iii. This method of cable Laying is very useful in detection of cable fault, fire in
cables and its corrective action. Since the cables are clear cut visible hence
any mishap is easily noticeable to everyone passing near to respective area.
iv. The method of cable routing needs high level of engineering skills as proper
care has to be taken for approach roads, buildings, equipment, water and
air pipe lines, structure obstacles, etc.
v. During project period this method becomes hurdle for equipment shifting,
erection of structures, crane movement etc. hence this acts as a retarder for
project activities.
vi. Expandability if possible because of open structures which facilitates in
easy diversion of cable routing,
vii. Dust deposition is the major bottleneck due to expose to environment
which needs regular cleaning of cables in trays.
viii. Since cables are direct exposed to environment resulting in reduction in life
of cable sheath and increase of cable deration factor leading to more capital
cost.
b) Underground Cable Laying System:
Underground cable Laying methods are generally preferred in high dust process
industries, low rain and flat land area. This method is practiced in cement, steel,
chemical, refineries, etc. The cables are routed below the ground using cable
trenches/tunnels from main load centre to application process buildings etc.
Underground cable routing area exclusively designed for compact and
complex process layouts considering great concept of fire and electrical safety.
Cost economy becomes secondary thought in this concept.
The key features of underground cable routing system as under:
i. This cable routing is preferred in low rain and flat land area because of
negligible possibility of water entry inside cable tunnels.
ii. This method is most suitable highly dust polluted plant as well as green
plants like cement industries, oil and gas refineries, non-flammable chemical
industries, ash handling plants etc.
iii. Fire detection is difficult in case of underground cabling hence fighting
against fire in cable tunnels is a great challenge for safety squad. The fire
in underground cabling may result significant damages to plant electrification
system resulting in long plant stoppages.
iv. Fire detection and alarming system is mandatory requirement for cable
tunnels. Tunnel ventilation system is an essential requirement for maintenance
team and safety squad for regular maintenance and emergency cases.
v. In this method of cable Laying, cable fault / fire detection is not visible