Wave modeling and fault localization for underwater power cables

This paper describes some preliminary results regarding Time-Domain pulse Reflection (TDR) measurements and modeling performed on the Baltic Cable submarine HVDC link between southern Sweden and northern Germany. The measurements were conducted in collaboration between the Linnaeus University, Lund University, Baltic Cable AB and ABB High Voltage Cables AB, and is part of the research project: “Fundamental wave modeling for signal estimation on lossy transmission lines”. Preliminary results on measurements and modeling are included here, as well as a first numerical study regarding the low-frequency dispersion characteristics of power cables. The numerical study shows that the finite conductivity of the cable lead shield has a great impact on the losses at low frequencies (0-1 kHz), and that the low-frequency asymptotics of the propagation constant is consistent with common propagation models based on the skin-effect.