Simulation of a LV power distribution cable as communication medium - a finite element approach

Many models proposed in the literature to describe Low Voltage power distribution networks in consumer premises as communication media require knowledge of the electrical parameters of the cables comprising these networks. These parameters are nevertheless affected by a large number of factors which may vary greatly from case to case, making it thus very difficult to achieve an exact estimation about them. In this work a finite element approach is used for the simulation of a power distribution cable as communication medium, and the operational series impedance per unit length of a widely used cable type is derived. Moreover, the variation of the cable´s operational series impedance versus current frequency, cable distance from earth and earth resistivity is presented.