Ultrasonic degassing method and device for cable intermediate joint

Abstract

The invention discloses a cable intermediate joint ultrasonic degassing device, which comprises a degassing container, an ultrasonic degassing mechanism, a heating mechanism, a medium solution circulating mechanism and a vacuum mechanism, and is characterized in that the degassing container is used for accommodating a to-be-degassed intermediate joint and an ultrasonic medium solution; the ultrasonic degassing mechanism is connected with the degassing container so as to perform ultrasonic treatment on a to-be-degassed intermediate joint in the degassing container, and the heating mechanism is connected with the degassing container so as to perform heating treatment on an ultrasonic medium solution; the medium solution circulating mechanism is connected with the degassing container to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution, and the vacuum mechanism is connected with the degassing container to vacuumize the degassing container. According to the method, the removal efficiency of the cross-linked by-products can be improved, the degassing period is shortened, and the residual rate of the by-products is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of cable joint manufacturing technology, and in particular to a method and apparatus for ultrasonic degassing of cable joints. Background Technology

[0002] Cables, such as high-voltage submarine cables, require intermediate joints (factory joints) for connection. To ensure the consistency of electrical and mechanical properties between the intermediate joint and the cable body, traditional technology generally uses extrusion molding to prepare the intermediate joint. During the production process, due to the large thickness of the extruded insulation, it is difficult to efficiently remove cross-linking byproducts from the molding process using molds or degassing chambers. Excessive degassing time will significantly reduce the cable molding efficiency and extend the delivery cycle, while excessively high degassing temperature will cause the insulation layer of the intermediate joint to soften and deform due to heat. In addition, traditional technology is difficult to efficiently remove cross-linking byproducts from the molding process, resulting in residual cross-linking byproducts such as methane, acetophenone, cumyl alcohol, and α-methylstyrene remaining as impurities in the XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) insulation layer of the intermediate joint. Under the influence of the external high-voltage electric field during the operation of high-voltage submarine cables, impurities will dissociate to form positive and negative ion pairs, which will gradually migrate towards the electrodes of opposite polarity. This will eventually cause the XLPE insulation layer to accumulate opposite polarity space charges near the electrodes, resulting in local electric field distortion. In severe cases, it may even cause partial discharge and insulation breakdown, seriously threatening the operational safety of high-voltage submarine cables. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide an ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints that can quickly degas, shorten the degassing cycle, and improve the uniformity of degassing.

[0004] One embodiment of this application provides an ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints.

[0005] An ultrasonic degassing device for cable joints includes a degassing container, an ultrasonic degassing mechanism, a heating mechanism, a medium solution circulation mechanism, and a vacuum mechanism. The degassing container holds the joint to be treated and the ultrasonic medium solution. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism is connected to the degassing container to perform ultrasonic treatment on the joint within the container. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism generates high-frequency vibrations within the insulation layer of the cable joint through the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect, accelerating the outward diffusion rate of by-product molecules in the cross-linked polyethylene network structure to achieve rapid removal. The heating mechanism is connected to the degassing container to heat the ultrasonic medium solution. The medium solution circulation mechanism is connected to the degassing container to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution. The vacuum mechanism is connected to the degassing container to perform vacuum treatment on the container.

[0006] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism includes an ultrasonic generator, an ultrasonic transducer, an amplitude transformer, and a position adjuster. The ultrasonic generator is connected to the amplitude transformer via the ultrasonic transducer, and the position adjuster is connected to the amplitude transformer and installed in the degassing container. The position adjuster is used to adjust the position of the amplitude transformer.

[0007] In some embodiments, the position adjuster is one of a manual, pneumatic, or hydraulic position adjuster.

[0008] In some embodiments, the pneumatic position adjuster includes an air pump, an adjusting slide rail, and a locking device. The adjusting slide rail is mounted on the degassing container and is adjustable in the height direction of the degassing container. The amplitude rod is slidably connected to the adjusting slide rail. The air pump is connected to the amplitude rod to drive the amplitude rod to move. The locking device is connected to the amplitude rod to lock the amplitude rod after the position is adjusted.

[0009] In some embodiments, there are multiple ultrasonic degassing mechanisms, which are spaced apart in the degassing container.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heating mechanism includes a metal heating plug and a heating control assembly that are electrically connected to each other. The metal heating plug is connected to the degassing container, and the heating control assembly is used to control the start and stop of the metal heating plug.

