JP7704002B2 - Taping device and method for manufacturing connected power cables - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a taping device and a method for manufacturing a connected power cable.

When manufacturing power cables that are laid over long distances, multiple power cables may be connected in a factory to produce a linked power cable with the desired distance. The cable connections in this case are called "factory joints (FJs)" (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-56039

The objective of this disclosure is to automatically and stably form at least one layer of a cable connection using tape.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure,
A pair of cable clamps each holding a pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having a tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
A taping device comprising:

According to another aspect of the present disclosure,
Providing a plurality of power cables;
forming at least one cable connection portion by connecting a pair of power cables among the plurality of power cables;
Equipped with
The step of forming the cable connection portion includes a step of forming an insulating layer by winding a tape around an outer circumference of the pair of power cables using a taping device,
In the step of forming the insulating layer,
The taping device includes:
a pair of cable clamps each holding the pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having the tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
A method for manufacturing a linked power cable is provided using an apparatus comprising:

According to the present disclosure, at least one layer of the cable connection section can be automatically and stably formed using tape.

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a cable connection according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic enlarged view of a tip portion of the power cable in FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic enlarged view of a welded portion of the metal pipe in FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a taping device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a part of FIG. 4 as viewed in the axial direction of the power cable. FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method for manufacturing a linked power cable according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the insulating layer forming process. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a conductor connecting step. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the cross-linking process.

[Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure]
<Findings gained by the inventors>
First, the findings of the inventors will be described.

(i) Knowledge about cable joints As described above, an example of a power cable that is laid over a long distance is a submarine cable (underwater cable). The power cables that constitute the submarine cable can only be manufactured to a finite length based on the manufacturing capacity of the factory. For this reason, a linked power cable having the required length is manufactured as a submarine cable by connecting multiple power cables in the factory as described above. The linked power cable is then loaded onto a cable laying ship.

Such connected power cables are subjected to bending stresses during winding on the turntable, transportation, extension, and installation. For this reason, the connected power cables are required to be flexible, for example. Therefore, it is desirable that the outermost diameter at the cable connection part is approximately the same as the outermost diameter of the power cable.

The connecting power cable is subjected to tensile forces during extension and installation, or when a tidal current occurs after installation. For this reason, the connecting power cable is required to have, for example, tensile strength. Therefore, it is desirable for the connection strength between the power cables at the cable connection part to be high.

Furthermore, when the interconnected power cable is laid on the seabed, for example, there is a risk that water may enter the cable connection portion, causing corrosion of the conductors, etc. For this reason, the interconnected power cable is required to be, for example, water-resistant (waterproof). Therefore, it is desirable for the cable connection portion to have high sealing properties.

(ii) Knowledge of each layer constituting the cable connection In the above-mentioned cable connection, the conductors of a pair of power cables are connected to each other in a state where the cables are peeled off step by step, so that each layer constituting the cable connection is required to be formed according to the complex outer shape of the inner layer.

The present inventors therefore considered, for example, forming the insulating layer of the cable connection part using tape. This revealed that it was possible to stably form the insulating layer in accordance with the complex outer shape of the layer inside the insulating layer.

However, in order to form an insulating layer at a cable connection, it was necessary to wrap tape around the outer circumference of the power cable many times. For this reason, when workers wrapped the tape by hand, the work time was long and the burden on the worker increased. In addition, the state of tape wrapping varied depending on the worker. Therefore, there was a demand for a taping device that could automatically and stably form at least one layer of a cable connection with tape.

Furthermore, based on the need for an automatic taping device as described above, the present inventors have considered a configuration for the taping device in which a tape roll rotates in the circumferential direction of the power cable.

However, in a configuration in which the tape roll is rotated in the circumferential direction of the power cable, the entire taping device, including the rotation mechanism, could become excessively large. This could result in increased device costs and an increase in the device space required.

The present disclosure is based on the above findings (i) and (ii) discovered by the present inventors.

<Embodiments of the present disclosure>
Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[1] A taping device according to one aspect of the present disclosure,
A pair of cable clamps each holding a pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having a tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
Equipped with.
According to this configuration, at least one layer of the cable connection portion can be automatically and stably formed with tape.

[2] In the taping device according to the above [1],
The tape holder holds the tape roll such that the axis of the tape roll is oriented in a direction intersecting the axis of the power cable.
According to this configuration, it is possible to prevent the taping device from becoming excessively large.

[3] In the taping device according to the above [1] or [2],
The tape holder is provided in plurality,
the tape transport mechanisms are provided in a number equal to the number of the tape holders,
The rotation mechanism is configured to rotate the multiple tape holders and the multiple tape transport mechanisms in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the multiple tapes around the outer periphery of the power cable.
This configuration allows layers that require multiple wraps of tape to be formed quickly.

[4] In the taping device according to any one of [1] to [3] above,
The tape holder is configured to be able to apply a frictional force to the tape roll that inhibits rotation of the tape roll.
With this configuration, the tension of the tape can be easily adjusted.

[5] A method for producing a linked power cable according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes:
Providing a plurality of power cables;
forming at least one cable connection portion by connecting a pair of power cables among the plurality of power cables;
Equipped with
The step of forming the cable connection portion includes a step of forming an insulating layer by winding a tape around an outer circumference of the pair of power cables using a taping device,
In the step of forming the insulating layer,
The taping device includes:
a pair of cable clamps each holding the pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having the tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
An apparatus equipped with the following is used.
According to this configuration, at least one layer of the cable connection portion can be automatically and stably formed with tape.

[Details of the embodiment of the present disclosure]
Next, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

<One embodiment of the present disclosure>
(1) Linked Power Cable and Cable Connection Section A linked power cable 10 and a cable connection section (cable connection structure) 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3. Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a cable connection section according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic enlarged view of a tip portion of the power cable in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is a schematic enlarged view of a welded portion of a metal pipe in Fig. 1.

In FIG. 1, the side of the power cable 100 is shown with the step stripping. Since FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 are merely schematic diagrams, the thickness, spacing, and shape of each part shown in each diagram may differ from the actual shape. Also, the lower side of each of FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 1, the interconnected power cable 10 of this embodiment is configured as an underwater cable that is laid on the bottom of the water (ocean floor) and has multiple power cables 100 and at least one cable connection part 20.

In the following, the "axial direction" of the power cable 100, etc. refers to the direction along the central axis of the power cable 100, etc., and can be rephrased as the longitudinal direction of the power cable 100, etc. Furthermore, the "radial direction" of the power cable 100, etc. refers to the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the power cable 100, etc., and can be rephrased as the transverse direction of the power cable 100, etc. in some cases. Furthermore, the "circumferential direction" of the power cable 100, etc. refers to the direction along the outer periphery of the power cable 100, etc.

[Power cable]
The power cable 100 is configured as a solid insulated cable (CE cable: crosslinked polyethylene (PE) insulated PE sheathed cable, also called an XLPE cable) which is a high-voltage power transmission cable.

The power cable 100 has, for example, from the central axis side to the outer periphery, a conductor 110, a cable inner semiconductive layer 120, a cable insulating layer 130, a cable outer semiconductive layer 140, a water absorbing layer (not shown), a cable metal tube 150, and a cable sheath 160. Note that the portion of the power cable 100 from the conductor 110 to the cable outer semiconductive layer 140 is sometimes referred to as the "cable core."

