JDR to Launch New Aluminium Core Inter-Array Cable

JDR, a leading provider of technology connecting the global offshore energy industry, will demonstrate its ongoing investment in products and services to support the evolution of cost- effective offshore wind energy production at Global Offshore Wind 2014, launching a range of inter- array cables with aluminium conductor cores.

The new aluminium conductor core inter-array cable, which is XLPE insulated and type tested to IEC 60502-2 and CIGRE standards, is one of several JDR developments to support offshore wind cost- reduction targets.

JDR is also investigating opportunities to transfer JDR’s experience in oil and gas markets to offshore wind applications. Currently under review is the introduction of pre-terminated inter-array cables. This technology is standard in JDR’s subsea production umbilical products and could be used to reduce offshore termination costs for offshore wind operators.

JDR’s product development director, Jeremy Featherstone, who will talk about JDR’s cost-reduction work in the Global Offshore Wind conference session B10: Cost Reduction and Innovation: Reaching £100 per MWh, said: “JDR continues its DECC-supported work on high-voltage inter-array cables that will improve power capacity by increasing array cable voltage ratings from 33kV to 66kV. Our engineering team is also investigating: how dynamic ratings could reduce cable conductor sizes and subsequent material costs; and how strain sensing fibre optics can be used to minimise installation issues.”

Andrew Norman, JDR’s chief executive officer, commented: “Offshore wind is an increasingly important low-carbon contributor to the UK’s energy supply. JDR is committed to working with developers, installers and throughout the supply chain to create the products and services our industry needs to achieve its cost-reduction targets. The launch of our aluminium conductor core products and our work on high voltage 66kV inter-array cables, are important steps forwards in providing the tools and choices our industry needs to enable the long-term development of successful wind farm projects.

He continued: “Looking further ahead we continue to investigate how we can apply our experience in oil and gas markets for renewable developments. For example our experience of dynamic cable in deepwater offshore environments will be invaluable as operators look to launch floating turbines further offshore.”

JDR will be exhibiting at Global Offshore Wind, Glasgow, 11-12 June stand 106.