Rural electrification in Burundi is a key challenge to improve the country's energy infrastructure, and in this process, the supply of conductor and cable High quality is essential for the development of the distribution network. In this context, los medium voltage cables (10 kV y 30 kV) and the aluminum clad steel conductors (ACSR) are essential components to ensure efficient and safe distribution of electricity in rural areas.
1. Rural Electrification in Burundi
Medium voltage power distribution network cables 10 kV a 30 kV. The ACSR bare conductor of the overhead line must comply with the parameters and characteristics set out in BS215 and this specification. Bundled aerial cable or ABC cable of two, three and four core uncoated stranded with rated neutral support 0,6/1 kV (One = 1,2 kV) for use in single-phase and three-phase overhead line power distribution networks with grounded multiple neutral of four three-phase cables of 230/400 V, 50 Hertz
2. Technical Requirements for Rural Electrification: Conductor and Cable
Rural electrification projects require robust and reliable energy infrastructure, that can withstand the environmental conditions of rural areas. Medium voltage cables are among the essential components of the distribution network. (10 kV y 30 kV), overhead cables (ACSR) and pre-assembled low voltage cables (ABC). Next, We describe the key specifications and features for these products.
a) Aluminum Clad Steel Overhead Conductors (ACSR)
The drivers and cable ACSR They are widely used in power transmission and distribution networks due to their excellent weight-to-strength ratio and their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.. In the context of rural electrification in Burundi, ACSR conductors of different sizes are required for installation of overhead lines.
Technical specifications of ACSR conductors:
- ACSR 100mm², 6/1, Dog Code: are needed 680 km of ACSR conductor 100 mm² for medium voltage transmission lines. This type of conductor is ideal for long distances and provides high energy conduction capacity..
- ACSR 50mm², 6/1, Rabbit Code: With a length of 425 km, ACSR driver 50 mm² is suitable for medium voltage lines of lower capacity.
- ACSR 25mm², 6/1, Gopher Code: With a length of 1,754 km, This driver is used in areas where a lower capacity transmission is required., typically in rural areas where demand is lower.
Applicable standards:
- BS215-2: Specifications for Aluminum Clad Steel Conductors for Overhead Transmission Lines.
- IEC 60228: International standards for insulated cable conductors.
b) Preassembled Aerial Cables (ABC)
ABC cables are used in low voltage networks, especially for power distribution in rural areas. These cables are ideal for environments where underground networks are not viable due to costs or logistical difficulties..
ABC Cable Specifications:
- Cables ABC 4x50mm² (600V): Used for large scale distribution, these cables 4 cores are designed for networks 230/400 V, 50 Hz. They have a length of 125 km in the tender.
- Cables ABC 2x50mm² (600V): Used in smaller distribution networks, These cables provide efficient transmission capability over 1,115 km of cables required.
- Cables ABC 4x16mm² (Service): This type of cable is used for the final connection to homes or establishments., with a length of 4 km in the tender.
- Cables ABC 2x10mm² (Service): Used in lower load applications, are required 1,245 km of this cable for residential connections.
Features of ABC cable:
- Nominal voltage: 0.6/1 kV, with a power frequency voltage of 600V between conductor and ground, and 1,000V between conductors.
- Isolation: ABC cables are designed with robust insulation, which makes them suitable for use in overhead networks without additional protection.
- Compliance with IEC standards: ABC cables must comply with the following standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC):
- IEC 60228: Insulated cable conductors.
- IEC 61089: Fluted electrical cable conductors for overhead lines.
- IEC 60502-1: Power cables for nominal voltages up to 1 kV.
- IEC 60230: Impulse tests on cables and accessories.
c) Medium Voltage Cables (10 kV y 30 kV)
Medium voltage cables are essential for distribution networks that interconnect substations and consumption points.. Cables for networks 10 kV y 30 kV must be resistant to abrasion, humidity and high temperatures.
Requirements for medium voltage cables:
- 10 kV y 30 kV: Cables must meet safety and energy efficiency standards, supporting tensions of up to 36 kV in some cases, according to the tender specifications.
- conductor material: Copper or aluminum is used, with insulation that may be cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) o goma ethylene-propylene (EPR), both materials with high resistance to extreme temperatures and mechanical damage.
3. Testing and Quality Control
To ensure that the supplied cables and conductors meet technical and safety standards, must be carried out Factory Acceptance Test (FAT). This test includes verification of driving ability, wear resistance and insulation testing.
4. Challenges and Opportunities for Suppliers
Tenders for rural electrification projects in Burundi present both challenges and opportunities for cable and conductor suppliers. Besides, Compliance with international quality regulations and the ability to supply in a timely manner are key factors to be successful in the tender..
However, rural electrification projects represent a great opportunity for suppliers, not only because they contribute to the economic development of Burundi, but also because they can generate new business opportunities in other African markets.
Conclusion
The supply of cable and conductor for rural electrification projects in Burundi is a crucial element in improving energy infrastructure and ensuring rural communities' access to reliable electricity. Suppliers participating in these tenders must comply with rigorous technical standards and guarantee the quality and durability of the products supplied.. With proper planning, Rural electrification projects can transform the lives of millions of people in Burundi and contribute to the country's sustainable development.