The conductor 110 has, for example, a plurality of conductor wire layers 114 in which a plurality of conductor wires 112 are twisted together in a spiral shape, although this is omitted in Figs. 1 and 2. The conductor wires 112 are made of, for example, copper, a copper alloy, aluminum, or an aluminum alloy.

The power cable 100 is stripped in stages from the tip of the conductor 110 to the opposite side (so-called "step stripped"). That is, the conductor 110, the cable inner semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, the cable outer semiconductive layer 140, the cable metal tube 150, and the cable sheath 160 are exposed in this order from the tip side of the conductor 110 to the opposite side. Hereinafter, each of the step-stripped parts may be referred to as "exposed parts". With this configuration, the power cables 100 can be connected to each other in order from the central axis side to the outer periphery side.

The conductor 110, the cable inner semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, the cable outer semiconductive layer 140, and the cable metal tube 150 are cut obliquely with respect to the axis of the conductor 110. In other words, the power cable 100 is processed into, for example, a pencil shape, and has a conical peeling surface (symbol not shown) that expands in diameter from the tip of the conductor 110 toward the opposite side.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cable insulation layer 130 has a peel surface that is inclined at a predetermined taper angle θ with respect to the axis of the conductor 110. The taper angle θ of the peel surface of the cable insulation layer 130 is, for example, 5.2° or more and 8.6° or less with respect to the axis of the conductor 110. By setting the taper angle θ to 5.2° or more, it is possible to prevent the length of the cable connection portion 20 in the axial direction of the conductor 110 from becoming excessively long. On the other hand, by setting the taper angle θ to 8.6° or less, it is possible to ensure workability while mitigating the electric field around the exposed cable insulation layer 130.

As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of power cables 100 are provided. Of the plurality of power cables 100, a pair of power cables 100 are butted together with the axes of their conductors 110 aligned. In the following description, one of the pair of power cables 100 may be referred to as the "first power cable 100a" and the other power cable 100 may be referred to as the "second power cable 100b."

[Cable connection part]
As shown in FIG. 1 , the cable connection portion 20 has, for example, a conductor connection portion 210, an inner semiconductive layer 220, an insulating layer 230, an outer semiconductive layer 240, a water-absorbent tape layer 242, a metal tube (protective tube) 250, and a corrosion-resistant layer (connection portion sheath) 260.

(Conductor connection part)
At the conductor connection portion 210, the conductors 110 of the pair of power cables 100 are connected. The point at which the pair of conductors 110 are connected is also referred to as a “connection point.” The conductor connection portion 210 has, for example, exposed portions (reference numbers not shown) of the pair of conductors 110 and a welded portion 212.

The details of the conductor connection process will be described later, but in the welded portion 212 of the conductor connection portion 210 in this embodiment, for example, the conductors 110 are directly welded to each other without a metal tube (so-called conductor sleeve) being provided around the outer periphery of the conductors 110. In the welded portion 212, as described later, a plurality of conductor wires 112 are welded to each of a plurality of conductor wire layers 114 of the conductor 110. In addition, the conductor connection portion 210 is compressed, for example, in the radial direction of the conductor 110. With this configuration, the outer diameter of the conductor connection portion 210 is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the conductor 110 of the power cable 100.

(Internal Semiconductive Layer)
1 and 2 , the internal semiconductive layer 220 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the conductor connection portion 210. The internal semiconductive layer 220 has semiconductivity. This makes it possible to reduce electric field concentration near the surface of the conductor connection portion 210.

In this embodiment, the internal semiconductive layer 220 is, for example, composed of a semiconductive tape wrapped around the outer circumference of the conductor connection part 210. The semiconductive tape is, for example, a cloth tape such as nylon or Tetron (registered trademark) coated with semiconductive rubber, or a tape composed of a semiconductive resin material similar to that of the cable internal semiconductive layer 120 of the power cable 100 and containing a crosslinking agent, and is crosslinked by a crosslinking process described below. By forming the internal semiconductive layer 220 from such a semiconductive tape, the internal semiconductive layer 220 can be formed to match the outer shape and length of the conductor connection part 210.

(Insulating layer)
1, the insulating layer 230 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the internal semiconductive layer 220. The insulating layer 230 has insulating properties, thereby ensuring the insulation of the outer side of the conductor connection portion 210.

In this embodiment, the insulating layer 230 covers, for example, the inner semiconducting layer 220 and the exposed portion of the cable insulating layer 130. The insulating layer 230 has, for example, a conical surface whose diameter expands from the end of the insulating layer 230 toward the center in the axial direction of the conductor 110.

In this embodiment, the insulating layer 230 is, for example, composed of an insulating tape wrapped around the outer circumference of the exposed parts of the internal semiconductive layer 220 and the cable insulating layer 130. The insulating tape is, for example, a tape composed of an insulating resin material similar to that of the cable insulating layer 130 of the power cable 100, containing a cross-linking agent, and is cross-linked by a cross-linking process described below. By forming the insulating layer 230 from such an insulating tape, the insulating layer 230 can be formed to match the complex outer shapes of the exposed parts of the internal semiconductive layer 220 and the cable insulating layer 130.

The insulating layer 230 is formed from insulating tape 232 using a taping device 40, which will be described later. This will be described in more detail later.

(Outer semiconductive layer)
1, the outer semiconductive layer 240 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the insulating layer 230. The outer semiconductive layer 240 has semiconductivity. This makes it possible to reduce electric field concentration near the outer side of the insulating layer 230.

In this embodiment, the external semiconductive layer 240 is, for example, a semiconductive tube that covers the outer periphery of the cable insulating layer 130. Examples of the material of the semiconductive tube include a resin material containing carbon black. The semiconductive tube has heat shrinkability. The semiconductive tube is crosslinked by a method such as electron beam irradiation during the manufacture of the semiconductive tube, and is fused and integrated with the insulating layer by a crosslinking process described below. By forming the external semiconductive layer 240 from such a semiconductive tube, the surface of the external semiconductive layer 240 can be made smooth, even if the layer inside the external semiconductive layer 240 is formed of tape.

In this embodiment, the outer semiconductive layer 240 covers the outer periphery of the insulating layer 230 and contacts the exposed end of the cable outer semiconductive layer 140. This makes the outer semiconductive layer 240 electrically equipotential with the cable outer semiconductive layer 140.

(Water absorbing tape layer)
1, the water-absorbing tape layer 242 is preferably provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the outer semiconductive layer 240, i.e., between the outer semiconductive layer 240 and the metal pipe 250 described below. The water-absorbing tape layer 242 has a similar structure to the water-absorbing layer of the power cable 100, and is, for example, a tape in which semiconductive rubber is applied to a polyester base fabric and a water-absorbing polymer is attached. By providing such a water-absorbing tape layer 242, even if water enters the metal pipe 250, the propagation of water (i.e., water running) can be suppressed.

(metal tube)
As shown in Fig. 1, the metal tube 250 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the outer semiconductive layer 240 (the water absorbing tape layer 242). The metal tube 250 is made of a metal having rigidity. Examples of metals constituting the metal tube 250 include lead and aluminum. By providing such a metal tube 250, the impact resistance of the cable connection part 20 can be improved.

