Industrial applications of different methods of cross-linking polyethylene

The temperature limits for the continuous and temporary overload operation of cables insulated with low density polyethylene are increased very significantly if the polymer is cross-linked. Two free-radical cross-linking processes, one based on high temperature peroxide vulcanisation and the other on the low temperature cure of an alkoxy silane condensation, are described and compared with radiation induced cross-linking in cable manufacture. (author)