BS 8592:2016

What is BS 8592 – Thermosetting insulated electric cables about?

BS 8592 is a British Standard that specifies requirements and test methods for the construction and performance of non-armoured, single core non-sheathed cables which:

• Have a thermosetting insulation of rated voltage 450/750 V
• Provide resistance to fire (circuit integrity), including mechanical shock, as measured by performance in a standard test
• Emit limited amounts of smoke and corrosive gases when burned as measured by a standard test;
• Are flame retardant
• Are primarily, but not exclusively, intended for use inside metal enclosures such as steel conduit

BS 8592 is applicable to cables for use in fixed installations in industrial areas, buildings, and similar applications, where maintenance of power supply during a fire is required for a defined period of time. The insulation and other components are suitable to permit operation of the cables at a maximum sustained conductor temperature of 90 °C and for a maximum short-circuit conductor temperature of 250 °C (for a maximum of 5 s).

Note 1: Attention is drawn to the fact that the ability of a given cable to meet the test in this standard refers only to the test conditions stated, and the level of performance achieved in a particular installation can be influenced by actual installation conditions.

Note 2: Annex A gives recommendations for the selection, installation and operation of cables. Annex B gives notes on type tests.

Who is BS 8592- Thermosetting insulated electric cables for?

BS 8592 on thermosetting insulated cables is relevant to:

• Manufacturers of power cables and electric cable systems
• Manufacturers of electric conductors
• Communication and electric power transmission lines
• Product design engineers
• Electrical engineers

Why should you use BS 8592 - Thermosetting insulated electric cables?

Thermosetting insulation is used safely with conductor temperatures up to 90°C thus increasing the useful current rating, especially when the ambient temperature is high.

BS 8592 addresses a market need to standardize non-armoured, single core non-sheathed cables as a result of the proliferation of designs and requirements in the market. Performance under fire conditions is assessed on the basis of tests which measure, under defined conditions, fire resistance, flame propagation and emission of smoke and corrosive gases.

BS 8592 provides the maximum permitted voltages against rated voltage of cable, along with guidance on conductors, insulation, and best practices for cable marking and identification.