SIST IEC 60502-2:2022

Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) – Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)

IEC 60502-2:2014 is available as IEC 60502-2:2014 RLV which contains the International Standard and its Redline version, showing all changes of the technical content compared to the previous edition.
IEC 60502-2:2014 specifies the construction, dimensions and test requirements of power cables with extruded solid insulation from 6 kV up to 30 kV for fixed installations such as distribution networks or industrial installations. When determining applications, it is recommended that the possible risk of radial water ingress is considered. Cable designs with barriers claimed to prevent longitudinal water penetration and an associated test are included in this part of IEC 60502. Cables for special installation and service conditions are not included, for example cables for overhead networks, the mining industry, nuclear power plants (in and around the containment area) nor for submarine use or shipboard application. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition, published in 2005, and constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) a simplified calculation procedure for the thickness of the lead sheath and the oversheath;
b) a new subclause for the determination of the cable conductor temperature;
c) a modified procedure for the routine voltage test;
d) a new subclause for a routine electrical test on oversheath;
e) modified requirements for the non-metal sheaths including semi-conductive layer;
f) modified tolerances for the bending test cylinder;
g) the inclusion of a 0,1 Hz test after installation.
In addition, the modified structure of the IEC 60811 series has been adopted for this third edition.

Câbles d'énergie à isolant extrudé et leurs accessoires pour des tensions assignées de 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) – Partie 2: Câbles de tensions assignées de 6 kV(Um = 7,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)

IEC 60502-2:2014 est disponible sous forme de IEC 60502-2:2014 RLV qui contient la Norme internationale et sa version Redline, illustrant les modifications du contenu technique depuis l'édition précédente.
IEC 60502-2:2014 spécifie la constitution, les dimensions et les exigences d'essais des câbles d'énergie à isolation extrudée par diélectriques massifs, de tensions assignées de 6 kV à 30 kV, pour installations fixes telles que les réseaux de distribution ou les installations industrielles. Pour la conception des câbles, il est recommandé de tenir compte du risque possible d'une entrée d'eau radiale. Les câbles dont la conception est déclarée comporter une barrière d'étanchéité longitudinale à l'eau et les essais qui y correspondent sont inclus dans cette partie de la CEI 60502. Les câbles destinés à des conditions particulières d'installations et de service ne sont pas inclus, par exemple, les câbles pour réseaux aériens, pour l'industrie minière, pour les centrales nucléaires (à l'intérieur et à l'extérieur de l'enceinte de confinement), les câbles sous-marins ou les câbles de bord des navires. Cette troisième édition annule et remplace la deuxième édition publiée en 2005 et constitue une révision technique. Des changements techniques significatifs ont été apportés par rapport à la deuxième édition:
a) une procédure de calcul simplifié pour l'épaisseur de la gaine de plomb et de la gaine extérieure;
b) un nouveau paragraphe concernant la détermination de la température de l'âme du câble;
c) une procédure modifiée des essais individuels de tension;
d) un nouveau paragraphe concernant l'essai individuel électrique de la gaine extérieure;
e) les exigences modifiées pour les gaines non métalliques y compris une couche semi-conductrice;
f) les tolérances modifiées concernant l'essai d'enroulement d'un cylindre d'essai;
g) l'ajout d'un essai sous 0,1 Hz après l'installation.
De plus, la structure modifiée de la série CEI 60811 est adoptée dans cette troisième édition.

Elektroenergetski kabli z ekstrudirano izolacijo in njihov pribor za naznačene napetosti od 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) do 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) - 2. del: Kabli za naznačene napetosti od 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) do 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)

