Warning on overhead service line degradation
Please be aware of the potential hazard of unexpected insulation degradation on overhead service line XLPE active cables.
The cables are identified with a red stripe and the degradation is occurring along the red stripe as recently discovered by a Queensland electricity provider (pictured).
The red pigmented stripe cable was tested and did not have exposed conductors and passed the insulation resistance test, but it failed the thickness and high voltage tests.
The provider is replacing the affected overhead service lines, but procurement records were unable to establish the cable’s brand, manufacturer, manufacture year or batch number.
Any suspect cables should be reported to the network owner.
Image: degradation of red strip on overhead service line XLPE active cables