XWA Power & Cable has introduced a comprehensive guide aimed at mitigating cable procurement risks in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) projects. The guide highlights five critical areas where early cable specification checks can significantly reduce supply discrepancies, failed acceptance tests, and commissioning delays. Drawing from 17 years of experience in overseas cable supply, XWA’s guidance targets EPC teams evaluating medium- and high-voltage cable quotations, as well as contractors sourcing low-voltage, control, and overhead conductor packages.
The document emphasizes the importance of complete cable construction verification before orders are placed. XWA points out that abbreviated cable descriptions often omit essential components like semiconductive screens, metallic screening, and water-blocking arrangements. For instance, the designation “AL/XLPE/AWA/PVC 3 × 185 mm² 11kV” might not encompass all necessary manufacturing details. The company suggests a thorough, written review of all cable layers and components, with clarifications and approvals obtained prior to finalizing manufacturing instructions.
XWA’s guide also addresses the consequences of selecting non-equivalent materials, particularly in terms of electrical and mechanical performance. For example, using copper tape screen (CTS) versus copper wire screen (CWS) can result in significant differences in cost and short-circuit performance, with costs varying by over 10% and performance by 30%–50% in some designs. The choice of armour material is equally critical, as improper selection can lead to increased losses and reduced current-carrying capacity.
Environmental factors and proper product identification are also stressed. XWA cites CIGRE findings where water-treeing-related insulation breakdowns caused over 60% of operating failures in cables rated 110kV and above. The guide advises confirming water-blocking requirements and site conditions, and ensuring accurate product descriptions, particularly avoiding misidentification of materials such as copper-clad steel (CCS) for pure copper.
Testing and documentation alignment with the actual cable design is another key focus. Depending on voltage class, testing may include AC withstand tests and partial-discharge measurements. XWA coordinates production and testing through qualified partners, ensuring tests can commence swiftly post-production. Relevant standards include IEC 60502-2, IEC 60840, and IEC 62067.
The guide concludes by addressing transport, installation, and the potential costs of procurement failures. XWA underscores the importance of thorough installation reviews, covering aspects like minimum bending radius and sheath protection. Highlighting a Mongolian mining project, the company warns against unsuitable arrangements that can lead to excessive heating and deterioration, emphasizing the need for prompt technical clarifications.
XWA Power & Cable’s guidance seeks to aid international EPC purchasers, utilities, distributors, and project teams in preparing cable schedules and evaluating suppliers, aiming to resolve technical ambiguities prior to production to ensure consistency and prevent costly procurement errors.
joaquin Fan
XWA Power & Cable
+86 153 2498 1792
[email protected]
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