Standard IEC 60502-2:2014 je na voljo kot IEC 60502-2:2014 RLV, ki vsebuje mednarodni standard in njegovo različico z revizijami, ki prikazujejo vse spremembe tehnične vsebine v primerjavi s prejšnjo izdajo.
Standard IEC 60502-2:2014 določa izvedbo, dimenzije in preskusne zahteve za elektroenergetske kable, izolirane s trdim ekstrudiranim materialom, z napetostjo od 6 kV do 30 kV, ki se uporabljajo za fiksne napeljave, kot so distribucijska omrežja ali industrijske napeljave. Pri določanju načinov uporabe naj se upošteva morebitno tveganje radialnega vdora vode. Ta del standarda IEC 60502 vključuje zasnove kablov s pregradami, ki naj bi preprečevale vzdolžno prodiranje vode, in s tem povezane preskuse. Kabli, za katere veljajo posebni pogoji namestitve in delovanja, kot so kabli za nadzemna omrežja, rudarsko industrijo, jedrske elektrarne (na kraju samem in v njegovi okolici), uporabo v podmornicah ali na ladjah, niso vključeni. Ta tretja izdaja razveljavlja in nadomešča drugo izdajo, objavljeno leta 2005, in predstavlja tehnično popravljeno izdajo. Ta izdaja v primerjavi s prejšnjo vključuje naslednje pomembne tehnične spremembe:
a) poenostavljen postopek za izračun debeline svinčenega in zunanjega plašča;
b) nova podtočka o določanju temperature kabelskih vodov;
c) spremenjen postopek za rutinski preskus napetosti;
d) nova podtočka o rutinskem električnem preskušanju na zunanjem plašču;
e) spremenjene zahteve za nekovinske plašče, vključno s polprevodnim slojem;
f) spremenjene tolerance za cilinder, ki se uporablja pri preskusu z upogibanjem;
g) vključitev preskusa z 0,1 Hz po namestitvi.
Poleg tega se v tej tretji izdaji uporablja spremenjena struktura skupine standardov IEC 60811.

General Information

• Status: Published In Translation
• Publication Date: 18-Sep-2022
• ICS: 01 - GENERALITIES. TERMINOLOGY. STANDARDIZATION. DOCUMENTATION
• ICS: 29.060.20 - Cables
• ICS: 97.040.50 - Small kitchen appliances
• Technical Committee: SS EIT - Technical Board for the electrotechnical, information technology and telecommunications fields
• Current Stage: 6100 - Translation of adopted SIST standards (Adopted Project)
• Start Date: 11-Apr-2024
• Due Date: 10-Apr-2025
• Ref Project: IEC 60502-2:2014 - Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages from 1 kV (<em>U</em>_m = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (<em>U</em>_m = 36 kV) - Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (<em>U</em>_m = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (<em>U</em>_m = 36 kV)

Overview

SIST IEC 60502-2:2022 (with Amendment 1:2024) is the international standard that defines the construction, dimensions and test requirements for power cables with extruded solid insulation rated from 6 kV (Um = 7.2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) for fixed installations. It covers cable design options (including water-blocking barriers), conductor and insulation materials (e.g., XLPE, EPR/HEPR referenced in test clauses), screening, metal sheaths and armour, oversheaths, and required routine, sample and type tests. This third edition replaces the prior edition and includes technical revisions and the adoption of the modified IEC 60811 test-series structure.

Key technical topics and requirements

• Scope and exclusions: Intended for distribution networks and industrial fixed installations. Excludes overhead, mining, nuclear containment area, submarine and shipboard cables.
• Cable construction and dimensions: Specifies conductor, insulation, conductor and insulation screens, inner coverings, metal layers, armour, lead/other metal sheaths and oversheaths.
• Insulation and sheath materials: Requirements and tests for extruded solid insulation (XLPE, EPR/HEPR where referenced) and non-metallic sheaths.
• Water ingress mitigation: Includes cable designs with barriers claimed to prevent longitudinal water penetration and associated test methods - users are advised to consider radial water ingress risk for applications.
• Testing regime:
  • Routine tests: Conductor resistance, partial discharge, voltage tests (with modified routine voltage test procedure), and a new routine electrical test on oversheath.
  • Sample and type tests: Dimensional checks, 4-hour voltage test, hot-set and mechanical ageing tests, bending tests, partial discharge, tan δ for higher voltages, impulse tests and heating cycle tests.
  • Post-installation test: Inclusion of a 0.1 Hz test after installation.
• Design calculation and tolerances: Simplified procedures for lead sheath and oversheath thickness; modified tolerances for bending test cylinder; a new clause for determining conductor temperature.
• Standards alignment: Adopted the modified structure of the IEC 60811 series for material and test methods.

