What factors lead to cable oil degradation over time?

Factors contributing to cable oil degradation include:

Thermal Stress: High operating temperatures accelerate oxidation and chemical breakdown.
Moisture Ingress: Water contamination reduces dielectric strength and promotes corrosion.
Oxidation: Exposure to oxygen leads to the formation of acids and sludge.
Contaminants: Particulate matter and dissolved gases can impair insulating properties.
Electrical Stress: High electrical fields can cause ionization and molecular degradation of the oil.
Understanding these factors allows for preventive measures to mitigate degradation.