AC induced corrosion of low voltage power cables with aluminum conductors

Dutch distribution system operators realize that the low voltage grid is becoming increasingly relevant due to modern developments such as charging of electric cars and photo-voltaic cells on domestic rooftops. To get a better grip on the quality of their low voltage grids, a better understanding of degradation mechanisms influencing the quality of this grid is aimed for. One of the mechanisms contributing to premature failure of power cables is AC induced corrosion of their aluminum conductors. An experimental setup was realized and used to study the effect of the environmental parameters on the corrosion process. In particular, water conductivity and sensitivity to temperature were investigated. Different regimes for different ranges of conductivities were identified. An exponential relationship was found within one of the regimes and although the total charge transfer during the experiments varied widely, the total charge transfer during the positive cycles of the alternating current remained nearly constant.