In the high-stakes world of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) power grids, the reliability of cable accessories is paramount. These critical components, often composed of multiple materials, can fail due to the discontinuity of insulation mediums. Now, a groundbreaking study from Shenyang University of Technology is shedding new light on how to enhance the durability of these essential parts, potentially revolutionizing the energy sector.
Yuqi Liu, a researcher at the College of Electrical Engineering, has been delving into the intricate world of surface charge migration in two-layered polymer films. Liu’s work, published in Energies, focuses on a simplified model of HVDC cable accessories, aiming to understand and improve their surface potential decay (SPD) characteristics.
Traditionally, research has centered on single-layered insulation materials. However, real-world applications often involve composite structures. Liu’s innovative approach involves a bipolar charge transport model, which examines the behavior of surface charges in an ethylene–propylene–diene monomer (EPDM)/polyethylene (PE) two-layered polymer film.
“The actual insulation structure is mostly composite,” Liu explains. “Therefore, it is of great practical significance to explore the surface charge migration characteristics of two-layered structures.”
Liu’s study reveals that the electron injection barrier plays a crucial role in surface charge dissipation. By increasing this barrier, the dissipation process slows down, inhibiting charge accumulation at the interface. This finding could lead to more robust and reliable cable accessories, reducing the risk of failures in HVDC power grids.
Moreover, the research shows that the trapping coefficient significantly impacts the surface potential in the stable state and the space charge density. During the early depolarization stage, the SPD rate is weakly dependent on the trap depth, with charge migration primarily governed by the external electric field.
The implications of this research are vast. As the demand for efficient and reliable power transmission grows, so does the need for advanced insulation materials. Liu’s work could pave the way for the development of next-generation cable accessories, enhancing the overall performance and longevity of HVDC power grids.
The energy sector is on the cusp of a significant transformation, and Liu’s research is at the forefront of this evolution. By understanding and manipulating the surface charge migration characteristics of two-layered polymer films, we can build a more resilient and efficient energy infrastructure. This could mean fewer outages, reduced maintenance costs, and a more reliable power supply for consumers.
As Liu’s research continues to gain traction, it is clear that the future of HVDC power grids lies in the innovative use of composite insulation materials. The work published in Energies, the International Journal of Energy, is a testament to the potential of this approach, offering a glimpse into a future where energy transmission is more efficient and reliable than ever before.