Accurate modelling of field stresses in an unshielded three-core power cable

This paper uses the charge simulation technique to calculate the potential and electric field stress distribution at the surfaces of the conductors and the dielectric of an unshielded three-core power cable. The conductors and the sheath are simulated by a suitable finite number of complex line charges. The unshielded three-core cable is placed on a grounded plane and at varying heights above it to calculate the electric field as a function of the height of the insulated cable from the ground. The maximum value of the electric field stress at the grounded plane due to the presence of the insulated three-core cable is detected to check the discharge activities at the grounded plane surface. Comparison is made with field stresses arising from a single-core unshielded insulated cable which are given in the literature. The charge simulation technique is found to be satisfactory to model and calculate accurately the field stresses in a three-core unshielded power cable.