In this embodiment, the metal tube 250 is narrowed so as to contact the outer circumferential surface of the layer located inside the metal tube 250 (i.e., the water-absorbing tape layer 242 in this embodiment). Therefore, the metal tube 250 has, for example, traces of narrowing. With this configuration, the outermost diameter of the cable connection part 20 can be reduced.

As shown in FIG. 3, the axial end of the metal tube 250 and the axial end of the cable metal tube 150 are welded by a welded portion 252. This prevents water from entering between the metal tube 250 and the cable metal tube 150, and makes them electrically equipotential.

In addition, in this embodiment, it is preferable that a heat insulating portion 244 having heat insulating properties is provided between the welded portion 252 and the cable outer semiconductive layer 140. This makes it possible to suppress thermal deterioration of the cable core when the welded portion 252 is welded.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, a reinforcing portion 254 is provided to cover the outer periphery of the welded portion 252. Specifically, the reinforcing portion 254 has, for example, epoxy resin, glass tape soaked in epoxy resin, and adhesive PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) tape that covers these. This can suppress the occurrence of cracks at the end of the welded portion 252.

(Corrosion prevention layer)
As shown in Fig. 1, the anticorrosive layer 260 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the metal pipe 250 and the exposed portion of the cable metal pipe 150. The anticorrosive layer 260 is made of a resin having anticorrosive properties. Examples of the resin having anticorrosive properties include a polyethylene blend. This can suppress corrosion of the cable core.

In this embodiment, the corrosion protection layer 260 is composed of, for example, a tube that covers the outer periphery of the metal tube 250, the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150, and part of the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160. The tube of the corrosion protection layer 260 can easily cover the outer periphery of the metal tube 250. In addition, the outer periphery surface of the corrosion protection layer 260 can be made smooth.

The corrosion protection layer 260 covers a portion of the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160, and therefore has a bulge 260a on the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160. The bulge 260a can stably prevent water from entering the cable core.

In addition, in this embodiment, the anticorrosive layer 260 may be provided in multiple layers in the radial direction of the conductor 110, for example. This can improve the anticorrosive properties and reliability of the anticorrosive layer 260.

Specifically, the first corrosion protection layer 262 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the metal tube 250, the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150, and part of the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160. The first corrosion protection part 263 is provided so as to cover the step between the axial end of the first corrosion protection layer 262 and the cable sheath 160. The first corrosion protection part 263 is made of, for example, a heated and melted polyethylene (PE) tape.

The second corrosion protection layer 264 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the first corrosion protection layer 262, the first corrosion protection portion 263, and a part of the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160. The second corrosion protection portion 265 is provided so as to cover the step between the axial end of the second corrosion protection layer 264 and the cable sheath 160. The second corrosion protection portion 265 is made of, for example, a heated and melted PE tape.

This configuration makes it possible to improve the corrosion resistance and reliability of the corrosion protection layer 260.

As shown in FIG. 1, in this embodiment, it is preferable that a filling portion 256 is provided so as to fill the step between the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150 and the cable sheath 160. The filling portion 256 is made of, for example, an adhesive PE tape and an adhesive PET tape. This allows the anticorrosive layer 260 to smoothly cover the area between the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150 and the cable sheath 160.

(Cover part)
In this embodiment, it is preferable that a cover portion 270 is provided so as to cover the axial end portion (second anticorrosion portion 265) of the anticorrosion layer 260. The cover portion 270 is made of, for example, an adhesive PE tape and an adhesive PET tape. This can smooth out the irregularities near the axial end portion of the anticorrosion layer 260.

(others)
In this embodiment, the connected power cable 10 preferably has a mark indicating the position of the cable connection part 20. The mark is, for example, configured with a colored tape attached to the outer peripheral surface of the power cable 100 or the cable connection part 20. The mark may be configured as a pattern printed or applied on the outer peripheral surface of the power cable 100. Examples of the position of the mark include both ends or the center of the cable connection part 20. This makes it possible to easily visually confirm the position of the cable connection part 20.

(Specific dimensions, etc.)
The outermost diameter of the cable connection part 20 in this embodiment is, for example, approximately equal to the outermost diameter of the power cable 100. Specifically, the outermost diameter of the corrosion protection layer 260 in a cross section including the conductor connection part 210 and perpendicular to the axis of the power cable 100 is, for example, +5 mm or more and +15 mm or less with respect to the outermost diameter of the power cable 100.

In this embodiment, the outermost diameter of the cable connection part 20 is suppressed even at the position where the bulge part 260a of the corrosion protection layer 260 described above is formed. Specifically, the outermost diameter in a cross section perpendicular to the axis of the power cable 100 including the bulge part 260a is, for example, +5 mm or more and +20 mm or less than the outermost diameter of the power cable 100.

(2) Taping Apparatus Next, a taping apparatus 40 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the taping apparatus according to the present embodiment. Fig. 5 is an enlarged view of a part of Fig. 4 as seen from the axial direction of the power cable.

In addition, in the taping device 40, the "axial direction of the power cable 100" can be rephrased as "the extension direction of the power cable 100 held by the cable clamp 410" or "the insertion direction of the power cable 100 in the cable clamp 410."

The taping device 40 according to this embodiment is configured to form at least one layer that constitutes the cable connection section 20, for example, by winding a predetermined tape 232 around the outer circumference of the power cable 100. Specifically, the taping device 40 is configured to form at least the insulating layer 230, for example, as described above.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the taping device 40 of this embodiment includes, for example, a cable clamp 410, a tape holder 420, a tape transport mechanism 430, a rotation mechanism 440, a movement mechanism 450, a support table 462, a lifting mechanism 464, a cart 466, and a control unit 490.

[Cable clamp]
4, for example, a pair of cable clamps 410 are provided. The pair of cable clamps 410 (410a, 410b) are configured to respectively hold, for example, a pair of power cables 100 (100a, 100b).

In a pair of power cables 100 held by a pair of cable clamps 410, the conductors 110 are connected to each other in the above-mentioned step-stripped state to form a conductor connection section 210. Furthermore, an internal semiconducting layer 220 is provided so as to cover the outer periphery of the conductor connection section 210.

Specifically, the cable clamp 410 has, for example, an insertion hole (reference number not shown) through which the power cable 100 is inserted. Furthermore, the upper and lower sides of the cable clamp 410 are separated so as to be able to open and close at a cross section of the cable clamp 410 that includes the insertion hole. The upper and lower sides of the cable clamp 410 are configured to be screwed together with the power cable 100 inserted through the insertion hole. With this configuration, the power cable 100 can be gripped by the cable clamp 410.

[Tape holder]
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the tape holder 420 is configured to hold a tape roll 234 having a tape 232 on the exterior of the power cable 100 , for example.

Note that the "tape 232" referred to here is, for example, the insulating tape that constitutes the insulating layer 230. Also, the "tape roll 234" is a roll in which the tape 232 is wound multiple times.

