The next energy revolution – direct current

Support for DC research from LAPP
Industry is playing an important role here. Initial pilot projects, such as those in production cells in the automotive industry, show the potential of direct-current energy supply. It could result in energy savings of up to 20 per cent. Using direct current would not only make conversion losses a thing of the past, but would also allow more energy to be fed into the grid or storage when braking machinery. LAPP focused on the topic early on and was the first company to question whether conventional AC cables were also suitable for direct current. Previously, most experts said that they were.

LAPP wanted a more precise answer and began a research project together with Prof. Frank Berger from the Ilmenau University of Technology. LAPP is also providing the working group with test cables and test benches. The tests show there really is a major difference. The electrical field of direct current has a different effect on the cable’s plastic insulation to that of alternating current. Although it is too early to draw final conclusions, Prof. Berger emphasises that: “It is already apparent that certain applications using direct current will require different materials than they would under alternating current.” Further practical experiments aim to deliver clarity. These include the project “DC-Industrie” supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, in which LAPP is also participating as an associate partner.

First LAPP DC cables
LAPP has been working on the topic of direct current for several years. Last year, it launched the world’s first standard cable specially developed for DC applications: the ÖLFLEX DC 100. Further ÖLFLEX DC products will be presented at the Hannover Messe 2019, including a cable for controlling servo drives and a cable with TPE insulation specially designed for flexible use in energy chains. The decision to offer products in this area is backed up by Prof. Berger’s research. “LAPP is a pioneer in developing cables for low-voltage DC networks”, explains Georg Stawowy, Member of the Board for Technology and Innovation at LAPP Holding AG. “LAPP customers can rest assured that our DC cables meet the same high quality standards as all of our products.”