[0011] In some embodiments, there are multiple heating mechanisms, which are spaced apart in the degassing container.

[0012] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device for the cable joint further includes a temperature measuring mechanism connected to the degassing container to detect the temperature inside the degassing container.

[0013] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring device includes a thermocouple connected to the degassing container to collect the temperature inside the degassing container.

[0014] In some embodiments, the thermocouples include, but are not limited to, type K, type T, and type S.

[0015] In some embodiments, the sampling frequency of the thermocouple is adjustable.

[0016] In some embodiments, the thermocouple sampling frequency is 0.1s / time to 10s / time.

[0017] In some embodiments, the temperature measurement range of the thermocouple is 25°C to 1000°C.

[0018] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device for the cable joint further includes a fixing mechanism, the degassing container is a cylindrical shape with openings at both ends, and the fixing mechanism is connected to the openings at both ends of the degassing container.

[0019] In some embodiments, the fixing mechanism includes an adjustable ring support structure, which includes two symmetrical arc-shaped units. Each arc-shaped unit has a connecting lug at both ends. The connecting lug has an elongated hole. The two arc-shaped units are detachably connected through two corresponding connecting lugs. Fasteners are inserted into the elongated holes of the connecting lugs to achieve adjustable connection of the arc-shaped units.

[0020] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device for the cable joint further includes a multi-channel recorder connected to the degassing container to record real-time temperature changes at multiple points within the degassing container.

[0021] In some embodiments, the recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder is adjustable.

[0022] In some embodiments, the recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder is 0.1s / time to 10s / time.

[0023] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device for the cable joint component further includes a control mechanism, wherein the ultrasonic degassing mechanism, the heating mechanism, the medium solution circulation mechanism, and the vacuum mechanism are electrically connected to the control mechanism.

[0024] One embodiment of this application provides an ultrasonic degassing method for cable intermediate joints.

[0025] An ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, employing the ultrasonic degassing device for cable joints described in any of the above embodiments, includes the following steps:

[0026] Place the intermediate connector to be degassed and the ultrasonic medium solution inside the degassed container;

[0027] The heating mechanism is controlled to heat the ultrasonic medium solution, and the medium solution circulation mechanism is controlled to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution.

[0028] The vacuum control mechanism is used to evacuate the degassing container.

[0029] Furthermore, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism is controlled to perform ultrasonic treatment on the intermediate joint to be degassed in the degassing container. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism generates high-frequency vibration in the insulation layer of the cable intermediate joint through the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect, which accelerates the outward diffusion rate of by-product molecules in the cross-linked polyethylene network structure, so as to achieve the purpose of rapid removal.

[0030] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints includes one or more of the following: silicone oil, high-temperature resistant oils such as hydraulic oil, trichloroethane solution, and dichloroethane solution.

[0031] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the vacuum level inside the degassing container is controlled to be 0.1 mbar to 10 mbar.

[0032] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the temperature of the ultrasonic medium solution is controlled to be 60°C to 90°C.

[0033] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the frequency of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism is controlled to be 15kHz~80kHz and the power is 20%~100%.

[0034] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism is controlled to adopt a continuous vibration mode.

[0035] The aforementioned ultrasonic degassing device for cable joint components can achieve ultrasonic degassing of cable joints, such as high-voltage submarine cables, thereby achieving efficient removal of by-products. Specifically, the ultrasonic degassing device for cable joints of this application utilizes the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect of ultrasonic waves from an ultrasonic generator to accelerate the outward diffusion rate of residual cross-linking by-product molecules such as methane, acetophenone, cumyl alcohol, and α-methylstyrene within the cross-linked polyethylene network structure, thereby achieving rapid removal and efficient degassing of the joint, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the cable joint. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals denote the same parts.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the ultrasonic degassing device for a cable intermediate joint according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism of the ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the heating mechanism of the ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the by-product residue rate under different degassing processes, namely, the ultrasonic degassing device for cable joints described in an embodiment of this application and the traditional oven degassing process;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram comparing the breakdown field strength of samples under different degassing processes, namely, the ultrasonic degassing device for cable joints described in an embodiment of this application and the traditional oven degassing process.