Here, in order to form the insulating layer 230 in accordance with the complex outer shape of the layers inside the insulating layer 230, it is preferable to shorten the width of the tape 232 for the insulating layer 230. Therefore, the number of turns of the tape 232 around the power cable 100 increases. As a result, the diameter of the tape roll 234 becomes larger, for example, larger than the width of the tape 232.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the tape holder 420 is configured to hold the tape roll 234, for example, so that the axis of the tape roll 234 faces a direction intersecting the axis of the power cable 100. Furthermore, it is preferable that the tape holder 420 holds the tape roll 234, for example, so that the axis of the tape roll 234 faces a direction perpendicular to the axis of the power cable 100. This makes it possible to prevent the taping device 40 from becoming excessively large, even if the diameter of the tape roll 234 is large.

In addition, in this embodiment, the tape holder 420 is configured to be able to apply, for example, a frictional force to the tape roll 234 that suppresses the rotation of the tape roll 234. Specifically, the tape holder 420 has, for example, a countersunk screw that applies a frictional force to the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical core of the tape roll 234. This makes it possible to easily adjust the tension of the tape 232.

[Tape transport mechanism]
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the tape transport mechanism 430 is configured to transport (send out) the tape 232 from, for example, a tape roll 234 toward the outer periphery of the power cable 100 .

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, the tape transport mechanism 430 has, for example, a plurality of transport rollers that change the transport direction of the tape 232 from the tape roll 234. The plurality of transport rollers includes, for example, a first transport roller 432 and a second transport roller 434.

The first conveying roller 432 has, for example, a first rotation axis 433 aligned with the axis of the tape roll 234 held by the tape holder 420. The first conveying roller 432 is disposed, for example, between the tape roll 234 held by the tape holder 420 and the power cable 100. In addition, it is preferable that the first rotation axis 433 of the first conveying roller 432 is disposed so as to overlap and be parallel to the axis of the tape roll 234 held by the tape holder 420, when viewed from the axial direction of the power cable 100.

The second conveying roller 434 has, for example, a second rotating shaft 435 aligned with the axis of the power cable 100. The second conveying roller 434 is arranged, for example, on the radial outside of the power cable 100, in a position that does not interfere with the first conveying roller 432. In addition, it is preferable that the second rotating shaft 435 of the second conveying roller 434 is arranged, for example, parallel to the axis of the power cable 100.

The tape transport mechanism 430 is configured to twist the tape 232 between the first transport roller 432 and the second transport roller 434, for example, to convert the width direction of the tape 232 from a direction along the axis of the tape roll 234 to a direction along the axis of the power cable 100.

In addition, for example, multiple second conveying rollers 434 may be provided.

[Multiple placement]
In this embodiment, a plurality of the above-mentioned tape holders 420 are provided. Also, a plurality of the tape transport mechanisms 430 are provided, the same number as the tape holders 420.

Specifically, for example, two tape holders 420 are provided. The two tape holders 420 are referred to as "tape holders 420a, 420b." In addition, for example, two tape transport mechanisms 430 are also provided. The two tape transport mechanisms 430 are referred to as "tape transport mechanisms 430a, 430b." The tape transport mechanism 430a transports the tape 232 from the tape holder 420a, and the tape transport mechanism 430b has the same components as the tape transport mechanism 430a and is configured to transport the tape 232 from the tape holder 420b.

[Rotation mechanism]
4 and 5 , the rotation mechanism 440 is configured to rotate the tape holder 420 and the tape transport mechanism 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100 (e.g., the direction of the thick arrow in the figure) and wind the tape 232 around the outer periphery of the power cable 100. Note that the rotation mechanism 440 rotates the tape holder 420 and the tape transport mechanism 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100 while maintaining the relative positional relationship between them, for example.

Specifically, the rotation mechanism 440 has, for example, a rotating cylinder 442 and a motor 444.

The rotating cylinder 442 has, for example, a hollow portion (reference number not shown) through which the power cable 100 is inserted. The rotating cylinder 442 is configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100 while holding, for example, the tape holder 420 and the tape transport mechanism 430 on the radial outside of the power cable 100. More specifically, the rotating cylinder 442 holds, for example, the tape holder 420 on the outer periphery of the rotating cylinder 442, and holds the tape holder 420 on the first axial end side of the rotating cylinder 442. Furthermore, the rotating cylinder 442 has, for example, a gear 442g provided around the outer periphery of the second axial end side of the rotating cylinder 442.

The rotating cylinder 442 is divided so as to be openable and closable, for example, at a cross section including a hollow portion along the axial direction of the rotating cylinder 442. This allows the power cable 100 to be easily inserted into the hollow portion of the rotating cylinder 442.

The motor 444 is configured to rotate the rotating cylinder 442 by meshing with the gear 442g of the rotating cylinder 442 described above. The motor 444 is connected to the control unit 490, which will be described later, for example.

In addition, in this embodiment, the rotation mechanism 440 is configured to rotate the multiple tape holders 420 and the multiple tape transport mechanisms 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100, for example, to wind the multiple tapes 232 around the outer periphery of the power cable 100. Note that the rotation mechanism 440 rotates the multiple tape holders 420 and the multiple tape transport mechanisms 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100 while maintaining their relative positional relationship. With this configuration, the multiple tapes 232 can be wound simultaneously, or the multiple tapes 232 can be wound so that at least a portion of each of them overlaps with each other (so-called lap winding).

[Moving mechanism]
As shown in FIG. 4 , the moving mechanism 450 is configured to move the tape holder 420 , the tape transport mechanism 430 and the rotating mechanism 440 in the axial direction of the power cable 100 between, for example, a pair of cable clamps 410 .

Specifically, the movement mechanism 450 is configured as a so-called linear guide, and has, for example, a rail 452, a ball screw (not shown), a ball screw motor (not shown), and a block 454.

The rail 452 and the ball screw are arranged, for example, along the axial direction of the power cable 100 held by the pair of cable clamps 410. For example, a ball screw is arranged between the pair of rails 452. The ball screw motor is configured to rotate the ball screw in the circumferential direction of the ball screw. The block 454 is screwed into the ball screw and configured to move linearly along the rail 452 in accordance with the rotation of the ball screw in the circumferential direction. At least the rotation mechanism 440 described above is fixed on the block 454. With this configuration, the tape transport mechanism 430 and the rotation mechanism 440 can be moved in the axial direction of the power cable 100 by moving the block 454 of the movement mechanism 450 along the rail 452.

[Configuration below the device]
4 , the support table 462 is configured to support, for example, at least a pair of cable clamps 410 and the moving mechanism 450. The lifting mechanism 464 is configured to raise and lower the support table 462 in the vertical direction, for example. This makes it possible to easily set the power cable 100 on the taping device 40 by lifting the taping device 40 from the vertically below the power cable 100.

The cart 466 is configured to be movable, for example, with the lifting mechanism 464 placed on it. This allows the taping device 40 to be moved to any position.

[Control unit (control panel)]
As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 490 is configured to be connected to at least the rotation mechanism 440 and the movement mechanism 450, for example, and to control them.

The control unit 490 has, for example, a computer. Specifically, the computer is configured, for example, as a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and has a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a storage device, an I/O port, and an input/output unit. The RAM, storage device, and I/O port are configured to be able to exchange data with the CPU. The I/O port is connected, for example, to each of the rotation mechanism 440 and the movement mechanism 450. The input/output unit is configured to allow an operator to input predetermined instructions and operating conditions, etc., to the computer, and to output (display) the status of the taping device 40.

