BS 7870-3.50:2023

LV and MV polymeric insulated cables for use by distribution and generation utilities. Distribution cables of rated voltage 0.6/1(1.2) kV. Specification | Status: Current

1 Scope This section of BS 7870 specifies requirements for the construction, dimensions and mechanical and electrical properties of XLPE insulated, concentric copper wire screened waveform or helical cables with solid aluminium conductors having a rated voltage of 0.6/1 (1.2) kV. It is applicable to cables that, when assessed by the specified tests, produce lower levels of smoke and corrosive gases under exposure to fire than cables conforming to BS 7870‑3.40. It specifies requirements for the following types of cable:

• • 3-core, 3-phase, with XLPE insulation, a concentric neutral/earth conductor of copper wires on a synthetic bedding and a thermoplastic oversheath; and
• • 4-core, 3-phase and a separate neutral, with XLPE insulation, a concentric earth conductor of copper wires on a synthetic bedding, and a thermoplastic oversheath.

This section of BS 7870 is applicable to cables that are designed for a maximum continuous conductor operating temperature of 80 °C and for a maximum short circuit conductor temperature of 250 °C.

NOTE Guidance on type testing is given in Annex B.