[0043] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0044] 10. Ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joint; 100. Ultrasonic degassing mechanism; 1001. Ultrasonic generator; 1002. Ultrasonic transducer; 1003. Amplitude bar; 1004. Position adjuster; 200. Heating mechanism; 2001. Metal heating plug; 2002. Heating control component; 300. Medium solution circulation mechanism; 400. Temperature measuring mechanism; 500. Fixing mechanism; 600. Vacuum mechanism; 700. Degassing container; 800. Control mechanism; 20. Intermediate joint to be degassed. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0046] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0047] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0049] In the description of this application, "several" means one or more, "multiple" means two or more, "greater than," "less than," and "exceeding" are understood to exclude the stated number, while "above," "below," and "within" are understood to include the stated number. The use of "first" and "second" in the description is merely for distinguishing technical features and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance, or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features, or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0050] In this document, "optionally," "optionally," and "optional" mean that something is optional, that is, it is selected from either "with" or "without." If multiple "options" appear in a technical solution, unless otherwise specified and there are no contradictions or mutual constraints, each "option" is independent. In this application, descriptions such as "optionally contains" and "optionally includes" indicate "contains or does not contain."

[0051] In this document, unless otherwise stated, the reaction steps may be performed in the order described herein or not. For example, other steps may be included between reaction steps, and the order of reaction steps may be appropriately interchanged. This is something that those skilled in the art can determine based on conventional knowledge and experience. Preferably, the reaction methods described herein are performed sequentially.

[0052] In this application, when numerical intervals (i.e., numerical ranges) are mentioned, unless otherwise specified, the distribution of selectable numerical values ​​within the numerical interval is considered continuous, and includes the two endpoints of the numerical interval (i.e., the minimum and maximum values), as well as every numerical value between these two endpoints. Unless otherwise specified, when a numerical interval refers only to integers within that numerical interval, it includes the two endpoint integers of the numerical range, as well as every integer between the two endpoints, which is equivalent to directly listing every integer. When multiple numerical ranges are provided to describe features or characteristics, these numerical ranges can be merged. In other words, unless otherwise specified, the numerical ranges disclosed in this application should be understood to include any and all subranges included therein. The "numerical value" in the numerical interval can be any quantitative value, such as a number, percentage, ratio, etc. The term "numerical interval" can be broadly included to include percentage intervals, ratio intervals, proportion intervals, etc.

[0053] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0054] This application provides an ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints to solve at least one of the following technical problems in conventional factory joints: (1) The removal of by-products from factory joints is mainly achieved by heating the mold or the outside of the degassing chamber. Due to the large insulation diameter of high-voltage submarine cable factory joints, this results in long degassing cycles and uneven degassing; (2) Conventional technology for preparing high-voltage submarine cable factory joints has low manufacturing efficiency and long delivery cycles; (3) Residual cross-linking by-products such as methane, acetophenone, cumyl alcohol, and α-methylstyrene during the molding process are free in the XLPE (cross-linked polyethylene) insulation layer of the factory joint as impurities. Under the action of the external high-voltage electric field during the operation of the high-voltage submarine cable, the impurities will dissociate to form positive and negative ion pairs, which will gradually migrate towards the electrodes of opposite polarity. This will eventually lead to the accumulation of opposite polarity space charges in the XLPE insulation layer near the electrodes, resulting in local electric field distortion. In severe cases, it may even cause partial discharge and insulation breakdown, seriously threatening the operational safety of the high-voltage submarine cable. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0055] The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable intermediate joints provided in one embodiment of this application is exemplary; please refer to [link to example]. Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints provided in one embodiment of this application. The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints of this application can be used for ultrasonic degassing of cable joints, such as high-voltage cable flexible joints, reducing the degassing cycle, reducing by-product residue, and improving degassing uniformity.

[0056] To more clearly illustrate the structure of the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0057] For example, please refer to Figure 1 As shown, an ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints includes a degassing container 700, an ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100, a heating mechanism 200, a medium solution circulation mechanism 300, and a vacuum mechanism 600. The degassing container 700 is used to contain the joint 20 to be treated and the ultrasonic medium solution. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 is connected to the degassing container 700 to perform ultrasonic treatment on the joint 20 within the degassing container 700. The heating mechanism 200 is connected to the degassing container 700 to heat the ultrasonic medium solution. The medium solution circulation mechanism 300 is connected to the degassing container 700 to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution. The vacuum mechanism 600 is connected to the degassing container 700 to perform vacuum treatment on the degassing container 700.