The control unit 490 is configured to be capable of controlling the rotation mechanism 440, for example, to rotate the tape holder 420 and the tape transport mechanism 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100. The control unit 490 is also configured to be capable of feedback-controlling the rotation mechanism 440, for example, based on the number of rotations obtained from the motor 444 of the rotation mechanism 440.

The control unit 490 is configured to be capable of controlling the moving mechanism 450, for example, to move the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotating mechanism 440 in the axial direction of the power cable 100 between a pair of cable clamps 410. The control unit 490 is also configured to be capable of feedback-controlling the moving mechanism 450, for example, based on the number of rotations obtained from the motor of the moving mechanism 450.

When controlling the moving mechanism 450, the control unit 490 obtains information from the position sensors to grasp the positions of the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotation mechanism 440,
The rotation can be reversed or stopped at any position. The position sensor is, for example, an encoder or a displacement sensor.

The control unit 490 controls the rotation mechanism 440 and the movement mechanism 450 to overlap and wind (wrap) the tape 232 to any length.

In this embodiment, the control unit 490 controls the moving mechanism 450 to move the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotating mechanism 440 while sequentially overlapping a portion of the tape 232 wound around the outer periphery of the power cable 100 in the axial direction of the power cable 100. The control unit 490 also controls the moving mechanism 450 to move the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotating mechanism 440 in a reciprocating manner in the axial direction of the power cable 100 between a pair of cable clamps 410. The control unit 490 also controls the moving mechanism 450 to gradually expand the reciprocating movement range from the connection point of the pair of power cables 100 toward the outside in the axial direction of the power cable 100.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 490 is configured to be switchable between, for example, an automatic driving mode and a manual driving mode.

In the automatic operation mode, the control unit 490 is configured to automatically control the rotation mechanism 440 and the movement mechanism 450, triggered by a start command based on the operation conditions input by an operator to the input/output unit, for example. By inputting the overlap length of the tape 232, the tape winding speed, the number of inversions, the left and right inversion positions, and the inversion position correction after inversion, for example, as the operation conditions, automatic winding can be performed according to the shape of the insulating layer 230 of the connection portion.

On the other hand, in the manual operation mode, the control unit 490 is configured to be manually operable by an operator, for example, that is, it controls (operates, stops, changes speed, flips left and right) the rotation mechanism 440 and the movement mechanism 450 based on the operation instructions input by the operator to the input/output unit.

[Other configurations]
In addition, the taping device 40 preferably has at least one of an intrusion sensor (not shown) that detects an object that intrudes into the pair of cable clamps 410, and a proximity sensor (not shown) that detects an object that is close to the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotation mechanism 440. This makes it possible to avoid contact between the taping device 40 and the human body.

Furthermore, it is preferable that the taping device 40 has a cover (not shown) that covers, for example, the pair of cable clamps 410, the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, the rotation mechanism 440, and the movement mechanism 450. This can reliably prevent contact between the taping device 40 and the human body.

(3) Manufacturing method of interconnected power cables (cable connection method)
Next, a method for manufacturing a linked power cable according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 9. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a linked power cable according to the present embodiment. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing an insulating layer forming process. Note that steps are abbreviated as "S". Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a conductor connecting process. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-linking process.

As shown in FIG. 6, the manufacturing method for the interconnected power cable 10 of this embodiment includes, for example, a preparation process S100 and a cable connection process S200.

[S100: Preparation process]
First, a plurality of power cables 100 are prepared.

Specifically, the power cable 100 is peeled off step by step from the tip of the conductor 110 to the opposite side. At this time, the power cable 100 is processed into a pencil shape, and a cone-shaped peeling surface is formed that expands in diameter from the tip of the conductor 110 to the opposite side.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cable insulation layer 130 has a peel surface that is inclined at a predetermined taper angle θ with respect to the axis of the conductor 110. The taper angle θ of the peel surface of the cable insulation layer 130 is, for example, 5.2° or more and 8.6° or less.

After the step stripping of each of the pair of power cables 100 is completed, the first power cable 100a is inserted, for example, through the semiconductive tube that constitutes the outer semiconductive layer 240, the group of pressure tubes used in the second cross-linking step S244, the metal tube 250, and the tube that constitutes the anticorrosive layer 260.

Next, the power cable 100 is shaped into a straight line (so-called "direct drawing" is performed). Specifically, a heater is wrapped around the exposed parts of the conductor 110, the cable inner semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, and the cable outer semiconductive layer 140, and heated to a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time. When heating is complete, the heater is removed. Next, the exposed parts of the conductor 110, the cable inner semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, and the cable outer semiconductive layer 140 are fixed along a fixing jig. In this state, the exposed parts of the conductor 110, the cable inner semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, and the cable outer semiconductive layer 140 are cooled. This allows the power cable 100 to be shaped into a straight line.

[S200: Cable connection process]
After the preparation process S100 is completed, the cable connection process S200 is performed. The cable connection process S200 includes, for example, a conductor connection process S210, an inner semiconductive layer formation process S220, a first bridging process S224, an insulating layer formation process S230, an outer semiconductive layer formation process S240, a second bridging process S244, an inspection process S250, a metal pipe formation process S260, a corrosion protection layer formation process S270, and a post-treatment process S280.

(S210: Conductor connection process)
A conductor connection portion 210 is formed by connecting the conductors 110 of the pair of power cables 100 .

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, a ring 320 is fitted around the outer circumference of the outermost conductor wire layer 114f that constitutes the conductor 110. The ring 320 is also used for cooling during welding. Once the ring 320 is fitted, the conductor wires 112 that constitute the conductor wire layer 114f are bent along the outer shape of the ring 320.

The same procedure as for the conductor wire layer 114f is repeated for each of the conductor wire layers 114e to 114c in sequence. After that, only the central conductor wire layers 114a and 114b are left in a straight line. The tips of the conductor wire layers 114a and 114b that remain in a straight line are cut into a cone shape (tapered shape).

Once bending of the conductor wire layer 114 and other processes are complete, the air nozzle 310 is positioned toward the exposed portion of the conductor 110. The conductors 110 of the pair of power cables 100 are butted together in a straight line with a specified distance between them.

Next, each of the conductor wire layers 114 is welded in the following manner. Examples of methods for welding the conductor 110 include gas welding using propane gas and oxygen gas.

First, the linear conductor wire layers 114a and 114b of a pair of power cables 100 are welded. During and after welding, cooling air is supplied to the conductor 110 from the air nozzle 310 to cool the welded portions of the conductor wire layers 114a and 114b. The cooling method may be a method of forming a flow path for cooling water inside the ring 320 and passing the cooling water through it. After cooling, the welded portions of the conductor wire layers 114a and 114b are shaped using a belt sander and sandpaper.

Next, the bent conductor wires 112 of the conductor wire layer 114c are returned to a straight state, and the ring 320 used to bend the conductor wire layer 114c is removed. At this time, a jig or the like is used to shape the conductor wire layer 114c. After shaping, the conductor wires 112 of the conductor wire layer 114c of the pair of power cables 100 are welded together. After welding, the welded portions of the conductor wires 112 of the conductor wire layer 114c are cooled. If the finished outer diameter does not meet the specifications after cooling, the conductor wire layers 114c to 114a are shaped appropriately using a jig.

