Study on Rapid Calculation and Graded Early Warning System for Conductor Temperature of 10 kV XLPE Cables

Accurate and rapid calculation for cable’s conductor temperature, coupled with timely alerts, is crucial for the safe and stable operation of cables. In this paper, we present a study on a rapid calculation and graded early warning system for conductor temperatures of 10 kV cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) cables, detailing the system architecture and graded warning strategy. Firstly, a coupled electric-thermal-fluid finite element model is established, which is used to determine the warning temperatures for the cable outer sheath. Secondly, a rapid calculation method for the conductor transient temperature is proposed, which is based on the superposition principle. Finally, the accuracy and practicality of this system are verified by actual monitoring data and finite element simulation. The results demonstrate that the system can accurately calculate transient conductor temperatures with error less than 1 °C and computation time less than 1 second, indicating significantly applicable value in engineering. Based on the system, accurate conductor temperature calculations and alerts can be made, providing a theoretical basis for operation and maintenance of urban distribution cable lines.