Evaluation of the magnetic field generated by a power cable in proximity of a joint bay: Comparison between two different approaches

Abstract

The paper presents two different approaches for the evaluation of the magnetic flux density field produced by an underground power cable in proximity of areas where joint bays are present; as known, in those areas the field levels are generally much higher compared to the ones generated along the ordinary route. The first and more rigorous 3D approach takes into account the actual geometry of the power cable conductors in the joint bay, while the second one is based on a simplified 2D approach. The main result of the comparison is that the 2D approach, even at short lateral distances from the cable overestimates the field; therefore, one could adopt this method in order to rapidly and conservatively evaluate the distance of compliance (established by each specific national authority) from the cable in order to ensure protection of population from exposure to power frequency magnetic field.