The same procedure as that for welding the conductor wire layer 114c is repeated in sequence for each of the conductor wire layers 114d to 114f. In this manner, the conductor connection portion 210 is formed.

Then, a specified conductor compression device or compression tool is used to compress and shape the conductor connection part 210. Through compression molding, the outer diameter of the conductor connection part 210 is made approximately equal to the outer diameter of the conductor 110 of the power cable 100, and any bends in the conductor connection part 210 are corrected.

As a result, all of the conductor wires 112 welded at the conductor connection portion 210 become one body.

(S220: Internal semiconducting layer forming step)
After the conductor connecting step S210, an internal semiconductive layer 220 having semiconductivity is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the conductor connecting portion 210.

Specifically, the pair of power cables 100 are pulled in opposite directions to maintain them in a straight line. In this state, semiconductive tape is wrapped around the outer periphery of the conductor connection portion 210 to cover it. This forms the internal semiconductive layer 220.

(S224: first crosslinking step)
After the internal semiconductive layer forming step S220, in this embodiment, the internal semiconductive layer 220 is crosslinked.

Specifically, a group of pressure tapes is wrapped around the exposed portions of the internal semiconductive layer 220, the cable internal semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, and the cable external semiconductive layer 140. A thermocouple, aluminum foil, and a heater are then attached, and the heating area is heated to a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time. This crosslinks the internal semiconductive layer 220. Once crosslinking is complete, the heater and the group of pressure tapes are removed in sequence. After crosslinking is complete, the surfaces of the internal semiconductive layer 220, the cable internal semiconductive layer 120, the cable insulating layer 130, and the cable external semiconductive layer 140 are scraped to finish them to the specified outer diameter dimensions.

(S230: Insulating layer forming process)
After the first cross-linking step S224, an insulating layer 230 having insulating properties is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the internal semiconductive layer 220. In this embodiment, the above-mentioned taping device 40 is used to wind an insulating tape 232 so as to cover the internal semiconductive layer 220 and the exposed portion of the cable insulating layer 130. In this way, the insulating layer 230 is formed.

In this embodiment, the insulating layer formation process S230 includes, for example, a taping device preparation process S231, an automatic taping process S232, a manual taping process S233, a hand-winding process S234, and a device dismantling process S235.

(S231: Taping device preparation process)
First, the inside of the clean booth is cleaned, and the above-mentioned taping device 40 is placed in the clean booth.

Next, in the taping device 40, the upper sides of the pair of cable clamps 410 are opened, and the upper side of the rotating cylinder 442 of the rotating mechanism 440 is opened. The support table 462 is lowered by the lifting mechanism 464. The taping device 40 in this state is moved vertically downward near the connection point of the pair of power cables 100. After the taping device 40 has been moved to a predetermined position, the support table 462 is raised by the lifting mechanism 464.

After the support base 462 is raised, the pair of cable clamps 410 each grip a pair of power cables 100. In addition, with the power cables 100 inserted into the hollow portion of the rotating cylinder 442 of the rotation mechanism 440, the upper side of the rotating cylinder 442 is closed, and the upper and lower sides of the rotating cylinder 442 are connected.

After the power cable 100 is set on the taping device 40 as described above, the tape roll 234 is set on the tape holder 420. Next, the tape 232 is fed from the tape roll 234 through the tape transport mechanism 430 to the power cable 100, and the starting point of the tape 232 is adhered to the outer periphery of the connection point of the pair of power cables 100.

(S232: Automatic taping process)
When the above preparations are completed, the operator switches the control unit 490 to the automatic operation mode and inputs the operation conditions and a start instruction to the input/output unit. The start instruction input by the operator to the input/output unit triggers winding of the tape 232 by the rotation mechanism 440 and the movement mechanism 450 based on the predetermined operation conditions.

Specifically, the tape holder 420 and the tape transport mechanism 430 are rotated in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100, and the tape 232 is wound around the outer circumference of the power cable 100.

The tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotation mechanism 440 are moved repeatedly in the axial direction of the power cable 100 between the pair of cable clamps 410. At this time, the range of the repeated movement is gradually expanded from the connection point of the pair of power cables 100 toward the outside in the axial direction of the power cable 100.

When winding of the tape 232 in the automatic operation mode is completed based on the specified operating conditions, the moving mechanism 450 is automatically stopped. Alternatively, if the tape winding condition in the automatic operation is poor, it is forcibly stopped at any timing.

(S233: Manual taping process)
When the automatic taping step S232 is completed, the operator switches to manual operation mode in the control unit 490. Based on the operation instructions input by the operator to the input/output unit, the rotating mechanism 440 and the moving mechanism 450 wind the tape 232 via the control unit 490.

At this time, the worker issues operating instructions such as the direction and speed of rotation of the tape holder 420 and tape transport mechanism 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100, and the timing of reversing the tape holder 420, tape transport mechanism 430, and rotation mechanism 440 in the axial direction of the power cable 100 between a pair of cable clamps 410.

When winding of the tape 232 in the manual operation mode is complete, the operator issues an instruction to stop the taping device 40. Next, after cutting the tape 232, the tape holder 420, tape transport mechanism 430, and rotation mechanism 440 are retracted to the end of the taping device 40, and the process proceeds to the next step.

(S234: Hand winding process)
After the manual taping step S233 is completed, the worker manually winds the tape 232. This allows the outer shape of the insulating layer 230 to be adjusted.

(S235: Equipment disassembly process)
After the manual winding step S234 is completed, the taping device 40 is disassembled.

Specifically, in the taping device 40, the upper sides of the pair of cable clamps 410 are opened, and the upper side of the rotating cylinder 442 of the rotating mechanism 440 is opened. After these are opened, the support table 462 is lowered by the lifting mechanism 464. Then, the taping device 40 is removed from the power cable 100.

(S240: External semiconducting layer forming step)
After the insulating layer forming step S230, an outer semiconductive layer 240 having semiconductivity is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the insulating layer 230.

Specifically, the semiconductive tube, which has been passed through the first power cable 100a in advance, is placed on the outer periphery of the cable insulating layer 130. After the semiconductive tube is placed, it is thermally shrunk. The excess length of the semiconductive tube is then cut off. In this way, the outer semiconductive layer 240 is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the insulating layer 230 and to contact the exposed end of the cable outer semiconductive layer 140.

(S244: Second crosslinking step)
After the outer semiconductive layer forming step S240, the cable core is heated to cross-link the insulating layer 230 and fuse the inner semiconductive layer 220, the insulating layer 230 and the outer semiconductive layer 240 together to form an integrated body.

First, the outer periphery of the outer semiconductive layer 240 is covered with a pressure tube and a group of pressure tubes.

Next, as shown in Figure 9, the cable core covered with the clamping tubes is set in the bridging device 50.

The cross-linking device 50 has, for example, a heating furnace (mold kettle) 510, a heater 520, and a gas supply line 530. The heating furnace 510 is configured as a cylindrical body having a hollow portion into which a cable core is inserted. The heater 520 is provided in the heating furnace 510 and configured to heat the cable core in the hollow portion of the heating furnace 510. The gas supply line 530 has the ability to seal and pressurize a gas such as nitrogen gas or air in the hollow portion of the heating furnace 510.