[0058] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 generates high-frequency vibrations within the insulation layer of the cable joint through the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect, accelerating the outward diffusion rate of by-product molecules in the cross-linked polyethylene network structure, thereby achieving rapid removal.

[0059] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 has a frequency of 40kHz to 80kHz, a power of 80% to 90%, and adopts a continuous vibration mode.

[0060] In some implementations, see Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 of an ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints according to an embodiment of this application. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 includes an ultrasonic generator 1001, an ultrasonic transducer 1002, an amplitude transformer 1003, and a position adjuster 1004. The ultrasonic generator 1001 is connected to the amplitude transformer 1003 via the ultrasonic transducer 1002. The position adjuster 1004 is connected to the amplitude transformer 1003 and installed in the degassing container 700. The position adjuster 1004 is used to adjust the position of the amplitude transformer 1003.

[0061] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic frequency of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 can be set according to actual needs.

[0062] In some embodiments, the position adjuster 1004 is one of a manual, pneumatic, or hydraulic position adjuster.

[0063] In one specific embodiment, the basic components of the pneumatic position adjuster include: a pneumatic input signal interface: receiving a standard pneumatic pressure signal (typically 20~100kPa or 3~15psi) from a control mechanism (such as a PLC); a comparison unit (error detection): comparing the input signal with the feedback signal to obtain a deviation signal; an amplification and control unit: driving the pneumatic actuator to move according to the magnitude and direction of the deviation signal; a feedback mechanism: detecting the actual position of the actuator and converting it into a pneumatic pressure signal to feed back to the comparison unit; and an actuator interface: outputting a pneumatic pressure signal to control the pneumatic actuator (such as a cylinder, pneumatic valve, etc.). The working principle of the pneumatic position adjuster is as follows: the set signal (input pneumatic pressure) and the feedback signal (pneumatic pressure corresponding to the actual position) are compared inside the pneumatic position adjuster. If a deviation exists, the pneumatic position adjuster will output a corresponding pneumatic pressure signal to drive the actuator to move according to the direction and magnitude of the deviation. The movement of the actuator drives the feedback mechanism, changing the feedback signal. When the feedback signal equals the set signal, the deviation is zero, the pneumatic position adjuster stops outputting changes, and the actuator remains at the target position.

[0064] In some embodiments, the pneumatic position adjuster 1004 includes an air pump, an adjusting slide rail, and a locking device. The adjusting slide rail is mounted on the degassing container 700 and is adjustable in the height direction of the degassing container 700. The amplitude rod 1003 is slidably connected to the adjusting slide rail. The air pump is connected to the amplitude rod 1003 to drive the amplitude rod 1003 to move. The locking device is connected to the amplitude rod 1003 to lock the amplitude rod 1003 after position adjustment.

[0065] In some embodiments, there are multiple ultrasonic degassing mechanisms 100. These multiple ultrasonic degassing mechanisms 100 are spaced apart within the degassing container 700.

[0066] In some implementations, see Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the heating mechanism 200 of the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints according to an embodiment of this application. The heating mechanism 200 includes a metal heating plug 2001 and a heating control component 2002 that are electrically connected to each other. The metal heating plug 2001 is connected to the degassing container 700, and the heating control component 2002 is used to control the start and stop of the metal heating plug 2001.

[0067] In some embodiments, there are multiple heating mechanisms 200. These multiple heating mechanisms 200 are spaced apart within the degassing container 700.

[0068] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints also includes a temperature measuring mechanism. The temperature measuring mechanism is connected to the degassing container 700 to detect the temperature inside the degassing container 700.

[0069] In some embodiments, the temperature measuring device includes a thermocouple. The thermocouple is connected to the degassing container 700 to collect the temperature inside the degassing container 700.

[0070] In some implementations, the thermocouple types include, but are not limited to, type K, type T, and type S.

[0071] In some of these implementations, the thermocouple sampling frequency is adjustable.

[0072] In some embodiments, the thermocouple sampling frequency is 0.1 s / time to 10 s / time. The sampling frequency of the thermocouple includes, but is not limited to: 0.1 s / time, 0.5 s / time, 1 s / time, 2 s / time, 4 s / time, 5 s / time, 8 s / time, 9 s / time, 10 s / time, or any range between the foregoing.

