air, demonstrating the cooling benefits of water. In extreme summer conditions, the maximum conductor temperature can reach as high as 117.6°C, underscoring the need for effective temperature management strategies in cable design and installation.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector, particularly for companies involved in marine and port operations. Understanding how environmental factors influence shore power cable performance can lead to improved cable designs that enhance durability and efficiency. This could open up new commercial opportunities in the development of advanced materials and technologies for cable insulation, as well as better predictive maintenance strategies that can extend the lifespan of these critical components.
As the maritime industry increasingly shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of shore power cables will be vital. This research not only contributes to the academic understanding of cable dynamics but also provides practical insights that can drive innovation in the energy sector.
For more information on the research and its implications, you can visit Universiti Teknologi MARA.
