EDS HV Group has carried out a cable testing campaign for Vattenfall at the Horns Rev 1 offshore wind farm in Denmark after the project had experienced network issues.
EDS used Damped AC testing (DAC) to collect partial discharge (PD) and tanδ data to interpret the condition of the inter-array cables and subject the entire system to a high voltage withstand test.
According to the company, this is the first time DAC was used in the industry and it enabled all inter-array cables to be tested from one single point on the offshore platform in accordance with IEC standards.
This also avoided multiple transfers of equipment and personnel, which enabled Vattenfall to re-energize the network safely, EDS said.
“Damped AC testing is a real step change in the industry. VLF testing has been the “go-to” test system to-date. However, despite VLF’s advantages, it doesn’t have the benefits offered by DAC to test long lengths of array cables through multiple switchgear positions and collect PD and tanδ data, all from a single point,” said Luke Bishop , Group Engineering Director at EDS.
“Due to excellent collaboration between EDS, Vattenfall and technology suppliers Onsite HV/EMT, we completed the campaign efficiently and successfully. We look forward to further establishing DAC testing on IACs and export cables within the renewables industry.”
Horns Rev 1 comprises 80 2MW turbines located off Jutland’s southwestern coast at Blåvandshuk. The 160MW offshore wind farm has been operational since 2002.