How does soil thermal resistivity and ambient temperature affect the capacity of buried DC cables?

2025-08-14
Answer: The ampacity, or current-carrying capacity, of a buried DC cable is significantly influenced by its surrounding environment. Factors like soil thermal resistivity, moisture content, and ambient temperature directly impact the cable's ability to dissipate heat. Poor heat dissipation can cause the cable temperature to rise, which may compromise its insulation and reduce its lifespan. To address this, we consider these factors during the planning phase. Solutions may include using specialized backfill materials with low thermal resistivity or implementing cooling methods, such as water-circulating pipes, to optimize the cable's ampacity and ensure reliable performance.
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