Electrical field distributions in cable joints are usually simulated by two-dimensional models of electrostatic field. For the 10 kV joints of XLPE cable studied in this paper

because the conductor screen bushing and stress cone are made of semi-conducting materials with low resistivity

it shows by theoretical analysis that the cable joint should be simulated under a quasi-static electrical field. By the finite element method

results from static and quasi-static electrical field are presented and compared. Besides

after a comprehensive analysis on the geometry characteristics of various typical defects

some recommendations are provided. For an intact joint or a joint with retracted cable insulation

a two-dimensional axisymmetric model is preferred for field simulation

in order to obtain the expected calculation accuracy on a decreased workload. However

if there are some scratches or semiconducting particulates on the insulation surface

or else extrusions or air gaps at the end of insulation screen

or extrusions in the conductor screen bushing

the axis symmetry of the cable joint will be destroyed. In this condition

a three-dimensional model must be set up for field simulation of the joint. This paper is of great significance for field simulations of cable accessories and technical specifications of laying and installation.