Advancing HVDC Cable Modelling: EasyDC-FOS Workshop at Nexans

In November, the EasyDC-FOS project partners gathered at Nexans’ facilities in Norway for a workshop focused on aligning strategies for HVDC cable modelling. The meeting provided an opportunity to review progress, discuss technical challenges, and ensure a common understanding of key modelling approaches.

The EasyDC-FOS project team came together at Nexans’ state-of-the-art facilities in Norway for a technical workshop dedicated to the modelling activities within the project. The event served as a crucial moment for partners to assess the current status of their models, exchange insights, and establish a shared vision for the next stages of development. By fostering close collaboration, the workshop aimed to strengthen the foundation for accurate and reliable modelling of HVDC cables.

At this initial phase of the project, partners are engaged in an in-depth review of the state of the art in HVDC cable modelling, particularly in the areas of space charge dynamics and thermal behaviour. Discussions focused on defining clear specifications, data requirements, and boundary conditions to guide future work. One of the key objectives was to align on the fundamental principles of the models, including software tools, input parameters, and calibration strategies. Ensuring a common approach is essential for achieving consistent and comparable results across the consortium.

A significant part of the workshop was dedicated to reviewing existing models developed by project partners. By analysing their methodologies, strengths, and potential gaps, the team worked towards refining the modelling framework. The discussion also touched on the challenges associated with model calibration, particularly in space charge modelling, where scaling factors and validation methods play a critical role. Similarly, for thermal models, obtaining accurate material resistivity and conductivity data was highlighted as a key aspect influencing model accuracy. Addressing these challenges early in the project will contribute to more robust and predictive models.
In addition to the technical sessions, the workshop included a guided tour of Nexans’ advanced manufacturing facilities. This visit provided valuable insights into the production and testing processes of a leading high-voltage cable manufacturer, offering a practical perspective that complements the theoretical modelling work.

Workshops like this play a vital role in strengthening collaboration within the consortium, consolidating progress, and aligning all partners towards the shared objectives of the project. By establishing a common framework for HVDC cable modelling, the EasyDC-FOS team is paving the way for the development of next-generation high-performance cables, supporting the transition to a more efficient and resilient energy infrastructure.