TDHVL PhD Students Win European Young Researchers Contest

Ning Liu and Ziyi Huang two of the Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory (TDHVL) PhDs students have won 1st and 3rd prize, respectively, in the Jicable European Young Researchers Contest, confirming that researchers in the TDHVL are at the forefront of research and development in their respective fields.

Liu Ning, research paper “Investigation of charge trapping parameters in aged XLPE cables” demonstrates novel work linking ageing theory and experimental tests to deliver a better understanding of charge trapping phenomenon and relevant modelling techniques. Liu started his PhD in September 2012 and his research focuses on modelling of charge trapping/detrapping characteristics in polymer materials and its relation with ageing.

Ziyi Huang’s research paper “Thermo-Mechanical Pressure Analysis for HVDC Cables” presents the theoretical framework for pressure determination within HVDC cables and related current rating calculation. Ziyi’s started his PhD in October 2011 after being awarded the Zepler Scholarship. He has worked on multiple research projects on power cable rating methodology for both HVAC/HVDC applications.

Jicable HVDC 2013, in Perpignan France, was a top European research seminar on materials for HVDC cables and accessories having 30 presentations and posters with experts from over 25 countries. Representing the TDHVL there were Professor Steve Swingler as member of the international scientific and technical committee, Dr James A Pilgrim and the two Young Research Contest winners Liu Ning and Ziyi Huang.

The high quality research of both PhD Students was recognised through The Young Research Contest for related to HVDC cable transmissions. AC and DC underground high voltage cables are one of the main areas of expertise in the TDHVL. This award confirms that not only is the TDHVL research advancing the current state-of-the-art in the power sector, but is also developing a new generation of top quality researchers.