Simulation Analysis of Mechanical Properties of Grafted Polypropylene Cable

Polypropylene (PP) is an excellent environmental-friendly cable insulation material with a high melting point, low density, excellent electrical insulation properties, and recyclability. The mechanical properties of PP have an essential influence on its application in cable insulation and play an important role in determining the use of cable. The mechanical properties of the material are usually evaluated using film samples, but they are significantly different from those of actual cable. This paper simulated and analyzed the mechanical properties of pure PP and grafted PP cable insulation materials to compare the mechanical properties of the two insulation materials in cable use. The simulation results showed that the stress and strain of different parts of the cable were different in the force process, and the stress distribution of cable insulation in different radial positions was uneven. The simulation has given a good indication of the stress on the various parts of the cable during deformation, with the surface layer requiring higher mechanical properties due to the more significant deformation. Considering the maximum deformation of the cable during manufacture and use, the stress on the cable was calculated for both insulation materials, and the distribution was analyzed. This study provides a good basis for the development and application of grafted PP cable.