Practical applications

• Cable design and manufacture for medium-voltage distribution and industrial power systems.
• Specification and procurement of 6–30 kV extruded-insulation power cables.
• Type approval, factory testing and on-site acceptance testing for utilities, EPC contractors and industrial plant operators.
• Risk assessment for water ingress and selection of water-blocking cable designs.

Who should use this standard

• Cable manufacturers and designers
• Testing laboratories and quality assurance engineers
• Utilities and transmission/distribution planners
• Procurement specialists, installers and inspection authorities

Related standards

• IEC 60502-1 (covers 1 kV up to 6 kV)
• IEC 60811 series (material and test methods for cables)
• Other IEC medium-voltage and cable installation standards for installation practice and accessory requirements

Keywords: IEC 60502-2, power cables with extruded insulation, rated voltages 6 kV to 30 kV, XLPE, EPR, routine tests, type tests, water-blocking, medium-voltage cables.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-oktober-2022
Elektroenergetski kabli z ekstrudirano izolacijo in njihov pribor za naznačene
napetosti od 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) do 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) - 2. del: Kabli za naznačene
napetosti od 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) do 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages from 1 kV
(Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) – Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV
(Um = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Câbles d'énergie à isolant extrudé et leurs accessoires pour des tensions assignées de 1
kV (Um = 1,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) – Partie 2: Câbles de tensions assignées de 6
kV(Um = 7,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: IEC 60502-2:2014
ICS:
29.060.20 Kabli Cables
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.0 2014-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages

from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –

Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to

30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Câbles d'énergie à isolant extrudé et leurs accessoires pour des tensions

assignées de 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –

Partie 2: Câbles de tensions assignées de 6 kV(Um = 7,2 kV) à

30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX XC
ICS 29.060.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-1409-1

– 2 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 10
1 Scope . 12
2 Normative references . 12
3 Terms and definitions . 14
3.1 Definitions of dimensional values (thicknesses, cross-sections, etc.) . 14
3.2 Definitions concerning the tests . 14
4 Voltage designations and materials . 15
4.1 Rated voltages . 15
4.2 Insulating compounds. 16
4.3 Sheathing compounds . 17
5 Conductors . 17
6 Insulation . 17
6.1 Material . 17
6.2 Insulation thickness . 17
7 Screening . 19
7.1 General . 19
7.2 Conductor screen . 19
7.3 Insulation screen . 19
8 Assembly of three-core cables, inner coverings and fillers . 19
8.1 General . 19
8.2 Inner coverings and fillers . 19
8.2.1 Construction . 19
8.2.2 Material . 20
8.2.3 Thickness of extruded inner covering . 20
8.2.4 Thickness of lapped inner covering . 20
8.3 Cables having a collective metal layer (see Clause 9) . 20
8.4 Cables having a metal layer over each individual core (see Clause 10) . 20
9 Metal layers for single-core and three-core cables . 21
10 Metal screen . 21
10.1 Construction . 21
10.2 Requirements . 21
10.3 Metal screens not associated with semi-conducting layers . 21
11 Concentric conductor . 21
11.1 Construction . 21
11.2 Requirements . 21
11.3 Application . 22
12 Metal sheath . 22
12.1 Lead sheath . 22
12.2 Other metal sheaths . 22
13 Metal armour . 22
13.1 Types of metal armour . 22
13.2 Materials . 22
13.3 Application of armour . 23
13.3.1 Single-core cables . 23
13.3.2 Three-core cables . 23

