PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Construction Of Underground
Cables, Safety Standards, &
Complex Electrical
Installations
EE ELECTIVE 2 HIGH VOLTAGE UNDERGROND
CABLE DESIGN (HVUCD)

SUBMITTED BY:
Barte, John Christopher
Durian, Steffi Mae
Gabiola, Mark Darwin
GROUP NO. 1

SUBMITTED TO:
Engr. Harry Errasquin
(EE Elective 2 Instructor)

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

INTRODUCTION
The transmission of power from the power station to the consumer is done via
Transmission lines and these lines can be overhead lines or underground cables. There are
some disadvantages associated with overhead lines hence these underground cables are
developed to overcome the challenges. Cables are covered with two or more layers of
insulation to protect them from external factors. The term underground cables itself means
that these are not visible outside and are placed within the earth's surface.
Underground cables are electrical power cables that are buried in the ground for the
transmission and distribution of electricity. They are often used in urban areas where
overhead power lines are not practical due to aesthetic or safety reasons.

I. HISTORY OF UNDERGROUND CABLE DESIGN

The First Place Where Underground Cable Design Took Place
The first reference to cables or wires was reported in 1812 when a Russian named
Schilling used rubber-varnish insulated wires to explode mineral ores. Some of the first
electric distribution systems in Paris and London were laid in sewers or underground
drainage systems between 1870 and 1880. but the conductors were bare copper, insulated
from earth by glass or porcelain insulators.

Dr. Ferranti’s Pioneering Scheme

The first successful scheme in
the UK using HV insulated conductors
was pioneered by Dr. Ferranti in 1890
for the London Electric Supply
Corporation. The Ferranti Cable was
manufactured with a multilayer
laminated dielectric in lengths of 20
feet and required 7,000 to 8,000
splices for the route length of some 30
miles. The installation was installed
and working successfully by
February
15, 1891, and the last length was only removed from service in 1933.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

19th Century power transmission.
Illustration showing Sebastian Ziani de
Ferranti (1864-1930) testing his 10,000
Volt cable in 1890. His assistant (with a
look of trepidation) is holding an
uninsulated chisel as it is driven through
the live cable, to demonstrate Ferranti's
protective cut- out. Deptford Power
station in south- east London, also
designed by Ferranti and opened in
1889, was the
first station to produce a high-voltage output (10,000V) for transmission.

Low-voltage cable, made by S. Z. de

Ferranti for Deptford Power
S. Z. de Ferranti Ltd S Z de Ferranti Ltd
10,000-volt electricity electricity supply cable,
supply cable, 1889. 1890

Thomas A. Edison's "Street Pipes" (1881) for Generator-Lamp Connection

Just over 100 years ago in the United States, Thomas
A. Edison invented the underground “Street Pipes” that are
described in his US Patent No. 251,552 dated December 27, 1881.
Edison needed a means to connect two of his previous inventions,
the generator and the incandescent lamp. The Edison “Street Pipes”
operated at 110 volts DC and consisted of jute-wrapped copper bars
that were inserted into an iron tube and the interstices filled with a
bituminous or wax compound (Figure 1). Present day power cables
are amazingly similar in spite of the passage of 100 years.
Considerable progress has been made, however, with improved
dielectric materials, allowing for cables to be produced more
economically and the development of high voltage cables.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

 Edison “Street Pipes.” (Courtesy of
Some 19th century Edison “Street Pipe”
Michael Purcell, Energex.)
joints. (Courtesy of Michael Purcell,
Energex.)
During the intervening 100
years, the prominent products developed for underground power cables were fluid-
impregnated paper–insulated cable that was perfected by Emanuelli of the Pirelli Company in
1917 and cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation that was developed by General
Electric Company in 1963. In Japan fluid-filled cables were the most prominent cable design
until 1967, when the quantity of XLPE-insulated cable exceeded that of fluid-filled cables
because of the rapid progress made in polymer chemistry after World War II. By 1991 more
than 90% of all cables installed in Japan were XLPE-insulated cables [2]. Figure 2 compares
the usage growth rate for paper.

II. THEORY OF UNDERGROUND CABLE DESIGN

Underground power cables form an essential
connecting link between two or more electrical apparatus.
The variety of uses, service conditions, and technical
methods associated with the manufacture and installation of
insulated power cables have resulted in a large number of
materials, designs, and constructions.

