Installing 132kV cables is significantly more complex and demanding than lower-voltage projects. The primary challenges stem from the physical properties of the cables and the critical need for absolute precision to ensure long-term reliability.

• Weight and Size: EHV cables are much larger and heavier than their lower-voltage counterparts. A single reel can weigh several tons, making manual handling impossible. This requires specialized cable drum trailers and hydraulic drum stands for safe transport and unspooling.

• Mechanical Stress Tolerance: The insulation of 132kV cables is highly sensitive to mechanical stress. Exceeding the pulling tension or bending radius can cause micro-fractures, which are invisible during installation but will lead to catastrophic failure over time.

• Thermal Management: These cables generate a substantial amount of heat. The trench design must ensure adequate heat dissipation to avoid thermal runaway. This includes using specialized backfill materials and maintaining a specific formation (e.g., flat formation with proper spacing).

• Splicing and Terminations: The joints and terminations are the weakest points of the entire system. They require highly skilled technicians and specialized tools to ensure a perfect, moisture-proof seal that can withstand the intense electrical stress of the voltage.