[0073] In some embodiments, the temperature measurement range of the thermocouple is 25°C to 1000°C.

[0074] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints further includes a fixing mechanism 500. The degassing container 700 is cylindrical with openings at both ends, and the fixing mechanisms 500 are respectively connected to the openings at both ends of the degassing container 700.

[0075] In some embodiments, the fixing mechanism 500 includes an adjustable annular support structure. The adjustable annular support structure includes two symmetrical arc-shaped units, each with a connecting lug plate at both ends. The connecting lug plates have elongated holes. The two arc-shaped units are detachably connected via corresponding connecting lug plates. Fasteners pass through the elongated holes in the connecting lug plates to achieve adjustable connection of the arc-shaped units. Each arc-shaped unit has a connecting lug plate made of metal welded to both ends, and the connecting lug plates are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the arc-shaped unit. The two ends of the two arc-shaped units correspond to each other and are detachably connected via corresponding connecting lug plates and fasteners such as bolts. Elongated holes, i.e., slotted holes, are formed on the connecting lug plates, through which bolts pass to achieve adjustable connection of the two arc-shaped units.

[0076] In some embodiments, a scale mark is provided next to the elongated hole of the connecting ear plate, dividing the adjustment stroke of the elongated hole into several adjustment levels according to the bolt pitch, with each level corresponding to a specific number of bolt tightening turns. A linkage mechanism is then used to ensure that the two ends of the arc-shaped unit move synchronously during adjustment, controlling the eccentricity. This application can achieve quantitative adjustment control of the adjustable ring support structure by pre-setting the correspondence between the number of bolt tightening turns and the adjustment amount of the arc-shaped unit.

[0077] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints also includes a multi-channel recorder. The multi-channel recorder is connected to the degassing container 700 to record real-time temperature changes at multiple points within the container. A multi-channel recorder is an instrument with multiple input channels capable of simultaneously acquiring, recording, and displaying multiple analog or digital signals. The multi-channel recorder is not shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0078] In some implementations, the recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder is adjustable.

[0079] In some embodiments, the recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder is 0.1s / time to 10s / time. The recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder includes, but is not limited to: 0.1s / time, 0.5s / time, 1s / time, 2s / time, 4s / time, 5s / time, 8s / time, 9s / time, 10s / time, or any range between the foregoing.

[0080] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints further includes a control mechanism 800, and the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100, the heating mechanism 200, the medium solution circulation mechanism 300, the vacuum mechanism 600, the heating mechanism 200, and the temperature measuring mechanism are electrically connected to the control mechanism 800.

[0081] In some embodiments, the control mechanism 800 includes a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).

[0082] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic medium solution includes one of the following: silicone oil, high-temperature resistant oil such as hydraulic oil, trichloroethane solution, or dichloroethane solution.

[0083] In some embodiments, the shape and size of the degassing container 700 can be set according to the size of the intermediate connector.

[0084] One embodiment of this application provides an ultrasonic degassing method for cable intermediate joints.

[0085] A method for ultrasonic degassing of cable joints, using the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints described in any of the above embodiments, includes the following steps:

[0086] Place the intermediate connector 20 to be degassed and the ultrasonic medium solution into the degassed container 700;

[0087] The heating mechanism 200 is used to heat the ultrasonic medium solution, and the medium solution circulation mechanism 300 is connected to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution.

[0088] The vacuum control mechanism 600 performs vacuuming on the degassing container 700.

[0089] Furthermore, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 is controlled to perform ultrasonic treatment on the intermediate joint 20 to be degassed in the degassing container 700. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 generates high-frequency vibration in the insulation layer of the cable intermediate joint through the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect, which accelerates the outward diffusion speed of by-product molecules in the cross-linked polyethylene network structure, so as to achieve the purpose of rapid removal.

[0090] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints includes one or more of the following: silicone oil, high-temperature resistant oils such as hydraulic oil, trichloroethane solution, and dichloroethane solution.

