
What are the major pros and cons of using underground cables for power distribution?
2025-08-13As a leading manufacturer of both overhead and underground equipment, we understand the trade-offs.
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Pros:
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Aesthetics: No visual clutter, preserving natural landscapes and urban views.
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Reliability: Not exposed to severe weather, such as hurricanes or ice storms, which are common causes of power outages in overhead systems.
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Safety: Reduced risk of accidental contact with live wires and fewer hazards from fallen power lines.
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Space-Saving: Requires minimal above-ground space, which is ideal for dense urban areas.
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Cons:
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Higher Cost: Installation can be 5 to 10 times more expensive than overhead lines due to excavation and specialized cable requirements.
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Complex Maintenance: Locating and repairing faults is time-consuming and labor-intensive, often requiring specialized fault-locating tools and digging.
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Heat Dissipation: underground cables are not as efficient at dissipating heat as overhead lines, which can limit their capacity.
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Shorter Lifespan: While modern cables are durable, their lifespan can be affected by moisture ingress or damage during other construction projects.
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