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 3 –
13.3.3 Separation sheath . 23
13.3.4 Lapped bedding under armour for lead sheathed cables . 23
13.4 Dimensions of the armour wires and armour tapes. 24
13.5 Correlation between cable diameters and armour dimensions . 24
13.6 Round or flat wire armour . 24
13.7 Double tape armour . 25
14 Oversheath . 25
14.1 General . 25
14.2 Material . 25
14.3 Thickness . 25
15 Test conditions . 26
15.1 Ambient temperature . 26
15.2 Frequency and waveform of power frequency test voltages . 26
15.3 Waveform of impulse test voltages . 26
15.4 Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 26
16 Routine tests . 26
16.1 General . 26
16.2 Electrical resistance of conductors . 26
16.3 Partial discharge test . 27
16.4 Voltage test . 27
16.4.1 General . 27
16.4.2 Test procedure for single-core cables . 27
16.4.3 Test procedure for three-core cables . 27
16.4.4 Test voltage . 27
16.4.5 Requirement . 28
16.5 Electrical test on oversheath of the cable . 28
17 Sample tests . 28
17.1 General . 28
17.2 Frequency of sample tests . 28
17.2.1 Conductor examination and check of dimensions . 28
17.2.2 Electrical and physical tests . 28
17.3 Repetition of tests . 29
17.4 Conductor examination . 29
17.5 Measurement of thickness of insulation and of non-metal sheaths
(including extruded separation sheaths, but excluding inner extruded
coverings) . 29
17.5.1 General . 29
17.5.2 Requirements for the insulation . 29
17.5.3 Requirements for the non-metal sheaths . 30
17.6 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 30
17.6.1 General . 30
17.6.2 Strip method . 30
17.6.3 Ring method . 30
17.7 Measurement of armour wires and tapes . 30
17.7.1 Measurement on wires . 30
17.7.2 Measurement on tapes . 31
17.7.3 Requirements . 31
17.8 Measurement of external diameter . 31
17.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 31

– 4 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
17.9.1 Sampling . 31
17.9.2 Procedure . 31
17.9.3 Test voltages . 31
17.9.4 Requirements . 31
17.10 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 31
17.10.1 Procedure . 31
17.10.2 Requirements . 32
18 Type tests, electrical . 32
18.1 General . 32
18.2 Cables having conductor screens and insulation screens . 32
18.2.1 General . 32
18.2.2 Sequence of tests . 32
18.2.3 Special provisions . 32
18.2.4 Bending test . 33
18.2.5 Partial discharge test . 33
18.2.6 Tan δ measurement for cables of rated voltage 6/10 (12) kV
and above . 33
18.2.7 Heating cycle test . 34
18.2.8 Impulse test followed by a voltage test . 34
18.2.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 34
18.2.10 Resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 35
18.3 Cables of rated voltage 3,6/6 (7,2) kV having unscreened insulation . 35
18.3.1 General . 35
18.3.2 Insulation resistance measurement at ambient temperature . 35
18.3.3 Insulation resistance measurement at maximum conductor
temperature . 36
18.3.4 Voltage test for 4 h . 36
18.3.5 Impulse test . 37
19 Type tests, non-electrical . 37
19.1 General . 37
19.2 Measurement of thickness of insulation . 37
19.2.1 Sampling . 37
19.2.2 Procedure . 37
19.2.3 Requirements . 37
19.3 Measurement of thickness of non-metal sheaths (including extruded
separation sheaths, but excluding inner coverings) . 37
19.3.1 Sampling . 37
19.3.2 Procedure . 37
19.3.3 Requirements . 38
19.4 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 38
19.4.1 Sampling . 38
19.4.2 Procedure . 38
19.4.3 Requirements . 38
19.5 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of insulation before and
after ageing . 38
19.5.1 Sampling . 38
19.5.2 Ageing treatments . 38
19.5.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 38
19.5.4 Requirements . 38