[0091] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the vacuum level inside the degassing container 700 is controlled to be between 0.1 mbar and 10 mbar. For example, the value of the vacuum level inside the degassing container 700 includes, but is not limited to: 0.1 mbar, 0.5 mbar, 1 mbar, 2 mbar, 3 mbar, 4 mbar, 5 mbar, 6 mbar, 7 mbar, 8 mbar, 9 mbar, 10 mbar, or any range between the foregoing.

[0092] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the temperature of the ultrasonic medium solution is controlled to be between 60°C and 90°C. For example, the temperature of the ultrasonic medium solution may be controlled to be, but is not limited to, 60°C, 65°C, 70°C, 75°C, 80°C, 85°C, 90°C, or any range between the foregoing.

[0093] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the frequency of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 is controlled to be 15kHz~80kHz and the power is 20%~100%.

[0094] Optionally, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable intermediate joints, the frequency of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 is controlled to be 40kHz~60kHz, and the power is 40%~80%.

[0095] For example, the frequency of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 can be controlled in values ​​including, but not limited to, 15kHz, 20kHz, 25kHz, 30kHz, 35kHz, 40kHz, 45kHz, 50kHz, 55kHz, 60kHz, 65kHz, 70kHz, 75kHz, 80kHz, or any range between the two aforementioned values. The power of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 can be controlled in values ​​including, but not limited to, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, or any range between the two aforementioned values.

[0096] In some embodiments, in the ultrasonic degassing method for cable joints, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism 100 is controlled to adopt a continuous vibration mode.

[0097] Example 1

[0098] Example 1 by Figure 1 The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints shown in the illustration performs ultrasonic degassing on the sample, and compares it with the traditional oven degassing method to analyze the effectiveness of the ultrasonic degassing process of this application. The sample in Example 1 is a high-pressure polyethylene ultra-clean insulation material, prepared by compression molding and vulcanization. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the byproduct content of the undegassed sample is as high as about 0.52%.

[0099] The vacuum level inside the degassing container 700 is 1 mbar, and the temperature is controlled at 70°C. The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for the cable intermediate joint component has an ultrasonic frequency of 40 kHz, a power of 90%, and adopts a continuous vibration mode to maintain the same temperature level (70°C) as the oven degassing.

[0100] Comparative Example 1

[0101] Comparative Example 1 provides an oven for degassing the sample. The sample is high-pressure polyethylene ultra-clean insulation material, which is prepared by compression molding and vulcanization. The sample is the same as that in Example 1. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the byproduct content of the undegassed sample is as high as about 0.52%.

[0102] During the degassing process in the oven, the oven temperature should be controlled at 70℃.

[0103] A comparison of the experiments in Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 shows that thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the byproduct content in the undegassed sample was as high as approximately 0.52%. After degassing in an oven for 12 hours, the byproduct content decreased to 0.14%. (See also...) Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the byproduct residue rates under different degassing processes, namely, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joint components according to an embodiment of this application and the traditional oven degassing process. Figure 4It is known that after 6 hours and 12 hours of ultrasonic degassing using the cable joint ultrasonic degassing device 10 of this application, the by-product contents were 0.18% and 0.08%, respectively. See also... Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 This diagram illustrates a comparison of the breakdown field strength of samples degassed using the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints according to an embodiment of this application, and under different degassing processes using a conventional oven. Breakdown test analysis shows that the breakdown field strength of the samples degassed using the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints in this application is not significantly different from that degassed using a conventional oven, remaining approximately 370~390 kV / mm. From the above results, it can be concluded that the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints in this application can effectively improve the removal efficiency of by-products and reduce the residual rate of by-products.

[0104] Comparative Example 2

[0105] This comparative example passed Figure 1 The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable intermediate joints shown in the figure was used to perform ultrasonic degassing on the samples. The effect of the ultrasonic degassing process was analyzed. The sample in the comparative example was high-pressure polyethylene ultra-clean insulation material, which was prepared by molding and vulcanization. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the by-product content of the undegassed sample was as high as about 0.52%.

[0106] This comparative example is basically the same as the example, except that the vacuum degree inside the degassing container 700 in this comparative example is 0.05 mbar, which means that the vacuum degree inside the degassing container 700 in this comparative example is too small.

[0107] After ultrasonic degassing for 6 and 12 hours, the byproduct contents were 0.19% and 0.09%, respectively.

