Analysis and Prevention of Oxidation Influencing Factors for Copper Conductors of Low-Voltage Cables

In the manufacturing of low-voltage cables, copper conductors, as a key material, were oxidized and discolored during the production process due to contact with mica tape, silane cross-linked polyethylene insulation, and water. The product appearance was affected, and the electrical conductivity and service life of copper conductors were degraded and shortened by the oxidation. In this study, the control variable method was adopted to systematically analyze the effects of the intrinsic oxidation characteristics of copper conductors, mica tape wrapping, and silane cross-linked polyethylene insulation on the oxidation of copper conductors. It was found that the water content and hygroscopicity of mica tape, the content of copper inhibitor in silane cross-linked polyethylene, and the temperature resistance grade of lubricating oil were the main inducing factors.