UNDERGROUND SERVICES

Waikato Times, Volume 102, Issue 17223, 5 October 1927, Page 4

UNDERGROUND SERVICES

POWER BOARD DISCUSSION The matter of using underground cables was discussed by the Thames Valley Power Board at Te Aroha on Tuesday. The engineer, Mr W. G. McLeod, reported on the subject. The information he had obtained indicated that properly treated armoured cables had a long Life. In Canada a trench plough is used for making an 18in trench, laying the cable, and filling in same with the one operation. The cheapest cable was the armoured cable. The cost of the underground cable would be £3l as against £2l 10s for the present charges per 10 chains. The argument against using an unprotected lead covering are: The mechanical strength of the lead is low; heavily fertilised soil would cause trouble with the lead; stones in the soil may come in contact with the lead and damage it; lead covering is used for the neutral or earthed conductor. In Britiah plain lead-covered conductors are not allowed underground. The lead covering must be protected by armouring. The figures indicate that for a single phase service it is cheaper to use armoured cable than lead-cover-ed cable with a protecting board, but for a three-phase supply the positions are reversed. However, armoured cable is preferable. Figures indicate also that it would be a wiser proposition to install larger cables to make provision for increased load, as the additional cost is comparatively small. Mr Thomas remarked that it was well worth consideration, for not only would there be a saving of life, but it would be more economical. He would like it known that where consumers desire it that the board would carry their wishes into effect. He suggested that the Department be written to, making such a scheme possible.

The chairman: The idea is a good one. The board should write to the Department and obtain particulars. It was agreed to defer further consideration for two months.