[0108] Comparative Example 3

[0109] This comparative example passed Figure 1 The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable intermediate joints shown in the figure was used to perform ultrasonic degassing on the samples. The effect of the ultrasonic degassing process was analyzed. The sample in the comparative example was high-pressure polyethylene ultra-clean insulation material, which was prepared by molding and vulcanization. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the by-product content of the undegassed sample was as high as about 0.52%.

[0110] This comparative example is basically the same as the embodiment. The difference from embodiment 1 is that in this comparative example, the ultrasonic frequency of the ultrasonic degassing device 10 is 5kHz and the power is 15%, that is, the ultrasonic frequency and power in the degassing container 700 of this comparative example are too small.

[0111] After ultrasonic degassing for 6 and 12 hours, the byproduct contents were 0.22% and 0.13%, respectively.

[0112] Comparative Example 4

[0113] This comparative example passed Figure 1 The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable intermediate joints shown in the figure was used to perform ultrasonic degassing on the samples. The effect of the ultrasonic degassing process was analyzed. The sample in the comparative example was high-pressure polyethylene ultra-clean insulation material, which was prepared by molding and vulcanization. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the by-product content of the undegassed sample was as high as about 0.52%.

[0114] This comparative example is basically the same as the embodiment. The difference from embodiment 1 is that in this comparative example, the ultrasonic frequency of the ultrasonic degassing device 10 is 100kHz and the power is 100%, that is, the ultrasonic frequency in the degassing container 700 of this comparative example is too high.

[0115] After ultrasonic degassing for 6 and 12 hours, the byproduct content was 0.18% and 0.08%, respectively. In Comparative Example 4, after ultrasonic degassing for 6 and 12 hours, the byproduct content was 0.18% and 0.08%, respectively. It can be seen that excessively high ultrasonic frequencies do not further reduce the byproduct content inside the intermediate joint, as it has reached equilibrium. However, this consumes too much energy, resulting in higher costs, which is not conducive to cost reduction and efficiency improvement.

[0116] Comparative Example 5

[0117] This comparative example passed Figure 1 The ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable intermediate joints shown in the figure was used to perform ultrasonic degassing on the samples. The effect of the ultrasonic degassing process was analyzed. The sample in the comparative example was high-pressure polyethylene ultra-clean insulation material, which was prepared by molding and vulcanization. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the by-product content of the undegassed sample was as high as about 0.52%.

[0118] This comparative example is basically the same as the embodiment. The difference from embodiment 1 is that in this comparative example, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 adopts an intermittent vibration mode, that is, a non-continuous vibration mode.

[0119] After ultrasonic degassing for 6 and 12 hours, the byproduct contents were 0.21% and 0.1%, respectively.

[0120] In summary, the aforementioned ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints can achieve rapid degassing of cable joints, such as high-voltage submarine cables, thereby achieving efficient removal of by-products. Specifically, the ultrasonic degassing device 10 for cable joints of this application utilizes the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect of the ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic generator 1001 to accelerate the outward diffusion rate of residual cross-linking by-product molecules such as methane, acetophenone, cumyl alcohol, and α-methylstyrene within the cross-linked polyethylene network structure, thereby achieving rapid removal, efficient degassing of the joint, reducing by-product residue, and ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the cable joint.

[0121] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0122] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0123] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints, characterized in that, The device includes a degassing container, an ultrasonic degassing mechanism, a heating mechanism, a medium solution circulation mechanism, and a vacuum mechanism. The degassing container is used to hold the intermediate joint to be degassed and the ultrasonic medium solution. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism is connected to the degassing container to perform ultrasonic treatment on the intermediate joint to be degassed within the degassing container. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism generates high-frequency vibrations within the insulation layer of the cable intermediate joint through the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect, accelerating the outward diffusion rate of by-product molecules in the cross-linked polyethylene network structure to achieve rapid removal. The heating mechanism is connected to the degassing container to heat the ultrasonic medium solution. The medium solution circulation mechanism is connected to the degassing container to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution. The vacuum mechanism is connected to the degassing container to perform vacuum treatment on the degassing container.

2. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing mechanism includes an ultrasonic generator, an ultrasonic transducer, an amplitude transformer, and a position adjuster. The ultrasonic generator is connected to the amplitude transformer through the ultrasonic transducer. The position adjuster is connected to the amplitude transformer and installed in the degassing container. The position adjuster is used to adjust the position of the amplitude transformer.

3. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to claim 2, characterized in that, The position adjuster is one of manual, pneumatic, or hydraulic position adjusters; Optionally, the pneumatic position adjuster includes an air pump, an adjusting slide rail, and a locking device. The adjusting slide rail is installed on the degassing container and is adjustable in the height direction of the degassing container. The amplitude rod is slidably connected to the adjusting slide rail. The air pump is connected to the amplitude rod to drive the amplitude rod to move. The locking device is connected to the amplitude rod to lock the amplitude rod after the position is adjusted.

4. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing mechanism is a plurality of units, which are distributed at intervals in the degassing container.

5. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The heating mechanism includes a metal heating plug and a heating control component that are electrically connected to each other. The metal heating plug is connected to the degassing container, and the heating control component is used to control the start and stop of the metal heating plug. Optionally, there may be multiple heating mechanisms, which are spaced apart in the degassing container.

6. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing device for the cable intermediate joint also includes a temperature measuring mechanism, which is connected to the degassing container to detect the temperature inside the degassing container; Optionally, the temperature measuring mechanism includes a thermocouple connected to the degassing container to collect the temperature inside the degassing container; Further optionally, the thermocouples may be of types including, but not limited to, type K, type T, and type S; Further optionally, the sampling frequency of the thermocouple is adjustable; Further optionally, the thermocouple sampling frequency is 0.1s / time to 10s / time; Further optionally, the temperature measurement range of the thermocouple is 25℃~1000℃.

7. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing device for the cable intermediate joint also includes a fixing mechanism. The degassing container is a cylindrical shape with openings at both ends, and the fixing mechanism is connected to the openings at both ends of the degassing container. Optionally, the fixing mechanism includes an adjustable ring support structure, which includes two symmetrical arc-shaped units. Each end of the arc-shaped unit is connected to a connecting lug plate, and the connecting lug plate is provided with an elongated hole. The two arc-shaped units are detachably connected through two corresponding connecting lug plates. Fasteners are inserted into the elongated holes of the connecting lug plates to achieve adjustable connection of the arc-shaped units.

8. The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing device for the cable intermediate joint also meets at least one of the following conditions: (1) The ultrasonic degassing device for the cable intermediate joint component also includes a multi-channel recorder, which is connected to the degassing container to record the real-time temperature changes at multiple points in the degassing container; Optionally, the recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder is adjustable; Optionally, the recording frequency of the multi-channel recorder is 0.1s / time to 10s / time; (2) The ultrasonic degassing device for the cable intermediate joint also includes a control mechanism, and the ultrasonic degassing mechanism, heating mechanism, medium solution circulation mechanism and vacuum mechanism are electrically connected to the control mechanism respectively.

9. A method for ultrasonic degassing of cable joints, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing device for cable intermediate joints according to any one of claims 1 to 8 includes the following steps: Place the intermediate connector to be degassed and the ultrasonic medium solution inside the degassed container; The heating mechanism is controlled to heat the ultrasonic medium solution, and the medium solution circulation mechanism is controlled to circulate the ultrasonic medium solution. The vacuum control mechanism is used to evacuate the degassing container. Furthermore, the ultrasonic degassing mechanism is controlled to perform ultrasonic treatment on the intermediate joint to be degassed in the degassing container. The ultrasonic degassing mechanism generates high-frequency vibration in the insulation layer of the cable intermediate joint through the ultrasonic cavitation jet impact effect, which accelerates the outward diffusion rate of by-product molecules in the cross-linked polyethylene network structure, so as to achieve the purpose of rapid removal.

10. The ultrasonic degassing method for cable intermediate joints according to claim 9, characterized in that, The ultrasonic degassing method for cable intermediate joints also satisfies at least one of the following conditions: (1) The ultrasonic medium solution includes one or more of the following: silicone oil, hydraulic oil and other high-temperature resistant oils, trichloroethane solution and dichloroethane solution; (2) Control the vacuum level inside the degassing container to be 0.1 mbar to 10 mbar; (3) The temperature of the ultrasonic medium solution is controlled to be 60℃~90℃; (4) The frequency of the ultrasonic degassing mechanism is controlled to be 15kHz~80kHz, and the power is 20%~100%; (5) Control the ultrasonic degassing mechanism to adopt a continuous vibration mode.

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