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 5 –
19.6 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of non-metal sheaths
before and after ageing . 38
19.6.1 Sampling . 38
19.6.2 Ageing treatments . 38
19.6.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 38
19.6.4 Requirements . 39
19.7 Additional ageing test on pieces of completed cables . 39
19.7.1 General . 39
19.7.2 Sampling . 39
19.7.3 Ageing treatment . 39
19.7.4 Mechanical tests . 39
19.7.5 Requirements . 39
19.8 Loss of mass test on PVC sheaths of type ST . 39
19.8.1 Procedure . 39
19.8.2 Requirements . 39
19.9 Pressure test at high temperature on insulations and non-metal sheaths . 39
19.9.1 Procedure . 39
19.9.2 Requirements . 39
19.10 Test on PVC insulation and sheaths at low temperatures . 40
19.10.1 Procedure . 40
19.10.2 Requirements . 40
19.11 Test for resistance of PVC insulation and sheaths to cracking (heat shock
test) . 40
19.11.1 Procedure . 40
19.11.2 Requirements . 40
19.12 Ozone resistance test for EPR and HEPR insulations . 40
19.12.1 Procedure . 40
19.12.2 Requirements . 40
19.13 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 40
19.14 Oil immersion test for elastomeric sheaths . 40
19.14.1 Procedure . 40
19.14.2 Requirements . 40
19.15 Water absorption test on insulation . 40
19.15.1 Procedure . 40
19.15.2 Requirements . 40
19.16 Flame spread test on single cables . 41
19.17 Measurement of carbon black content of black PE oversheaths . 41
19.17.1 Procedure . 41
19.17.2 Requirements . 41
19.18 Shrinkage test for XLPE insulation . 41
19.18.1 Procedure . 41
19.18.2 Requirements . 41
19.19 Thermal stability test for PVC insulation . 41
19.19.1 Procedure . 41
19.19.2 Requirements . 41
19.20 Determination of hardness of HEPR insulation . 41
19.20.1 Procedure . 41
19.20.2 Requirements . 41
19.21 Determination of the elastic modulus of HEPR insulation . 41

– 6 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
19.21.1 Procedure . 41
19.21.2 Requirements . 42
19.22 Shrinkage test for PE oversheaths . 42
19.22.1 Procedure . 42
19.22.2 Requirements . 42
19.23 Strippability test for insulation screen . 42
19.23.1 General . 42
19.23.2 Procedure . 42
19.23.3 Requirements . 42
19.24 Water penetration test . 43
20 Electrical tests after installation . 43
20.1 General . 43
20.2 DC voltage test of the oversheath . 43
20.3 Insulation test. 43
20.3.1 AC testing . 43
20.3.2 DC testing . 44
Annex A (normative) Fictitious calculation method for determination of dimensions of
protective coverings . 50
A.1 General . 50
A.2 Method . 50
A.2.1 Conductors . 50
A.2.2 Cores. 51
A.2.3 Diameter over laid-up cores . 51
A.2.4 Inner coverings . 51
A.2.5 Concentric conductors and metal screens . 52
A.2.6 Lead sheath . 53
A.2.7 Separation sheath . 53
A.2.8 Lapped bedding . 53
A.2.9 Additional bedding for tape-armoured cables (provided over
the inner covering) . 53
A.2.10 Armour . 54
Annex B (informative) Tabulated continuous current ratings for cables having extruded
insulation and a rated voltage from 3,6/6 kV up to 18/30 kV . 55
B.1 General . 55
B.2 Cable constructions . 55
B.3 Temperatures. 55
B.4 Soil thermal resistivity . 56
B.5 Methods of installation . 56
B.5.1 General . 56
B.5.2 Single-core cables in air . 56
B.5.3 Single-core cables buried direct . 56
B.5.4 Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 57
B.5.5 Three-core cables . 57
B.6 Screen bonding . 58
B.7 Cable loading . 58
B.8 Rating factors for grouped circuits . 58
B.9 Correction factors . 58
Annex C (normative) Rounding of numbers. 74
C.1 Rounding of numbers for the purpose of the fictitious calculation method . 74

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 7 –
C.2 Rounding of numbers for other purposes . 74
Annex D (normative) Method of measuring resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 75
Annex E (normative) Determination of hardness of HEPR insulations . 78
E.1 Test piece . 78
E.2 Test procedure . 78
E.2.1 General . 78
E.2.2 Surfaces of large radius of curvature . 78
E.2.3 Surfaces of small radius of curvature . 78
E.2.4 Conditioning and test temperature . 78
E.2.5 Number of measurements . 79
Annex F (normative) Water penetration test . 80
F.1 Test piece . 80
F.2 Test . 80
F.3 Requirements . 81
Annex G (informative) Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 82
G.1 Purpose . 82
G.2 Calibration of the temperature of the main test loop . 82
G.2.1 General . 82
G.2.2 Installation of cable and temperature sensors . 82
G.2.3 Calibration method . 84
G.3 Heating for the test . 85
G.3.1 Method 1 – Test using a reference cable . 85
G.3.2 Method 2 – Test using conductor temperature calculations and
measurement of the surface temperature . 85
Bibliography . 87

