NKT Qualifies 525 kV HVDC Subsea Cable System for 90°C Operation

NKT has qualified a 525 kV HVDC extruded subsea power cable system for continuous operation at conductor temperatures up to 90 degrees Celsius, marking a significant advance in its next-generation cable technology. The higher temperature capability gives transmission operators greater flexibility, supporting higher transmission capacity, reduced material consumption and improved system efficiency. Enabled by a redesigned insulation system developed with material partner Borouge International, the technology supports growing demand for HVDC systems in offshore wind and interconnectors.

 

Details of the Qualification

 

NKT has achieved a significant technical qualification. It qualified a 525 kV HVDC subsea power cable system. This uses extruded XLPE cable technology. The system is qualified for continuous operation at up to 90 degrees Celsius. This marks an advance in the company's cable technology.

The qualification represents a step forward in development. It builds on the company's existing technology platform. It reflects continuous development of HVDC cable technology. The higher temperature capability is the key advance. This positions the company at the forefront of the technology.

 

The Benefits of Higher Temperature

 

The higher operating temperature offers several advantages. It gives operators greater flexibility in cable system design. This flexibility extends to how systems are operated. The capability can support higher transmission capacity. This addresses growing demand for power transmission.

The technology also improves efficiency and reduces materials. The higher temperature can reduce material consumption. It can also optimise overall system efficiency. Depending on project needs, operators can prioritise different benefits. This adaptability makes the technology broadly applicable.

 

The Technical Advance

 

The improvement rests on an upgraded insulation system. The increased temperature builds on the company's technology platform. It is enabled by an upgrade to the insulation. This upgrade is central to the enhanced performance. It supports the higher operating temperature.

Specific components were redesigned for the advance. The inner and outer semiconductive layers were redesigned. These use a newly developed material. This material forms the core of the thermal improvement. It supports the long-term reliability of the system.

 

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The Material Partnership

 

The advance involved a key material collaboration. The new material was developed jointly with a partner. That partner is Borouge International, formerly Borealis. The collaboration produced a new semiconductive material. This was qualified as part of the joint project.

The partnership drew on specialised expertise. Borouge brings a track record in power transmission materials. It contributes innovation capabilities and technical expertise. The material qualification marks a milestone for both companies. It reflects a long-term collaboration between them.

 

Applications and Demand

 

The technology addresses several growing markets. It supports the demand for efficient HVDC systems. These systems serve offshore wind projects. Hybrid interconnectors also rely on such technology. Future cross-continent transmission lines are another application.

The technology can deploy within existing infrastructure. Company leadership highlighted this cost-efficiency benefit. It helps customers increase transmission capacity affordably. This can occur within existing HVDC infrastructure. This practical advantage broadens the technology's appeal.

 

Strategic Significance

 

The qualification strengthens the company's market position. It reinforces the company's role as a technology leader. This applies to the HVDC cable sector specifically. The advance supports high-performing transmission systems. These are increasingly in demand across the sector.

The technology portfolio now spans multiple applications. The 90-degree portfolio includes cables up to 525 kV. These serve both onshore and offshore installations. Power cable accessories are also included. This comprehensive range supports diverse transmission projects.