EASTERN ELECTRICITY

THE SITUATION

Regional operator Eastern Electricity seeks the most appropriate cabling technology, not only for commercial reasons, but also to meet the company's stringent environmental targets. The jointing of underground cables is an issue where particular care is required, especially where new-style cables are linked to old, fluid-filled cables by means of transition joints. Additionally, the company needs to minimise repair and renewal costs which are highest in urban locations.

THE SOLUTION

Elmeridge Cables Limited represents Ericsson Cables AB's Power Cables division in the U.K. and was appointed by Eastern Electricity to harness the resources of the Swedish cabling leader. Elmeridge analysed the opportunity to re-engineer a new, compact transition joint which enables smaller and cheaper modern polymeric cables to be linked with existing fluid-filled cables.

Briefed and supervised by an Elmeridge director, Ericsson manufactured and type tested a completely redesigned joint, one third of the original size, operating at 33,000 volts. Elmeridge also arranged training and fast component supply.

THE RESULT

Eastern Electricity's Asset Support Engineer responsible for the project has been able to meet both environmental and operational objectives. The security of the new transition joints prevents oil leaking from hydraulic cables, and their reusability has given Eastern Electricity more control over their cable replacement process - whether dictated by financial or local authority decision factors. The accessories are now successfully installed throughout the company's regional network. The engineer comments: "Elmeridge listen to the customer and then apply an intelligent solution based on diagnostic assessment and tailored resources".