Tin Water Barrier Sheath for Moisture-Resistant Power Cables
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power cables use lead as a radial water barrier, which is toxic and environmentally detrimental, necessitating an alternative solution for high voltage and submarine applications.
Innovation Solution
A power cable with a water barrier sheath made of tin or a tin alloy, either as an extruded metal sheath, longitudinally welded sheath, or laminated structure between polymeric layers, providing a non-toxic and effective barrier against water and humidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If lead is used as water barrier sheath, then effective water barrier and mechanical properties are achieved, but toxicity and environmental harm occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition parameter from lead to tin or tin alloys, fundamentally altering the chemical composition to eliminate toxicity while preserving the water barrier function. This parameter change transforms the material from harmful to environmentally friendly without sacrificing protective capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures where tin or tin alloys are combined with other materials in layered configurations. These composite structures maintain the water barrier effectiveness through the metallic layer while allowing integration with polymeric layers for enhanced mechanical properties and environmental compatibility.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If tin or tin alloy is used as water barrier sheath, then non-toxic and environmentally friendly properties are achieved, but mechanical strength and durability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates composite structures combining tin metal layers with polymeric layers. The tin layer provides the water barrier function while the polymeric layers contribute mechanical strength, toughness, and durability. This composite approach allows the tin to be used in thinner configurations while the polymer compensates for any mechanical property deficiencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the tin metal layer is positioned between or within polymeric layers, creating a multi-layered configuration. This nesting arrangement allows each material to contribute its superior properties - the tin provides water barrier functionality while the surrounding polymers provide mechanical protection and structural integrity.
3Productivity
If extruded or welded sheath structures are used, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity and quality control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the specific material parameters of tin and its alloys, particularly their low melting points and high ductility, to enable simplified manufacturing processes. These parameter characteristics allow for extrusion and welding operations to be performed more easily compared to traditional materials, improving productivity while the process remains relatively straightforward.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a metallic water barrier sheath (5) for power cables for submarine or land applications and wherein the water barrier sheath (5) comprises a metallic layer made of tin or a tin alloy.