TRATOS® XLPE/PVC
Cathodic Protection Cable

Tratos single core XLPE/PVC unarmoured cable is designed for use as the connecting cable in non-demanding cathodic protection systems worldwide. 

Because of its many benefits, Cross-linked polythene (XLPE) is now used almost universally as insulation on LV cables. Polyethylene, which is thermoplastic, is transformed into an elastomeric material (XLPE) by cross-linking, which Tratos accomplished by chemical methods. Tratos cross-linked polythene has good mechanical properties and good resistance to abrasion coupled with excellent dielectric properties. Because of its elastomeric nature, it withstands high temperatures without melting or excessively deforming. XLPE has higher modulus and strength at elevated temperatures compared to HDPE it also has reduced creep and sensitivity to stress cracking. The resistance of XLPE to water is excellent, to chemicals and solvents generally good, but it has rather poor resistance to mineral and vegetable oils. Standard XLPE compounds are not flame retardant, however, they are classed as halogen-free.

Immediately over the inner layer of XLPE Tratos extrude a thick layer of a sheathing grade of Polyvinylchloride (PVC). 

Polyvinyl chloride is known universally as a good general-purpose thermoplastic. As the term suggests, the properties of thermoplastics vary with temperature, so at elevated temperatures, PVC softens, conversely at low temperatures, they become stiff and rigid; the grade of PVC used by Tratos has been carefully selected to obtain the optimum balance of properties for this application. Tratos PVC sheaths are tough and abrasion resistant, having good mechanical and ageing properties, with excellent resistance to ozone and weather, and specific resistance to UV is achieved by including carbon black in the compound. Cables sheathed with PVC have good resistance to water but for prolonged or permanent immersion, an alternative sheathing material such as polyethylene is required. 

PVC has good resistance to chemicals but can be affected by solvents and some oils, which tend to leach out the plasticiser and can cause the PVC to crack. PVC compounds are classed as flame retardants, being self-extinguishing when the source of the flame is removed; PVC is, however, not halogen free and produces black smoke when burned.

Tratos XLPE/PVC cables offer performance and reliability over an extended lifetime in cathodic protection applications.