The invention of electricity has brought tremendous benefits to humanity. It not only makes our lives more convenient and colorful, but also drives the development of various industries. Wires and cables, as the means of transmitting electrical energy, are essential components. Once they deteriorate, they can significantly impact people's lives and work.
Causes of Wire and Cable Aging
1. Long-term Overload Operation
During overload operation, the thermal effect of the load current passing through the cable inevitably causes the conductor to heat up. Furthermore, the skin effect of the charge, eddy current losses in the steel armor, and dielectric losses also generate additional heat, raising the cable temperature.
2. Environment and Temperature
The external environment and heat sources to which the cable is exposed can also cause excessive cable temperatures, leading to insulation breakdown, and even explosions and fires.
3. External Damage
According to recent operational analysis, a significant number of cable failures are caused by mechanical damage.
4. Moisture in the Insulation
This typically occurs at cable joints in direct buried cables or exhaust ducts. Over time, water dendrites form under the influence of the electric field, gradually weakening the cable's insulation strength and causing failure.
5. Cable Connector Failure
Cable connectors are the weak link in cable lines and often result from human error (poor construction).
Precautions for Handling Wires and Cables
1. Protect cables from moisture, heat, corrosion, or damage.
2. Inspect cables after a certain period of use and replace any defects promptly.
3. Do not overload cables.
4. Regularly check the electrical and wiring conditions in your home and perform maintenance and repairs promptly.
6. For wiring in older buildings that is flooded or wet, especially if it has aged due to long-term disrepair, call an electrician immediately for repairs.
7. For wiring that is easily flooded, call an electrician to relocate it, install elevated cables, and take measures to prevent moisture.
8. If a power outage occurs during rainy weather, immediately shut off the power, have an electrician investigate the cause, and assign someone to maintain the system.
Once wires and cables age, they will increase power consumption. More seriously, if the outer insulation sheath is damaged, it will not only increase line loss and power consumption, but also cause circuit fires, and need to be replaced in time to avoid accidents. Therefore, when we usually choose wires at home, we should not only consider the quality of the wires, but also pay attention to the repair and maintenance of the wires in the later use.
