Measurement of relative eddy current losses in stranded cables

THE amount of energy dissipated by eddy currents in copper conductors is a matter of interest in many branches of the electrical industry. Eddy current losses in stranded copper cables constitute a source of heat. If the alternating flux density is high at usual operating frequencies, the eddy current losses may seriously restrict the conductor rating based on permissible temperature rise. This paper has been prepared, therefore, to describe a method which will provide accurate measurements of eddy current losses on a comparative basis. The method of test is not advanced as being original with the author, but represents the accumulated experience of the Test Department of The New York Edison Company with several series of tests of this character.