In underground distribution, what is necessary for protecting cable components?

In underground distribution systems, protecting cable components is critical to ensuring reliability and longevity. The correct choice emphasizes that each component must be shielded from the harmful effects of other components. This is important because components such as cables, connectors, and switchgear can generate heat, electromagnetic interference, or moisture that could adversely affect neighboring components. Proper insulation and structural integrity are necessary to prevent degradation caused by voltage stress, thermal effects, or corrosion from environmental exposure.

By ensuring that each component is adequately protected from the interactions with adjacent parts, the overall system stability is enhanced, reducing the likelihood of failures that could disrupt service or increase maintenance costs.

The focus on shielding from weather exposure, while important for above-ground installations, is less relevant in an underground context where inherent environmental protection is provided by the surrounding soil. The idea that all components should remain ungrounded runs against industry standards aimed at safety and fault protection. Though accessibility for maintenance is significant for operational efficiency, it does not directly pertain to the inter-component interference that the correct answer highlights.