In 2018 ORE Catapult formed a collaboration with UK subsea power cable jointing experts, Power CSL, and Innovate UK. The partnership set out to create a new cable test methodology enabling the type test of a 245kV universal repair joint – one of the largest tests of its kind performed to date demonstrating not only the capability ORE catapult possess but also our ongoing commitment to supporting SME’s.
As a result of the collaboration, ORE Catapult developed tensile and handling testing on this IUK-funded project to allow preparation and build of the test sample, mechanical preconditioning, electrical and materials type testing to be carried out on site in our facilities in Blyth.
The tensile and handling testing carried out this project has since been improved by utilising the ORE Catapult’s mechanical blade and nacelle test halls, resulting in a more controllable test environment. We have been accredited by UKAS under ISO/IEC 17025 (Laboratory reference 2769) to perform these mechanical and a suite of non-electrical type tests on cable systems. These additions compliment the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation already in place for the high voltage test activities.
ORE Catapult’s high voltage expertise, facilities and adaptability to undertake such a large test to IEC and CIGRE recommendations has enabled Power CSL to bring a highly innovative cable jointing design to both UK and overseas offshore wind markets – providing a highly adaptable product with rapid installation whilst supporting cost reduction and more efficient maintenance procedures offshore.
The collaboration demonstrates UK capability and strength in the design, manufacture, test and development of critical electrical infrastructure. As a result, Power CSL has been able to expand its established repair joint range by the inclusion of this new product which covers repair of 220kV AC export cables utilised in more recent large offshore wind project developments. It is anticipated that over time the introduction of this new product will result in business growth both in terms of sales revenue and employee numbers.
