Reference Information

Key information from reference documents and guides (e.g.) or succinct descriptions of concepts (e.g. what is risk and how do I visualize it)

Thermo-Mechanical Bending (TMB) Rig Extruded-dielectric underground transmission cables experience thermo-mechanical bending (TMB) during operation and daily load cycling. EPRI is investigating the impact of TMB on design, operation, and long-term performance of the extruded dielectric cables. One of the key facilities used in this analysis is the EPRI Full-Scale Thermo-Mechanical Bending/Aging Test Rig. The test rig is installed in the EPRI Laboratory in Charlotte, NC. Results from this test rig can be used in design, operation, and maintenance of such cable systems.

Mechanical Parameter Testing Extruded-dielectric underground transmission cables experience thermo-mechanical bending during operation and daily load cycling. EPRI is conducting research into their effects on the cables to aid in design of suitable cable constraint and support systems. The study is achieved first through measurements of mechanical parameters of various cable constructions, finite element analysis of the installed conditions, and then empirical verification by a full-scale test rig comprised of a length of full-sized duct. The results of the mechanical parameter tests are incorporated into finite element analysis theoretical models to assist in extruded-dielectric cable installations and designs and enhance operation and maintenance of such cable systems.

Mechanical Bending Rig Extruded-dielectric underground transmission cables experience thermo-mechanical bending during operation and daily load cycling. EPRI is conducting research into their effects on the cables to aid in design of suitable cable constraint and support systems. The study is achieved first through measurements of mechanical parameters of various cable constructions, finite element analysis of the installed conditions, and then empirical verification by a full-scale test rig comprised of a length of full-sized duct. The results of the mechanical parameter tests are incorporated into finite element analysis theoretical models to assist in extruded-dielectric cable installations and designs and enhance operation and maintenance of such cable systems.

List of Test Facilities

Test Facility Location
Extruded Cable Thermo-mechanical Charlotte
Extruded Cable Mechanical Parameter Lenox
Cable Mechanical Bending Charlotte
Sensor Research Charlotte
Magnetic Field Shielding Charlotte
Cable Failure Root Cause Charlotte

Description of each test facility (coming soon)


  • P36.001: Design, Construction, Ratings, and Operation and Maintenance of UT Systems
  • P36.002: Extruded Dielectric Cable Systems
  • P36.003: Laminar Dielectric Cable Systems
  • P36.006: Principles and Practices of Underground Transmission