Prediction of the torsional stiffness of a 24 kV marine power cable

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents a numerical approach based on a simplified, scaled-down finite element (FE) model to predict the dynamic torsional behavior of a 24 kV dynamic power cable (DPC), since torsion-induced FE models are underrepresented in the current literature. This is the first paper to develop an FE model for this particular type of cable (i.e., without metallic armoring), and it is an innovative, new design presented by Nordiske Kabel og Traadfabriker (NKT). It produces unique torsion and traction data which are used to validate and calibrate the numerical model, respectively. The data can be used by cable designers or engineers to validate, compare, or produce their own FE models. The study primarily focuses on estimating the torsional stiffness of the cable, a key mechanical property during early design stages. The FE model is developed using ABAQUS 2025 and calibrated through experimental torsion and traction tests performed at Université Gustave Eiffel in Bouguenais, France. The numerical domain is reduced to a representative section of the cable, enabling efficient modeling while preserving the essential mechanical interactions. To validate the model, simulation results are compared with both experimental data and an analytical axial stress calculation. The results show strong agreement across all approaches, demonstrating the model’s reliability in capturing the linear torsional response of the DPC. This work confirms that a simplified FE model can serve as an effective predictive tool for torsional stiffness in the initial phases of offshore cable design.