Contaminated soil: Protection of cable connections from chemical attack
The challenge: chemically contaminated soils
In sectors such as aviation, petrochemicals, and ports, soil contamination poses a major risk to underground medium-voltage networks. Chemicals and microorganisms can affect the cable jacket and cable joints, leading to accelerated aging, material degradation and ultimately failure.
How contaminated soil affects cables
- Chemical corrosion: Acids, alkalis, sulfates and chlorides attack metal jackets and plastic sheaths.
- Solvents and hydrocarbons: Cause swelling and weakening of PVC or PE jackets.
- Biological corrosion: Sulfate-reducing bacteria produce hydrogen sulfide, extremely aggressive to copper jackets.
- Thermal Hot Spots: Poor heat conduction of contaminated soil increases cable temperature and accelerates degradation.
Why cable joints are extra vulnerable
Cable joints consist of multiple materials (plastic, metal, rubber) and complex seals. In contaminated soil:
- Differential attack: Different materials degrade at different rates, causing moisture infiltration.
- Chemical penetration: Harmful substances can affect the materials of the cables.
- PD Risk: Compromised insulation materials can lower dielectric strength and moisture penetration can lead to microcavities that can cause partial discharges.
The solution: polyurethane resins as external protection
Lovink Enertech uses high-quality polyurethane (PUR) resin to fully encapsulate cable joints. This offers:
- Chemical resistance: Protection against acids, alkalis and hydrocarbons.
- Waterproofing: Hermetic sealing prevents moisture infiltration and water tree formation.
- Mechanical robustness: Resistant to pressure, shocks and sharp objects in the soil.
In combination with LoviSil® liquid silicone technology on the inside, this guarantees double protection: internal against PD and external against contaminated soil. With PUR resin and LoviSil®:
- Extend the life of cable connections
- Minimizes the risk of failure in contaminated soil
- You create a stable, safe electrical environment
Want to know more about reliable cable connections?
Would you like to discover how LoviSil® cable joints protect your medium-voltage network against interference and save costs? Feel free to contact our specialists for advice without obligation.
