After a detailed and extensive selection process, XLCC have appointed HIGHVOLT as the primary provider of test systems for the prequalification, type and routine testing of subsea cables. In addition, HIGHVOLT has been engaged to deliver a consultancy service and corresponding supply agreement for the equipment required to fulfil the testing program.
XLCC will be manufacturing HVDC cable for the renewable energy industry, initially from its first factory in Hunterston, Scotland. As a new entrant to the industry, XLCC will support the green industry in the UK and overseas by manufacturing HVDC subsea cables with aluminium conductors with insulation made of XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene). The cables will be used for interconnector projects to allow the transfer of electricity between countries’ transmission systems and other high-capacity connections with the initial order including four cables, each 3,800km long, as part of a 3.6GW HVDC subsea cable system for the Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project.
The consultancy service and corresponding supply agreement for the equipment required to fulfil the testing program includes the design of the facilities required for the electrical elements of the testing program, for the certification and the factory acceptance testing. The overall design, equipment and configuration will allow for future tests to be performed at even higher levels required than industry maximums today, future proofing the operation for decades to come.
“The requirements for testing production lengths (20 km) and delivery lengths (>100 km) are particularly exciting” says Mario Jochim, Regional Sales Manager at HIGHVOLT, “for the entire test setup, including the cable drums and the trackways, new solutions have to be sought regarding intelligent rewinding, safety aspects and the heating of the cable during the tests. Together with the client, the machine suppliers and our engineers, the best possible options are worked out.”
HIGHVOLT’s test systems will include variable frequency for AC testing of delivery length. The first lot of orders will be ready for dispatch in June and November 2022 and will be erected and commissioned in conjunction with the factory construction.
Alan Mathers, Director at XLCC commented, “XLCC’s aim is to provide the connectivity required for renewable power to meet future global energy needs. Working with our expert partners enables us to deliver a best-in-class service”.