Ampacity Calculations of High-Voltage Cables Using Multiphysics Simulation

High voltage cable circuits installed in a concrete duct bank - temperature distribution and isothermal lines.

Get an introduction to modeling thermal performance of high-voltage cables in COMSOL Multiphysics(R) in this webinar. High-voltage power cables are major assets and are expected to work reliably for many years. One of the factors affecting reliability is thermal performance of the cables. This has to be determined at the early stage of the design and is achieved by calculations of the thermal rating (often called ampacity).

Ampacity calculations usually involve two different physics: heat transfer (in solids and gases/liquids) and electromagnetics (Joule losses in the conductor, dielectric losses, and electromagnetic induction). Some models of cable installations are relatively easy to solve, while others require in-depth knowledge of the physics and experience in building FEM models. For example, the heat transfer from directly buried cables involves only conduction, while for cables installed in air, radiation and convection must be taken into consideration.

This webinar will demonstrate how to build finite element models of underground cables using COMSOL Multiphysics(R). The presentation concludes with a Q&A session.