Large parts of Western and Central Europe are currently being hit by severe winter weather. Snowfall, ice formation and persistent frost are causing major disruption on roads, railways and in aviation. The impact is also significant at Schiphol Airport, where aircraft have been continuously de-iced 24 hours a day for several days. What often remains out of sight, however, is the effect of these conditions on the underground infrastructure of airports. It is precisely there, beneath runways and taxiways, that reliable protection of cable connections is essential — a role in which Lovink makes the difference with its cable joints.
De-icing: essential for safe flights
Ice on an aircraft can have a major impact on flight safety. Ice formation must be prevented in particular on critical components such as the wings and tailplane. When temperatures drop well below freezing at ground level, conditions at an altitude of ten kilometres are even more extreme. Mechanical parts and control surfaces can freeze, with serious risks as a result.
De-icing is therefore a standard winter procedure. Before departure, aircraft are sprayed with special fluids that remove existing ice while simultaneously applying a protective layer. This layer prevents new ice from forming during taxiing and take-off and directly contributes to flight safety.
Hidden risks beneath the runway
What is often less visible are the effects of de-icing on airport infrastructure. The chemical additives in de-icing fluids enter the soil through runoff water. At many airports, the medium-voltage power grid runs beneath parking areas, taxiways and runways. In these locations, the chemicals pose a serious risk of corrosion and chemical degradation of electrical components, including cable connections.
The added value of Lovink cable joints
Lovink’s medium-voltage cable joints are designed for environments where reliability under extreme conditions is essential. The cable connections are fully encapsulated in a durable resin, providing long-term protection against moisture, chemical influences and corrosion. This robust sealing ensures that the electrical connection remains intact, even when the soil is exposed for prolonged periods to aggressive substances such as de-icing fluids. As a result, Lovink cable joints offer a safe and future-proof solution for airports and other critical infrastructures.
