Operating conditions which can lead a dc stressed oil impregnated paper insulation to thermal instability are analyzed. A computing method is developed for this purpose. Tests both on plane models and on cable samples verify the computed behavior. With the characteristics of available insulation, dc cables are thermally stable in service, also for the highest temperatures and stresses which can be considered. Instability on the other hand may arise in accelerated life test conditions and therefore the relevant stresses must be chosen accordingly. Also when ac stressed, the oil impregnated paper is stable at the highest service stresses and temperatures. Accelerated life tests can be run in suitably enhanced conditions.