Once the cable core is set in the cross-linking device 50, a gas such as nitrogen gas or air is supplied from the gas supply line 530 to the cable core in the hollow portion of the heating furnace 510 to pressurize it, while the cable core is heated by the heater 520. By heating the cable core for a specified time, at a specified temperature, and at a specified pressure, the insulating layer 230 is cross-linked.

After cross-linking, the cable core is removed from the cross-linking device 50. Next, the pressure tubes covering the cable core are removed.

(S250: Inspection process)
After the second cross-linking step S244, an inspection is performed using X-rays to check for the presence or absence of foreign matter in the cable connection portion 20 and to measure the thickness of the insulating layer 230.

(S260: Metal tube forming process)
If it is confirmed in the inspection step S250 that there are no abnormalities, as shown in FIG. 1, a metal tube 250 made of metal is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the outer semiconductive layer 240 in the following manner.

First, a water-absorbing tape is wrapped around the outer periphery of the outer semiconductive layer 240. This forms the water-absorbing tape layer 242.

Next, as shown in FIG. 3, a heat insulating section 244 with insulating properties is formed directly below the welded section 252 described below.

Once the insulating portion 244 has been formed, the metal tube 250 that was previously passed through the first power cable 100a is moved and the metal tube 250 is placed over the outer circumference of the outer semiconductive layer 240.

Once the metal tube 250 is placed, a swaging device is used to reduce the diameter of the metal tube 250 so that it comes into contact with the outer circumferential surface of the layer located inside the metal tube 250.

Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the axial end of the metal tube 250 and the axial end of the cable metal tube 150 are welded to each other by a welded portion 252. As a method for welding the metal tube 250, for example, gas welding using hydrogen gas and oxygen gas can be mentioned.

After welding, the reinforcing portion 254 is formed to cover the outer periphery of the welded portion 252. Specifically, epoxy resin is applied to the outer periphery of the welded portion 252, and glass tape soaked in epoxy resin is wrapped around it. Furthermore, adhesive PET tape is wrapped around it to cover the above. In this manner, the reinforcing portion 254 is formed.

Then, as shown in FIG. 1, adhesive PE tape and adhesive PET tape are wound in this order to fill the step between the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150 and the cable sheath 160. This forms the filling portion 256.

(S270: Anticorrosion layer forming process)
After the metal pipe forming step S260, as shown in FIG. 1, a corrosion protection layer 260 made of resin is formed so as to cover the outer periphery of the metal pipe 250 in the following manner.

First, a PE tube that has been passed through the first power cable 100a in advance is used to cover the outer periphery of the metal tube 250, the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150, and part of the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160. Once the PE tube is in place, it is thermally shrunk. This forms the first corrosion protection layer 262.

After the first corrosion protection layer 262 is formed, as shown in Figures 1 and 10, PE tape is wrapped around and heated to melt so as to cover the step between the axial end of the first corrosion protection layer 262 and the cable sheath 160. This forms the first corrosion protection section 263.

Next, the PE tube that has been passed through the first power cable 100a in advance is used to cover the outer periphery of the first corrosion protection layer 262, the first corrosion protection portion 263, and part of the outer periphery of the cable sheath 160. Once covered, the PE tube is thermally shrunk. This forms the second corrosion protection layer 264.

After the second corrosion protection layer 264 is formed, as shown in FIG. 1, PE tape is wrapped around and heated to melt so as to cover the step between the axial end of the second corrosion protection layer 264 and the cable sheath 160. This forms the second corrosion protection part 265.

(S280: Post-processing step)
After the anticorrosion layer forming step S270, the following post-treatment may be performed as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 1, the adhesive PE tape and the adhesive PET tape are wrapped in this order to cover the axial end (second corrosion protection portion 265) of the corrosion protection layer 260. This forms the cover portion 270.

This is how the interconnected power cable 10 of this embodiment is manufactured.

(4) Effects of the Present Embodiment According to the present embodiment, one or more of the following effects can be obtained.

(a) In this embodiment, the rotating mechanism 440 in the taping device 40 described above rotates the tape holder 420 and the tape transport mechanism 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100, and winds the tape 232 around the outer periphery of the power cable 100. In addition, the moving mechanism 450 moves the tape holder 420, the tape transport mechanism 430, and the rotating mechanism 440 in the axial direction of the power cable 100 between the pair of cable clamps 410.

For example, even when the tape 232 is wrapped around the outer circumference of the power cable 100 multiple times to form the insulating layer 230 of the cable connection portion 20, the above-mentioned taping device 40 allows the tape 232 to be wrapped quickly and easily. This shortens the work time of the insulating layer forming process S230 and reduces the burden on the worker. In addition, the above-mentioned taping device 40 allows the wrapping state of the tape 232 to be uniform within the connected power cable 10, regardless of the position of the cable connection portion 20 in the connected power cable 10.

In this way, by using the taping device 40, it is possible to automatically and stably form at least one layer of the cable connection section 20 using the tape 232.

(b) In this embodiment, the tape holder 420 is configured to hold the tape roll 234 such that the axis of the tape roll 234 is oriented in a direction that intersects the axis of the power cable 100.

As described above, in the cable connection section 20, the insulating layer 230 is formed to fit the complex outer shape of the layers inside the insulating layer 230, so it is preferable to shorten the width of the tape 232 for the insulating layer 230. For this reason, the diameter of the tape roll 234 tends to be large.

In a tape holder 420 that holds such a tape roll 234, if the axis of the tape roll 234 is parallel to the axis of the power cable 100, the outermost rotational diameter when the tape holder 420 is rotated in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100 becomes large depending on the diameter of the tape roll 234. Therefore, there is a possibility that the taping device 40 becomes excessively large.

In contrast, in the present embodiment, by orienting the axis of the tape roll 234 in a direction intersecting (preferably perpendicular to) the axis of the power cable 100, the above-mentioned outermost rotation diameter can be reduced regardless of the diameter of the tape roll 234, even if the diameter of the tape roll 234 used becomes large. This makes it possible to prevent the taping device 40 from becoming excessively large. As a result, it becomes possible to reduce the device cost and the device space.

(c) In this embodiment, the rotation mechanism 440 is configured to rotate the multiple tape holders 420 and the multiple tape transport mechanisms 430 in the circumferential direction of the power cable 100, and wind the multiple tapes 232 around the outer periphery of the power cable 100. With this configuration, the multiple tapes 232 can be wound simultaneously, or the multiple tapes 232 can be wound so that at least a portion of each of them overlaps with each other (so-called lap winding). This allows the insulating layer 230, which requires multiple windings of the tape 232, to be formed quickly. As a result, it is possible to further shorten the work time of the insulating layer formation process S230.

(d) In this embodiment, the tape holder 420 is configured to be able to apply a frictional force to the tape roll 234 that suppresses the rotation of the tape roll 234. By increasing the frictional force that suppresses the rotation of the tape roll 234, the tension of the tape 232 can be increased. On the other hand, by decreasing the frictional force that suppresses the rotation of the tape roll 234, the tension of the tape 232 can be decreased. In this manner, the tension of the tape 232 can be adjusted.

