Roll out Lovink Cable Splices in Italy
As a grid operator, ensuring the reliability of the medium voltage network is a top priority. But rising global temperatures and shifting soil conditions are adding complexity to this task. An Italian grid operator faced these exact challenges when an unexpected surge in medium voltage cable splice failures occured.
The climate crisis hits underground medium voltage cable splices
During the summers of 2015 and 2017, the operator reported a fourfold increase in underground MV cable joint failures compared to annual averages. The cause? Not immediatly clear. But what was clear: urgent action was needed.
Investigating MV splice failures
In collaboration with the University of Rome “La Sapienza,” the grid operator conducted an in-depth study into the root causes of 66 medium voltage splices, including both failed and functional samples. The analysis revealed three key contributing factors:
• Overheating due to high ambient temperatures
• Installation errors, often linked to traditional heat shrink joints
• Environmental impact, such as water ingress and water treeing
The findings underscored a major takeaway: existing medium voltage splices needed to evolve. Improved materials and simplified installation processes were critical to future-proof the underground distribution network.
LoviSil®: a medium voltage splice kit engineerd for harsh conditions
This is were Lovink’s LoviSil® medium voltage splice kit came into the picture. Built on liquid insulation technology, LoviSil® cable splices are engineerd for durability in even the most demanding conditions – a fact already proven in water-logged regions like Venice.
When Lovink’s team discussed medium voltage splicing under climate stress with the operator, the benefits of LoviSil® became clear.
Why LoviSil® joints outperforms traditional heat shrink technology
✅ High temperature and partial discharge resistance – Helps reduce failure during heatwaves
✅ Superior moisture resistance – Tested under 2 bar water pressure, ideal for wet soils
✅ Simple, flame free installation – Reduces the chance of installation errors, making it safer and more reliable.
Compared to conventional medium voltage cable splices and techniques like heat shrink, LoviSil® provides a major leap forward in performance and ease-of-use.
From pilot testing to nationwide rollout
Two pilot installations using LoviSil® transition splices were completed in 2023 in Livorno and Naples. After thorough analysis by the operator’s Asset Management and Innovation departments, the verdict was unanimous: LoviSil® exceede expectations.
Now, the grid operator is rolling out ‘experimental’ LoviSil® splices across 12 locations in Italy. These installations include comprehensive medium voltage splicing training session in partnership with Heading Srl. Early feedback from splicers highlighted the ease and safety of the installation process.
Elevating the standards of MV cable jointing
As medium voltage cable joints face new challenges, so must the solutions evolve. LoviSil® sets a new benchmark in the medium voltage joints market, especially in regions prone to heat and moisture stress. LoviSil® splices offer unmatched performance combined with ease of use, it’s not just a splice, it’s a smarter furture for grid reliability.
