NKT has started the construction of a new test centre for high-voltage power cable systems at its factory in Karlskrona, Sweden.
The company said this new test centre is essential to the ongoing expansion of the factory aimed at increasing production capacity and installation capabilities to meet the demand for high-voltage power cable systems.
NKT said the site will become one of the largest and most advanced cable testing facilities in the world, designed to test both AC and DC power cable technology.
Executive vice president Darren Fennell said: “The ground-breaking of our new test centre marks a significant milestone in the ongoing investments in Karlskrona.
“Testing is a vital component in ensuring a high level of quality and reliability, and the new facility will enhance our leading position within the testing of high-voltage power cable systems.
“It will also enable us to prepare for testing of future cable technologies with new materials, higher voltage levels, and potentially longer cable lengths.”
As testing high-voltage power cable systems requires specialised equipment, NKT is continuing its collaboration with key suppliers Hitachi Energy and ABB from the existing test centre. Hitachi Energy is providing specially designed shunt reactors.
Hitachi Energy’s managing director in Sweden Tobias Hansson said: “Our partnership with NKT is a testament to the power of collaboration in accelerating a sustainable energy future.
“By providing cutting-edge technology and support, we are enhancing NKT’s testing capabilities and contributing to a more sustainable and electrified future. Our companies have a long history together, and I am glad that we can continue this journey.”
ABB is supplying a drive and control system for the new test centre.
The new test centre will increase NKT’s testing capacity and capabilities within the full range of testing supporting material and process development, sample and routine testing, as well as after-installation and site acceptance tests.
The new test centre is part of the ongoing €1.3bn expansion of NKT’s high-voltage cable factory in Karlskrona, including the new cable-laying vessel NKT Eleonora.
The centre will be approximately 4,000 square metres and is expected to be operational during 2027.