Cable faults

A cable fault is when the insulation of a power cable deteriorates enough that it's no longer able to contain the voltage, causing a short.

When the lights go out unexpectedly, everyone wants to know: what happened?

There are many causes of power outages, with weather and cable faults being, by far, the two most common. So what exactly is a "cable fault"? We asked Cableman Jeff.

What's a cable fault?

A cable fault is when the insulation of a power cable deteriorates enough that it's no longer able to contain the voltage, causing a short.

Basically, it's a hole, or a crack, burning through the cable.

What causes a cable fault?

Moisture, grit and/or contamination make a crack in the cable insulation, and the crack gradually grows close enough to the core to create a short
Normal aging
Accelerated aging (e.g. due to environmental stresses), which may lead to issues such as overheating
Corrosion of the cable-protected insulation
Degradation of the cable insulation
Third-party damage (e.g. someone damaging a cable during excavation work)

How do we find cable faults?

Faults are easily identifiable on aerial wires, but what about on cables buried three feet underground?

A two-man crew uses a special vehicle — the only one in the EPCOR fleet — called a fault locator truck (a.k.a. the "thumper truck") to pinpoint where a cable fault is underground.

Disclaimer

This webpage provides information regarding safe work practices in relation to EPCOR power facilities. Employers and contractors have responsibilities under the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety (Alberta OHS) Act, Code, and Regulation. When there is a conflict between this document and any bylaws, legislation, or regulation, the relevant law prevails. Any reliance placed on this information is strictly at your own risk. EPCOR does not assume any responsibility or liability for any action, loss or damage that arises out of, or is in connection with the information contained in this webpage.

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