As underground cable systems become more widespread, a less invasive fault detection process is imperative. Once underground high voltage cable systems are in place, excavation of the entire cable system to locate faults and subsequent repair is not economically sound. Moreover, digging the whole length of the fault section increases the risk of accidents and damage to cables and surrounding properties. Time domain reflectometry provides the most accurate location of defects in underground cable systems.
Using pulses of radio frequency transmitted through the affected cable, a time domain reflectometer, also known as TDR, has an integrated timer that measures the frequency travel along the wire and records the time until the frequency is reflected back. Using a set of standards values for materials at various lengths, a disparity in the cable can be accurately pinpointed based on time. Any disparity in an underground high voltage cable installation in Wilmington, MA, means a change in impedance. Wire impedance tells the wire’s ability to transit pulses, thus a change in impedance translates to a change in recorded time.
ElecComm service personnel are equipped with the necessary skills in the operation and data analysis of TDRs for a cost-effective maintenance and repair of underground cabling system. ElecComm fully grasps the critical nature of underground cables in electrical systems and is committed in ensuring the continuous electrical power that is essential in business operations and productivity. For more about maintenance and repair of underground power cable systems, contact ElecComm.
