Technological Breakthroughs in Cross-Linked Polyethylene Insulated Cables and the Construction of Efficient Energy Transmission Systems

As global power systems upgrade towards higher efficiency, lighter weight, and longer life, cross-linked polyethylene insulated cables (XLPE cables), with their core advantages of excellent insulation performance, low-loss transmission, and strong environmental adaptability, have become a mainstream alternative to traditional oil-paper insulated cables. They not only support efficient energy transmission in urban power grids and renewable energy grid integration, but also provide key technical support for the construction of new power systems, earning them the title of "performance benchmark" in modern energy transmission systems.

XLPE cable's core competitiveness stems from breakthroughs in cross-linking and modification of its insulation material. By chemically or physically forming a three-dimensional network structure in polyethylene molecules, its insulation performance has achieved a quantum leap—its temperature resistance has been raised to over 90°C, its long-term operating field strength can reach 10kV/mm, and its dielectric loss is extremely low, reducing transmission losses by over 30% compared to oil-paper cables. From underground installations in 110kV urban main grids to power collection in 35kV renewable energy power plants, and even to rail transit traction power systems, XLPE cables, with their oil-free, maintenance-free, and flexible installation, are adaptable to all high and low voltage scenarios. They address the pain points of traditional cables, such as oil leakage and high maintenance costs, and ensure efficient and stable energy transmission.

With rising reliability and environmental requirements in power systems, the technological advancements in XLPE cables continue to deepen. On the material side, the development and application of water-tree-resistant XLPE materials significantly extend the cable's service life in humid environments, making it suitable for complex deployments such as coastal areas and underground pipeline corridors. On the structural side, the integrated design of the water-blocking layer and shielding layer effectively prevents insulation failure caused by moisture intrusion, enhancing operational safety. On the process side, breakthroughs in the continuous vulcanization production technology for ultra-high voltage XLPE cables have enabled the stable mass production of cables at voltage levels of 220kV and above, supporting the coordinated operation of ultra-high voltage power grids and distributed energy resources. From boosting energy efficiency under the "dual carbon" goals to supporting intelligent grid upgrades within the "new infrastructure" initiative, the strategic value of XLPE cables continues to grow. In the future, with the development of cutting-edge technologies like hydrogen pipeline transmission and flexible DC grids, XLPE cables will further push the boundaries between insulation performance and transmission capacity, becoming the core carrier connecting the entire chain of new power production, transmission, and consumption, laying a solid foundation for building a clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient modern energy transmission system.