Different Types of Underground Cable Protection Systems

​Underground cables provide a network of connecting power supply. However, as cables are buried underground, cable locating and fault finding is usually difficult.

Moreover, cable systems are exposed to a lot of risks, which may lead to dangerous consequences. For instance, if cable systems are damaged, people digging the ground for utilities or property construction may suffer electrocution. Similarly, underground cable faults may happen because of the flood, excavators, and various other activities.

In order to ensure uninterrupted and continuous power distribution, it is very important to detect underground cable faults in time and protect against cable faults.

Tips to Protect Cable Systems against Underground Cable Faults

​Underground cable locating is the first and foremost challenge. Thereafter, it is possible to detect cable fault. The network of power cables under the ground includes switches, switch gear, and fuses housed together. The network of cables is contained in air insulated steel jars to prevent contaminants, wildlife, humans and other live parts from coming in contact. In addition, it reduced exposure to live parts.

The process of assembling cables is called pad-mounted gear. It can be supervised either remotely or manually.

Due to rising concerns over cable fault finding and locating, three common methods were coined to protect the cable system against major faults:

• Pad-mounted fused switches: This is a very common technique used for cable detection. It is a simple and inexpensive method
• Pad-mounted vacuum fault interrupters: Easy to operate and offers quick cable detection

Tips to Protect Cable Systems from Physical Damage

Underground cables have proper infrastructure and withstanding capacity. These cable networks are not vulnerable to environmental hazards or challenges. They are designed with the ability to protect and prevent corrosion, water ingress, and certain mechanical damage as well.
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However, in the event of extensive damage or challenging conditions, cables may suffer damage. Especially while digging trenches or executing property excavation work, there is a high risk of damage. Besides laying cable network deeper under the ground, some other precautionary measures should be taken to make sure it is safe. Different methods are used to provide protection to cables, which is highly influenced by the terrain, activity level, and voltage. Protection systems use various mechanisms such as:

• Impact Protection: Used to protect cables and make cable fault finding easier. The method uses tapes, pipes, covers, and other items to create a physical barrier and protect cables from damage.
• Visual Warning Signs: The process of cable locating becomes easier when you have visuals showing power cables, manholes, cable paths, and passage. This method is useful.

Products for Cable Protection

• Warning Tapes: Warning tapes work like markers and provide a visual warning or indication to people working near underground cables. Likewise, tiles, covers, heavy duty tapes, and mesh protect cables from sudden impact like digging or property excavation.
• Cable Protection Tapes: These tapes protect against impact. These are easy to use and install, in both high and low voltage underground cable systems.
• Mesh: Mesh also provides a warning to workers.

Similarly, some common materials are also used for cable protection systems such as reinforced concrete, plastic, and metal.

• Sheets and tiles are made up of polyethylene material that withstands damage from various objects, including hand tools.
• Reinforced concrete is used to design covers with imprinted warning signs and words as per regulatory standards.

​Conclusion​
The underground cable network is the most convenient power distribution system in the urban areas where overhead cables cannot be used. For continuous service and ensure, underground cable systems should be protected against damage and cable fault conditions. Only proper protection ensures uninterrupted service and reduces the risk of personal injury and accidents.

Author Bio: Jon Armstrong specialises in cable location and pipe scanning. He has several years of experience and expertise in utility location services. His exemplary service record makes him a recognized personality in the field of cable fault finding and utility services.

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