Underground Cables Installed but Left Denergized

[duki]

Our construction people want to install 15kV feeders underground, direct buried and leave them for approximately 9 months untill the equipment arrives. The cables consist of corrgated aluminum armor with an outer PVC jacket. The cables would be stubbed out at both ends and sealed. They will be buried about 1500mm deep in a fine sand bed. By doing this the constructors will complete the civil work sooner. Anyone ever heard of any problems in doing this.

 

[busbar]

A perfect application for capped duct banks and pulling line.

 

[gordonl]

I've used cables which sat unenergized for several years in similar installations. But I would suggest you provide substantial mechanical protection where they exit the ground, particularly if it is a construction site. (IE concrete or heavy pipe guards)

 

[alehman]

I agree with busbar. Don't install the cables until you're ready to terminate them. If you must, leave them unterminated, leave several extra feet at each end and consult the manufacturer for instructions on sealing.

 

[davidbeach]

I too would strongly recommend empty duct banks rather than leaving unenergized cables sitting in the ground. But if you are going to go the cable route and if you are using aluminum conductors, specify a filled cable.