Dow launches 525 kV ENDURANCE™ XLPE HVDC insulation system

Key highlights
  • Dow announced on March 26, 2026 the addition of a 525 kV HVDC ENDURANCE XLPE insulation system
  • The system pairs fully cross‑linked XLPE insulation (ENDURANCE HFDB-4401 UDC) with a semiconductive compound (ENDURANCE HFDB-0840 BK UDC)
  • Qualified for 525 kV and 90°C continuous operation versus the conventional 70°C, enabling higher power transmission capacity
  • Materials were qualified on full‑size submarine HVDC cables and shown at wire 2026 in Düsseldorf (13–17 April)

Announcement

Dow announced in Horgen, Switzerland on March 26, 2026 the addition to its ENDURANCE Compounds for Cable Systems: a fully qualified 525 kV HVDC insulation system for modern power infrastructure.

System composition

The system pairs fully cross‑linked XLPE insulation (ENDURANCE HFDB‑4401 UDC) with a semiconductive compound (ENDURANCE HFDB‑0840 BK UDC) to address charge injection and space‑charge accumulation.

Performance and operating conditions

Qualified for up to 525 kV, the system is designed for 90°C continuous operation versus the conventional 70°C, supporting higher transmission capacity, larger operating margins and simplified design while maintaining electrical and mechanical durability.

Qualification and applications

Materials were qualified on full‑size HVDC submarine cables per industry requirements; primary applications include long‑distance interconnectors and expanding offshore wind infrastructure.

Industry presence

The materials were scheduled to be exhibited at wire 2026 in Düsseldorf (13–17 April) at Dow booth A40, Hall 9.