This technique maximises efficiencies in cable installation and improves safety in working practices

Balfour Beatty has automated the installation of a 250 metre 33kV cable underneath the woodland of South Yorkshire, as part of the Neepsend project for the National Grid.

The cable, which connects the UK transmission system operator to the region’s Northern Powergrid substations, will deliver electricity to local residents and businesses.

Due to the terrain and the tight bends, traditional methods of cable installation were deemed unsuitable, so Balfour Beatty instead implemented a new system, which uses a motorised machine to drive the cable under and through the ground.

Usually operatives use a winch system and manually guiding the wire through.

This technique maximises efficiencies in cable laying and also improves safety in working practices by automating the process while decreasing cable tension, which reduces the risk of damage to the cable.

Balfour Beatty power transmission and distribution business head of operations Andrew Smith said: “Our engineering excellence combined with our commitment to ensuring the continued reliability of the National Grid network was instrumental in implementing this innovative, forward-thinking approach.

“Deploying bespoke resources and tailoring the solution to the environment allowed for a safer delivery of this complex cable-laying project while also providing the most effective and efficient solution for National Grid.”