Specifying, selecting, and testing quality cable

Medium-voltage power cables are the backbone of the electrical system in modern petrochemical plants. These cables must provide maximum reliability and performance. Prior practice, in many instances, has been to select cable products based on price alone. A novel approach, using life cycle costs, is making inroads within the petrochemical industry. Selecting cable that represents state-of-the-art technology is only a part of this process. Emphasis is now being placed on supplier performance through the use of quantitative and qualitative continuous improvement programs. Implementation of these programs will help increase product performance and reliability, thus resulting in the lowest evaluated total cost of cable system ownership. Considerations that are deemed important in the specification and procurement process of quality cables are addressed. The goal is to ensure that the right cable is available at the right time and in the right quantity