[Date]
Methods Of
Statement
Cable Sheath Test
Muruganatham
ANSIC-ENERGY PROJECTS & SERVICES
[Link]
[Link] SHEATH DC VOLTAGE WITHSTAND TEST
2.0 References
According to IEC 60229, “Test on cables over sheaths which have a special protective
function and are applied by extrusion” the outer sheath shall be tested with 4kV DC/mm
sheath with a maximum of 10kV DC during 1 minute.
2.1 Instruments / Equipment to be use:
MFM10 DC High Voltage Test Kit or equivalent
2.2 Description & Procedures
2.2.1 This is the application of a high voltage between the cable metallic sheath and
earth in order to ascertain the integrity of the anti-corrosive covering. The applied
voltage is usually in the order of 4kV dc per mm thickness of the anti corrosive
covering up to a maximum of 10kV DC.
2.2.2 The voltage must be maintained for 1 minute, no breakdowns must occur to prove
the integrity of the outer sheath covering.
2.2.3 Before testing commences the following preparations and precautions must be
carried out.
[Link] Newly laid Cables
Outer sheaths at both ends to be scraped and solvent cleaned to
remove all traces of semi-conductive covering.
Cable ends to be supported, behind cleaned area, with suitable
supports, i.e. wood-blocks, cable trestle, etc
[Link] After Completing Cables Installation
It is necessary to disconnect the bonding links to isolate the lead alloy sheath
of the cable length to be tested. The surge arresters should also be
disconnected.
Cable outer sheaths and bonding leads also required to be cleaned at
sealing ends locations.
2.2.4 Connect the cable core to an earthing point to prevent the core being charged. Now
that the lead alloy sheaths have been isolated, the test can take place.
2.2.5 Connect the test equipment with one wire clamp to the lead alloy sheath of one phase
2.2.6 Before switching on, make sure that no one can get within reach of parts of the cable
system where the high voltage is applied. Put up warning tapes and/or signs, which
2.2.7 state the situation and station some watchmen along the route and at the other cable
end.
2.2.8 Switch on and apply a 10kV test voltage during 1 minute and note the leakage current
after this time.
2.2.9 After switching off, earth the lead alloy using earth rod before removing the clamp.
2.2.10 Repeat these procedures for the other two phases.
2.2.11 Before and after carrying DC voltage test, insulation resistance of the outer sheath
to be tested by injecting 1kV DC. Results of IR values shall be calculated per Km of
cable and to be recorded in the attached form.
Connection Diagram
Connection is made to the metallic sheath of the cable under test.
In the diagram above it is connected to the Red phase. The return
earth path for the cable under test is via the semi-conductive layer
on the outer sheath.
2.3 Acceptance Criteria
Cable sheath shall withstand the test voltage. Any leakage current shall be recorded.