The test installation involves the installation of sections of heating cable, designed to emit heat to match the anticipated losses on the HVDC cable circuit. There are four sections of cable, each installed using different installation methods to allow comparisons to be made. In addition, there are two control sections where the ground has been disturbed but no cable installed.
The Scottish Agricultural College have been employed to monitor the effect on the soil and flora. ABB Power Technologies have been employed to provide the necessary heating cable, temperature sensors and expertise in calculating the thermal resistivity.
The project aims are: