Simplified Versus Realistic Geometries in Thermal Modelling of Cables Installed in HDD

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is commonly used for installing power cables where conventional trenching is impossible or impractical. However, the increased burial depth and complex geometry of HDD installations significantly affect thermal performance, making accurate modelling essential for safe operation. This paper compares three modelling approaches for current rating calculations in HDD scenarios: a standard 2D cross-section of the deepest part of the HDD, a full 3D modelling of the actual HDD profile, and a simplified 3D approach using the elevated soil profile method (ESPM), which is proposed in this paper.