A groundbreaking achievement in submarine cable technology has emerged, setting a new benchmark for underwater installations. Prysmian, a company known for its cutting-edge innovations, recently completed sea trials for the ultra-deep installation of a 500 kV HVDC MI1 cable at 2,150 meters below sea level. This milestone marks the first time an HVDC cable has been laid at such depth, significantly advancing market standards.
This achievement was no small feat. The cable, part of Terna's Tyrrhenian Link project, leverages a non-metallic armoring solution that uses composite materials based on High Modulus Synthetic Fibers. In the underwater environment, this technology proves to be 50% lighter than traditional steel armoring, contributing greatly to the ease of installation and maintenance. The sophisticated Leonardo da Vinci cable-laying vessel played a crucial role in this endeavor, exemplifying the latest advancements in marine engineering.
The successful trials underscore the rigorous laboratory tests and robust innovation that Prysmian is known for. The lightweight armor technology had previously been used in other projects, such as the Evia-Andros-Tinos interconnection in 2019 at 550 meters depth and the Crete-Peloponnese submarine interconnection in 2020 at a depth of 1,000 meters. These successes paved the way for the current record-breaking installation.
The Tyrrhenian Link is an ambitious $1.8 billion project initiated by Terna S.p.A. in 2021. Prysmian's role involves designing, supplying, and installing over 1,500 kilometers of submarine cables. This will facilitate the power exchange among Sardinia, Sicily, and Campania, reinforcing the Mediterranean energy hub. The project is not just a marvel of engineering but also a vital contribution to the region's energy infrastructure, bolstering connectivity and reliability.
The innovative armoring solution not only sets new standards for underwater cable technology but also reveals a glimpse into the future of marine installations. Imagine maintaining and laying cables at unprecedented depths without the burden of traditional materials. Such advancements hold promise for future projects that might reach even greater depths or require more complex installations.
Prysmian's achievements are a testament to its commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is technologically possible. As this new generation of cable technology unfolds, one can only anticipate the further evolution of marine engineering and its implications for global energy networks.