Essentially, power cables used for the distribution

and transmission of electricity consist of conductors
stranded from high-conductivity metals such as copper or
aluminum that are insulated with fluid-impregnated Kraft-
paper tapes or polymer-based
materials that are extruded around a central conductor. The single or multicore assembly is
then enclosed in an overall sheath, jacket, or both. When necessary, they may also be covered
with a water-impermeable sheath or protected by metallic wire armor.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

Classification of Underground Cable
I. Number of conductors
 Single Core
 Two Core
 Three Core
 Four Core

II. Rating of Voltage

 Low Voltage (L.W) cables for operating voltage up to 1000 volts.
 High Voltage (H.T) cables for operating voltage up to 11,000 volts.
 Super Tension (S.T) cables for operating voltage up to 33,000 volts.
 Extra High Tension (E.H.T) cables for operating voltage up to 66,000 volt
 Extra Super Voltage (E.S.V) cables for operating voltages of 132KV above

III. Nature of application of Insulation and Lead sheathing

 Belted Cable
 H-Type
 S.L. Type
 HSL Type

IV. Method of Improving the dielectric Stress

 Solid Type
 Oil Filled Type
 External Oil Pressure Type
 Gas Pressure Type

General Constructional Design of Underground Cables

The structure of an underground cable consists of numerous layers, every serving a
particular purpose. At the core is the conductor, generally fabricated from copper or
aluminum, which incorporates the electric contemporary. Surrounding the conductor is
insulation, frequently manufactured from substances like polyethylene or pass-linked
polyethylene, supplying electrical insulation and safety. This insulation is in addition
included through a metal protect, which offers grounding and protection towards outside
interference. Finally, an outer jacket made from PVC or comparable cloth encases the entire
cable, offering mechanical safety and insulation from moisture and environmental elements.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

 1. Cores or Conductors: A cable may have one or more than one core (conductor)
depending upon the type of service for which it is intended. The conductors are made
of tinned copper or aluminum and are usually stranded in order to provide flexibility
to the underground cable.

2. Insulation: Each core or conductor is provided with a suitable thickness of

insulation, the thickness of layer depending upon the voltage to be withstood by the
cable. The commonly used materials for insulation are impregnated paper, varnished
cambric or rubber mineral compound.

3. Metallic sheath: In order to protect the underground cables from moisture, gases or
other damaging liquids (acids or alkalis) in the soil and atmosphere.

4. Bedding: Over the metallic sheath is applied a layer of bedding which consists of a
fibrous material like jute or hessian tape. The purpose of bedding is to protect the
metallic sheath against corrosion and from mechanical injury due to armouring.

5. Armouring: Over the bedding, armouring is provided which consists of one or two
layers of galvanised steel wire or steel tape.Its purpose is to protect the cable from
mechanical injury while laying it and during the course of handling. Armouring may
not be done in the case of some underground cables.

6. Serving: In order to protect armouring from atmospheric conditions, a layer of

fibrous material (like jute) similar to bedding is provided over the armouring. This is
known as serving.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

III. APPLICATION OF UNDERGROUND CABLE DESIGN

A. Construction Of Underground Cables

1. Urban Areas:

In densely populated urban areas, underground cables are often preferred to overhead
lines due to aesthetic reasons and space constraints.
Underground cables supply
electricity to residential buildings,
commercial complexes, and industrial
facilities, ensuring uninterrupted power
distribution without obstructing city
skylines or impeding urban
development.
In 2014, Councilor Leonardo Avila
initiated an ordinance to address the
issue of messy overhead wires in the city
of Davao. The ordinance required
electric, telecommunication, and other
utility wires near the City Hall
and Sangguniang Panlungsod building to be placed underground. This initiative, completed
in 2016, marked the beginning of a larger project aimed at burying all overhead wires in the
downtown area.
In 2017, City Ordinance 0152-17 mandated telecommunication companies, Davao
Light, and others to convert overhead lines to an underground system. The project, covering
the central business district, is divided into five phases. The first phase, covering Claro M.
Recto Street, was completed in 2021, costing P217 million. The second phase, covering San
Pedro Street, was completed in early 2023. Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte emphasized the
project's benefits during its inauguration, noting improvements in safety and aesthetics.
Davao Light and Power Company's president, Engr. Roger Velasco, acknowledged the local
government's initiative in creating a competitive image for Davao City.
The third phase of the project is currently underway along Ramon Magsaysay
Avenue, located in the Davao City Chinatown District.

Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQNWBSjT9-0

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

2. Infrastructure Projects
Underground cables are essential components of infrastructure projects such as roadways,
bridges, tunnels, and railways. They provide power for lighting, traffic signals, surveillance
systems, and other infrastructure requirements, enhancing safety and functionality while
minimizing visual clutter.

Link process of installation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8iSJGEAsUQ

3. Coastal Areas and Harbors

Coastal areas and harbors require robust electrical infrastructure to support port
operations, including ship docking, cargo handling, and navigation systems.
Underground cables provide a reliable power supply to port facilities, mitigating the risks
associated with exposure to harsh marine environments and inclement weather conditions.

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPvn65Nrwyw&t=61s

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

4. Renewable Energy Integration:
Underground cables play a crucial role in connecting renewable energy sources like
wind farms and solar parks to the main grid.
By transmitting electricity generated from renewable sources to urban centers or
industrial hubs, underground cables facilitate the integration of clean energy into the
existing power infrastructure.

5. Industrial Applications:
Industries with sensitive operations or hazardous environments often rely on underground
cables to power equipment and machinery.
Underground cables offer protection against external elements, mechanical damage, and
electromagnetic interference, ensuring the safety and reliability of critical industrial
processes.

In conclusion, the construction of underground cables offers a reliable, efficient, and

aesthetically pleasing solution for power transmission needs. With their ability to minimize
visual impact and mitigate environmental concerns, underground cables play a crucial role in
modern infrastructure development, supporting various industries and ensuring the safe and
uninterrupted distribution of electricity.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

B. Safety Standards for HV and Complex Electrical Installation
Importance: Safety standards are essential for mitigating risks and hazards associated with
high voltage and complex electrical installations. Failure to comply with these standards can
lead to accidents, injuries, and damage to property and infrastructure.

(1) Applications Across Industries:

 Power Generation Plants: Ensuring safe operation of generators, transformers,
and switchgear to prevent accidents and maintain power generation.
 Industrial Facilities: Implementing safety standards in manufacturing plants,
refineries, and chemical processing facilities to protect workers and equipment.
 Commercial Buildings: Compliance with safety standards in high-rise buildings,
shopping centers, and office complexes to safeguard occupants and assets.
 Healthcare Facilities: Maintaining safety in hospitals, clinics, and medical
laboratories to protect patients and medical staff from electrical hazards.
 Data Centers and Telecommunications: Ensuring reliability and security in
data centers and telecommunication facilities to prevent service disruptions and data
loss.

(2) Key Elements of Safety Standards:

 Equipment Design and Selection: Ensuring the use of properly designed and
certified equipment suitable for high voltage applications.
 Installation Practices and Procedures: Following industry best practices and
guidelines for safe installation of electrical systems and equipment.
 Personnel Training and Qualifications: Providing comprehensive training to
personnel involved in high voltage operations to promote awareness and adherence to
safety protocols.
 Maintenance and Inspection Protocols: Implementing regular inspection,
testing, and maintenance procedures to detect and address potential hazards and
equipment failures.
 Emergency Response and Incident Management: Establishing protocols for
responding to electrical emergencies, including evacuation procedures, first aid
measures, and incident reporting.

In conclusion, adhering to safety standards for high voltage and complex electrical
installations is essential to ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of electrical systems
across various industries and settings. Continuous vigilance, training, and collaboration are
key to maintaining a safe working environment and preventing accidents and incidents.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

IV. FUTURE OF UNDERGROUND CABLE DESIGN

The Current State of Underground Electrical Infrastructure

Underground electrical infrastructure plays a vital role in providing power to homes,
businesses, and public facilities. However, the traditional methods used to construct and
maintain these systems are not environmentally friendly. Conventional underground electrical
systems are typically built using materials like concrete and asphalt, which require significant
amounts of energy to produce and have a large carbon footprint.
In addition, the excavation and construction processes involved in installing
underground electrical infrastructure can lead to soil erosion, habitat destruction, and
disruption of natural water flow. These negative impacts can harm ecosystems and affect the
overall health of our planet.

