Approaching Cross-linked Polyethylene Cables

 What is XLPE?

XLPE - cross-linked polyethylene. Polyethylene is a linear molecular structure that tends to deform at high temperatures. It becomes the cross-linked polyethylene when peroxide is into polyethylene. This peroxide reacts chemically with polyethylene at high temperatures, pressures, and inert gas environments to turn thermoplastic polyethylene into thermosetting (elastic) polyethylene - XLPE.

Thus cross-linked polyethylene is a reticulated structure, and this structure is just as resistant to deformation at high temperatures.

Features of XLPE

High-temperature resistance: Cross-linked polyethylene with a three-dimensional mesh structure has excellent resistance to high temperatures. It does not dissolve and char easily below 200 and can operate at long-term temperatures up to 90, with a thermal service life of 40 years.

Insulation performance. Cross-linked polyethylene has the excellent insulating properties of polyethylene and has insulating properties.

Mechanical properties. Due to the establishment of new ionic bonds between biological macromolecules, the strength, bending stiffness, abrasion resistance, and impact resistance of XLPE electric cables have been improved, making up for the defects of polyethylene which is prone to cracking by force in a natural environment.

Resistance to solvents. Cross-linked polyethylene is highly resistant to corrosion and abrasion. The vital ignition substances are water and carbon dioxide, which are less harmful to the natural environment and comply with contemporary safety and fire regulations.

Comparison of XLPE and PVC

Polyvinyl chloride insulation is a thermoplastic material. Its mechanical properties depend to a large extent on the crystallization of the polymer. Under the action of electricity and heat, especially when the cable is in overcurrent or short-circuits fault, the temperature may rise to produce internal softening and deformation, resulting in reduced insulation performance and other insulation damage. 

But the (XLPE) uses chemical or physical methods to transform the cable insulation polyethylene molecules from a linear molecular structure to a main body net-like molecular structure (thermoplastic polyethylene to thermosetting cross-linked polyethylene). 

It improves its heat resistance and mechanical properties, reduces its shrinkage, makes it no longer melt after being heated, and maintains its excellent electrical properties.

What is Cross-Linked Polyethylene Insulated Cable( XLPE Power Cable )?

XLPE insulated cables are cables that use cross-linked polyethylene material included in the outer layer of the conductor.

Advantages of XLPE Power Cable

1. More Lighter weight.

2. Smaller diameter, easy to install and lay.

3. Simple attachment joint.

4. Good heat resistance.

5. Cross-linked polyethylene insulated cable can reach up to 90℃. Can remain flexible at 130°C.

6. High load capacity

Relative to PVC insulated cable of the same cross-section, its cross-sectional flow can be increased by about 25%.

7. No melting, chemical resistance.

8. High mechanical strength and good mechanical properties.

Because of the superior performance of XLPE power cable, it is widely used in transmission lines of various voltage levels in electric power systems, and has replaced oil paper insulated cable in medium and low voltage distribution networks, and is constantly developing into high voltage and ultra-high voltage fields.

ZMS Cable Manufacturing produces XLPE power cables following domestic and international standards. We can also design and manufacture cable products according to customer requirements, providing you with an exclusive customized cable product. For more information about ZMS cables, you can contact us.