<Other embodiments of the present disclosure>
Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been specifically described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

In the above embodiment, the taping device 40 is configured to form the insulating layer 230, but this is not limited to the above case. The taping device 40 may be configured to form other layers that constitute the cable connection portion 20. For example, other layers such as the internal semiconducting layer 220 may be formed by changing the tape roll 234 set in the tape holder 420 of the taping device 40.

In the above embodiment, the connecting power cable 10 is configured as an underwater cable, but the connecting power cable 10 may be configured to be laid underground or above ground.

In the above embodiment, the interconnecting power cable 10 has one cable connection part 20, but the interconnecting power cable 10 may have multiple cable connection parts 20.

In the above embodiment, the conductors 110 are directly welded to each other at the conductor connection section 210. However, the conductors 110 may be connected to each other by compressing the conductor sleeve surrounding the outer periphery of the conductor 110 at the conductor connection section 210. However, from the viewpoint of reducing the outer diameter of the conductor connection section 210 and improving the connection strength, it is preferable that the conductors 110 are directly welded to each other.

In the above embodiment, a filling portion 256 is provided between the exposed portion of the cable metal tube 150 and the cable sheath 160, but the end of the cable sheath 160 may be cut in a tapered shape.

In the above embodiment, the anticorrosion layer 260 is provided in multiple layers in the radial direction of the conductor 110, but the anticorrosion layer 260 may be a single layer as long as corrosion resistance can be ensured.

In the above embodiment, the corrosion protection layer 260 is described as being made of a tube, but the corrosion protection layer 260 may be made of a tape. Also, the corrosion protection layer 260 may be either insulating or semi-conductive.

<Preferred aspects of the present disclosure>
Preferred aspects of the present disclosure are described below.

(Appendix 1)
A pair of cable clamps each holding a pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having a tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
A taping device comprising:

(Appendix 2)
2. The taping device of claim 1, wherein the tape holder holds the tape roll so that the axis of the tape roll is oriented in a direction intersecting with the axis of the power cable.

(Appendix 3)
3. The taping device according to claim 1, wherein the tape transport mechanism has a plurality of transport rollers that change the transport direction of the tape from the tape roll.

(Appendix 4)
The plurality of conveying rollers include
a first conveying roller having a first rotation axis aligned with the axis of the tape roll;
a second conveyor roller having a second rotation axis aligned with the axis of the power cable;
Including,
4. The taping device of claim 3, wherein the tape is twisted between the first conveyor roller and the second conveyor roller to convert the width direction of the tape from a direction along the axis of the tape roll to a direction along the axis of the power cable.

(Appendix 5)
A control unit that controls the rotation mechanism and the movement mechanism,
5. The taping device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the moving mechanism to move the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism while sequentially overlapping a portion of the tape wound around an outer periphery of the power cable in an axial direction of the power cable.

(Appendix 6)
A control unit that controls the rotation mechanism and the movement mechanism,
A taping device described in any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 5, wherein the control unit controls the moving mechanism so as to repeatedly move the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotation mechanism between the pair of cable clamps.

(Appendix 7)
7. The taping device according to claim 6, wherein the control unit controls the movement mechanism so as to gradually expand the range of reciprocal movement from the connection point of the pair of power cables toward the outside.

(Appendix 8)
The tape holder is provided in plurality,
the tape transport mechanisms are provided in a number equal to the number of the tape holders,
8. The taping device according to claim 1, wherein the rotating mechanism is configured to rotate the plurality of tape holders and the plurality of tape transport mechanisms in a circumferential direction of the power cable and wind the plurality of tapes around an outer periphery of the power cable.

(Appendix 9)
9. The taping device according to claim 1, wherein the tape holder is configured to apply a frictional force to the tape roll that suppresses rotation of the tape roll.

(Appendix 10)
Providing a plurality of power cables;
forming at least one cable connection portion by connecting a pair of power cables among the plurality of power cables;
Equipped with
The step of forming the cable connection portion includes a step of forming an insulating layer by winding a tape around an outer circumference of the pair of power cables using a taping device,
In the step of forming the insulating layer,
The taping device includes:
a pair of cable clamps each holding the pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having the tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
2. A method for manufacturing a linked power cable using an apparatus comprising:

10 Connected power cable 20 Cable connection section 40 Taping device 50 Cross-linking device 100 Power cable 100a First power cable 100b Second power cable 110 Conductor 112 Conductor wire 114 (114a to 114f) Conductor wire layer 120 Cable inner semiconductive layer 130 Cable insulating layer 140 Cable outer semiconductive layer 150 Cable metal tube 160 Cable sheath 210 Conductor connection section 212 Welded section 220 Inner semiconductive layer 230 Insulating layer 232 Tape 234 Tape roll 240 Outer semiconductive layer 242 Water-absorbing tape layer 244 Heat-insulating section 250 Metal tube 252 Welded section 254 Reinforced section 256 Filled section 260 Anticorrosive layer 260a Bulging section 262 First anticorrosive layer 263 First anticorrosive section 264 Second anticorrosive layer 265 Second corrosion protection unit 270 Cover unit 310 Air nozzle 320 Ring 410 Cable clamp 420 (420a, 420b) Tape holder 430 (430a, 430b) Tape transport mechanism 432 First transport roller 433 First rotating shaft 434 Second transport roller 435 Second rotating shaft 440 Rotation mechanism 442 Rotating cylinder 442g Gear 444 Motor 450 Movement mechanism 452 Rail 454 Block 462 Support base 464 Lifting mechanism 466 Cart 490 Control unit 510 Heating furnace 520 Heater 530 Gas supply line

Claims (4)

A pair of cable clamps each holding a pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having a tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
Equipped with
The tape holder holds the tape roll so that the axis of the tape roll is oriented in a direction intersecting the axis of the power cable.
Taping device. The tape holder is provided in plurality,
the tape transport mechanisms are provided in a number equal to the number of the tape holders,
2 . The taping device according to claim 1 , wherein the rotating mechanism is configured to rotate the plurality of tape holders and the plurality of tape transport mechanisms in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the plurality of tapes around an outer periphery of the power cable. 3. The taping device according to claim 1, wherein the tape holder is configured to apply a frictional force to the tape roll that suppresses rotation of the tape roll. Providing a plurality of power cables;
forming at least one cable connection portion by connecting a pair of power cables among the plurality of power cables;
Equipped with
The step of forming the cable connection portion includes a step of forming an insulating layer by winding a tape around an outer circumference of the pair of power cables using a taping device,
In the step of forming the insulating layer,
The taping device includes:
a pair of cable clamps each holding the pair of power cables;
a tape holder for holding a tape roll having the tape on a radially outer side of the power cable;
a tape transport mechanism that transports the tape from the tape roll toward an outer periphery of the power cable;
a rotating mechanism that rotates the tape holder and the tape transport mechanism in a circumferential direction of the power cable to wind the tape around an outer periphery of the power cable;
a moving mechanism that moves the tape holder, the tape transport mechanism, and the rotating mechanism in an axial direction of the power cable between the pair of cable clamps;
Equipped with
A method of manufacturing a linked power cable using an apparatus for holding the tape holder such that the axis of the tape roll is oriented transverse to the axis of the power cable .

Images