What is the primary purpose of shielding for medium- and high-voltage cables?

The primary purpose of shielding for medium- and high-voltage cables is to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI). Shielding serves as a barrier that minimizes the effects of electromagnetic fields generated by the cable itself and external sources. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the signals transmitted through the cables, especially in environments where electromagnetic interference can disrupt communication or control systems.

Shielding is designed to contain the electric field generated by the cables, thus reducing the amount of EMI that can leak out or that can affect the signal quality inside the cables. This is particularly important for ensuring that the performance of electronic devices nearby is not compromised by noise and interference that could lead to communication errors or malfunctions.

While other options, such as communication about safety and protection against short circuits, are important aspects of electrical system design, they're not the primary function of cable shielding specifically. Shielding focuses on managing electromagnetic effects rather than directly addressing safety or short-circuit scenarios.