The Evolution of City Planning

As urban areas faced rapid growth and expansion, the need for organized and efficient
utility systems became paramount. Underground infrastructure not only provided a solution
for power distribution but also allowed for better planning and allocation of urban space.

Today, underground electrical infrastructure is a critical component of urban

development and city planning. It offers an array of advantages that continue to drive its
implementation and expansion.
Moreover, over time, technological advancements played a pivotal role in making
underground electrical infrastructure more practical and feasible. The development of
insulated cables and protective materials significantly enhanced safety and efficiency.
Additionally, inventions such as the conduit system, which provided a protective casing for
cables, further minimized the risk of damage.
Key Takeaways:
 Advancements in insulation materials and conduits improved safety and efficiency.
 Underground electrical infrastructure became increasingly practical and feasible.
While the technological advances were crucial, a significant driving force behind the
widespread adoption of underground electrical infrastructure was the realization of its long-
term benefits. Cities that invested in these systems found that they provided a more reliable
and robust power distribution solution, with fewer disruptions caused by weather events or
accidental damage.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

Advancements In Underground Electrical Infrastructure

(1) Advanced Cable Technologies

New cable technologies are being developed to address the technical limitations of
underground infrastructure. High-voltage cables with improved insulation materials and
reduced transmission losses have the potential to increase cable capacity and minimize
voltage drop over longer distances.

(2) Remote Sensing and Monitoring

Advancements in remote sensing and monitoring technologies allow utilities to locate
faults in underground cables with greater precision. These technologies, such as fiber-optic
sensing and thermal imaging, can identify potential issues before they result in outages,
reducing maintenance costs and improving system reliability.

(3) Sustainable Materials

With an increasing focus on sustainability, the development of environmentally-
friendly materials for cable insulation and sheathing is gaining momentum. These materials
offer improved resistance to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and chemical exposure,
extending the lifespan of underground infrastructure.

(4) Smart Grid Integration

Integrating underground infrastructure with smart grid technologies enables real-time
monitoring and control of the electrical system. This allows utilities to optimize power
distribution, predict and prevent outages, and improve overall grid efficiency.

Underground electrical infrastructure offers numerous advantages, including enhanced

aesthetics, reduced outages, increased safety, improved reliability, and higher capacity.
Challenges in underground infrastructure include high installation costs, complex
maintenance and repair, technical limitations, and exposure to environmental factors.
Innovations such as advanced cable technologies, remote sensing and monitoring, sustainable
materials, and smart grid integration are driving the progress of underground electrical
infrastructure.
As underground electrical infrastructure continues to evolve, it holds great potential for
meeting the demands of our growing cities while maintaining the highest standards of
reliability, efficiency, and safety.

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design

REFERENCES:

Orton, H. (2013). History of underground power cables. IEEE Electrical Insulation Magazine,
29(4), 52-57.

Umeda, S., Ishii, N., Horiguchi, N., Maeda, M., Yamaguchi, T., Tanaka, H., ... & Akasaka, H.
(2007). Underground power cable, distribution cable, overhead transmission line, industrial
cable and their accessories. Furukawa Review, 32, 2-20.

Argaut, P. (2021). Underground Cables. Springer Handbook of Power Systems, 759- 866.

Rose, P. H. (1970). Underground power transmission. Science, 170(3955), 267-273.

Links:
Energy, E. C. (2023, December 1). Exploring the history and evolution of underground
electrical infrastructure. Utilities One. https://utilitiesone.com/exploring- the-history-and-
evolution-of-underground-electrical-infrastructure

Testbook. (2023, September 27). Underground cables: Know construction,

classification, insulation. Testbook. https://testbook.com/electrical-
engineering/underground-cables-definition-diagram-and-types

Electricaleasy.com: Underground power cables. (n.d.).

https://www.electricaleasy.com/2017/03/underground-power-cables.html

Palakala. (2022, June 10). Construction of Underground cables - Electrical Engineering

Info. Electrical Engineering Info.
https://www.electricalengineeringinfo.com/2014/12/construction-of-underground-
cables.html

EE Elective 2 High Voltage Underground Cable Design