Impact of harmonics presented at INMR Congress
Future challenges for cable accessories: key insights form INMR world congress
At the recent INMR World Congress in Tucson (U.S.), Lukasz Chmura, Product Development Engineer at Lovink Enertech, delivered a presentation on the future challenges of cable accessories in medium-voltage networks.
The three-day international conference, held every two years in a different country, focuses on overhead and underground power cables as well as substations. This year’s program placed special emphasis on critical components—particularly cable splices and terminations. Choosing the right components is essential for ensuring system reliability, reducing maintenance, and promoting operational safety.
The event featured over 100 technical papers presented by experts from utilities, universities, manufacturers, and testing laboratories worldwide.
Addressing harmonics and their impact
The growing integration of sustainable energy sources into the grid is increasing the presence of harmonics. To manage the flow of this energy, transmission controllers are used. These devices include high-frequency switching components, which introduce harmonics into the electricity grid.
Harmonics directly affect the performance of cable accessories. As a result, utility managers are paying closer attention to their long-term impact on infrastructure.
Key findings: geometric stress control
In his presentation, Lukasz Chmura explained how harmonics influence the reliability of medium-voltage cables, terminations, and transformers. He concluded that geometric stress control, even at elevated field strengths, helps prevent temperature rise. This makes it a more suitable solution for grids affected by harmonic pollution.
LoviSil®: cable splices built for today’s grid
Lovink has been using geometric stress control in its medium voltage cable splices for years. These splices also use liquid silicone as an insulating material. The liquid fills all internal voids in the splice, drastically reducing the risk of partial discharges.
This combination of geometric stress control and liquid insulation ensures greater long-term reliability—especially in energy networks experiencing rapid change.
