Prysmian Group | German HVDC cable projects: at the core of the European Energy Transition 8 | In the field of the EHV application for DC current, Prysmian Group pursued the development and industrialization programof ±525 kV extruded cables systems, after the successful completion of the pre-qualification tests at ±525 kV obtained in 2019 for the two qualified solutions: XLPE and P-Laser. XLPE is a cross-linked polyethylene-based insulation, with a dedicated formula for DC systems application. XLPE technology requires a crosslinking process, essential for stabilizing the insulation material as the process determines the presence of cross-linking by-products, such as methane, cumyl alcohol, acetophenone. These by-products should be removed, after the cross-linking with a specific thermal treatment process, known as “degassing”, that decreases the amount of residual by-products present in the cable. Electrical and thermomechanical working performance should be selected accordingly, to guarantee reliable systemoperations at the ever-increasing voltage levels. XLPE technology main advantages are longer transmission lengths with lower systemlosses, lightweight cable qualified at the highest voltages. P-Laser cable technology is based on High Performance Thermoplastic Elastomer insulation which, compared to cross-linked polyethylene-based, does not require the crosslinking process and, not having crosslinking by-products, does not require the time-consuming degassing process. A further very important advantage is that the material itself is fully recyclable, which will become mostly relevant for the decommissioning stage of old HVDC links. Moreover, it is important to point out that the P-Laser technology is fully compatible with existing cable accessories and can be integrated in networks using different insulation technologies. XLPE technology main advantages are longer transmission lengths with lower system losses, lightweight cable qualified at the highest voltages. P-Laser technology main advantages are more efficient cable manufacturing and lower environmental impact, usingan in-house developed insulation material with excellent electrical properties. XLPE and P-Laser: excellent solutions fit for advanced projects XLPE XLPE insulation up to 600 kV DC for underground and submarine applications Lower system costs and lighter cables for voltage levels up to 320 kV Newmaterial with low electrical conductivity High material cleanliness Same thermal performance of DC XLPE used so far up to 320 kV Same technological platform used for XLPE AC and DC cables Over 30,000 km experience in MV networks Higher thermal performance properties for increased power transmission capability *Refers to the end-of-life phase of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluation Operating temperature range increased Innovative HPTE insulation up to 600 kV DC for underground and submarine applications 100% eco-friendly and fully recyclable materials* Reduction of Co2 emissions by up to 30%
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