Figure B.1 – Single-core cables in air . 56
Figure B.2 – Single-core cables buried direct . 57
Figure B.3 – Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 57
Figure B.4 – Three-core cables . 58
Figure D.1 – Preparation of samples for measurement of resistivity of conductor and
insulation screens . 77
Figure E.1 – Test on surfaces of large radius of curvature . 79
Figure E.2 – Test on surfaces of small radius of curvature . 79
Figure F.1 – Schematic diagram of apparatus for water penetration test . 81
Figure G.1 – Typical test set-up for the reference loop and the main test loop . 83
Figure G.2 – Example of an arrangement of the temperature sensors on the conductor
of the reference loop . 84

Table 1 – Recommended rated voltages U . 16
Table 2 – Insulating compounds . 16
Table 3 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of insulating compound . 16
Table 4 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of sheathing compound . 17
Table 5 – Nominal thickness of PVC/B insulation . 18
Table 6 – Nominal thickness of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation . 18

– 8 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
Table 7 – Nominal thickness of ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and hard ethylene
propylene rubber (HEPR) insulation . 18
Table 8 – Thickness of extruded inner covering . 20
Table 9 – Nominal diameter of round armour wires . 24
Table 10 – Nominal thickness of armour tapes . 24
Table 11 – Routine test voltages . 28
Table 12 – Number of samples for sample tests . 29
Table 13 – Sample test voltages . 31
Table 14 – Impulse voltages . 34
Table 15 – Electrical type test requirements for insulating compounds . 44
Table 16 – Non-electrical type tests (see Tables 17 to 23) . 44
Table 17 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of insulating compounds
(before and after ageing) . 45
Table 18 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC insulating
compound . 46
Table 19 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of various crosslinked
insulating compounds . 47
Table 20 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of sheathing compounds

(before and after ageing) . 47
Table 21 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC sheathing
compounds . 48
Table 22 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of PE (thermoplastic
polyethylene) sheathing compounds . 48
Table 23 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of elastomeric sheathing
compound . 49
Table A.1 – Fictitious diameter of conductor . 51
Table A.2 – Increase of diameter for concentric conductors and metal screens . 52
Table A.3 – Increase of diameter for additional bedding . 53
Table B.1 – Nominal screen cross-sectional areas . 55
Table B.2 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 59
Table B.3 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 60
Table B.4 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 61
Table B.5 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 62
Table B.6 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured. 63
Table B.7 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 64
Table B.8 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage 3,6/6 kV
to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 65
Table B.9 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage 3,6/6 kV

to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 66
Table B.10 – Correction factors for ambient air temperatures other than 30 °C . 66
Table B.11 – Correction factors for ambient ground temperatures other than 20 °C . 67

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 9 –
Table B.12 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for direct buried
cables . 67
Table B.13 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for cables in ducts . 67
.
Table B.14 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
direct buried single-core cables . 68
.
Table B.15 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W
single-core cables in buried ducts. 68
.
Table B.16 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
direct buried three-core cables . 69
.
Table B.17 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
three-core cables in ducts . 69
Table B.18 – Correction factors for groups of three-core cables in horizontal formation
laid direct in the ground . 70
Table B.19 – Correction factors for groups of three-phase circuits of single-core cables
laid direct in the ground . 70
Table B.20 – Correction factors for groups of three-core cables in single way ducts in

horizontal formation . 71
Table B.21 – Correction factors for groups of three-phase circuits of single-core cables
in single-way ducts . 71
Table B.22 – Reduction factors for groups of more than one multi-core cable in air – To
be applied to the current-carrying capacity for one multi-core cable in free air . 72
Table B.23 – Reduction factors for groups of more than one circuit of single-core cables
(Note 2) – To be applied to the current-carrying capacity for one circuit of single-core
cables in free air . 73

– 10 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
POWER CABLES WITH EXTRUDED INSULATION
AND THEIR ACCESSORIES FOR RATED VOLTAGES
FROM 1 kV (U = 1,2 kV) UP TO 30 kV (U = 36 kV) –
m m
Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV
(U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
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3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability sha
...

IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.1 2024-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages
from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –
Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
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IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.1 2024-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages
from 1 kV (U = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV) –
m m
Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.060.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-9033-0
REDLINE VERSION – 2 – IEC 60502-2:2014+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 11
1 Scope . 13
2 Normative references . 13
3 Terms and definitions . 15
3.1 Definitions of dimensional values (thicknesses, cross-sections, etc.) . 15
3.2 Definitions concerning the tests . 16
4 Voltage designations and materials . 16
4.1 Rated voltages . 16
4.2 Insulating compounds . 17
4.3 Sheathing compounds . 18
5 Conductors . 19
6 Insulation. 19
6.1 Material . 19
6.2 Insulation thickness . 19
7 Screening . 20
7.1 General . 20
7.2 Conductor screen . 20
7.3 Insulation screen . 20
8 Assembly of three-core cables, inner coverings and fillers . 21
8.1 General . 21
8.2 Inner coverings and fillers . 21
8.2.1 Construction . 21
8.2.2 Material . 21
8.2.3 Thickness of extruded inner covering . 21
8.2.4 Thickness of lapped inner covering . 21
8.3 Cables having a collective metal layer (see Clause 9) . 22
8.4 Cables having a metal layer over each individual core (see Clause 10) . 22
9 Metal layers for single-core and three-core cables . 22
10 Metal screen . 22
10.1 Construction . 22
10.2 Requirements . 23
10.3 Metal screens not associated with semi-conducting layers . 23
11 Concentric conductor . 23
11.1 Construction . 23
11.2 Requirements . 23
11.3 Application . 23
12 Metal sheath . 23
12.1 Lead sheath . 23
12.2 Other metal sheaths . 23
13 Metal armour . 24
13.1 Types of metal armour . 24
13.2 Materials . 24
13.3 Application of armour . 24
13.3.1 Single-core cables . 24
13.3.2 Three-core cables . 24

© IEC 2024
13.3.3 Separation sheath . 24
13.3.4 Lapped bedding under armour for lead sheathed cables . 25
13.4 Dimensions of the armour wires, and armour tapes and armour strips . 25
13.5 Correlation between cable diameters and armour dimensions . 25
13.6 Round or flat wire armour . 26
13.7 Double tape armour . 26
13.8 Interlock metal tape armour . 27
14 Oversheath . 27
14.1 General . 27
14.2 Material . 27
14.3 Thickness . 28
15 Test conditions . 28
15.1 Ambient temperature. 28
15.2 Frequency and waveform of power frequency test voltages . 28
15.3 Waveform of impulse test voltages . 28
15.4 Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 28
16 Routine tests . 29
16.1 General . 29
16.2 Electrical resistance of conductors . 29
16.3 Partial discharge test . 29
16.4 Voltage test . 29
16.4.1 General . 29
16.4.2 Test procedure for single-core cables . 30
16.4.3 Test procedure for three-core cables . 30
16.4.4 Test voltage . 30
16.4.5 Requirement . 30
16.5 Electrical test on oversheath of the cable . 30
17 Sample tests . 30
17.1 General . 30
17.2 Frequency of sample tests . 31
17.2.1 Conductor examination and check of dimensions . 31
17.2.2 Electrical and physical tests . 31
17.3 Repetition of tests . 31
17.4 Conductor examination . 31
17.5 Measurement of thickness of insulation and of non-metal sheaths
(including extruded separation sheaths, but excluding inner extruded
coverings) . 31
17.5.1 General . 31
17.5.2 Requirements for the insulation . 31
17.5.3 Requirements for the non-metal sheaths . 32
17.6 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 32
17.6.1 General . 32
17.6.2 Strip method . 32
17.6.3 Ring method . 32
17.7 Measurement of armour wires, and tapes and armour strips . 33
17.7.1 Measurement on wires . 33
17.7.2 Measurement on tapes and armour strips . 33
17.7.3 Requirements . 33

REDLINE VERSION – 4 – IEC 60502-2:2014+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
17.8 Measurement of external diameter . 33
17.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 33
17.9.1 Sampling . 33
17.9.2 Procedure . 33
17.9.3 Test voltages . 33
17.9.4 Requirements . 34
17.10 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 34
17.10.1 Procedure . 34
17.10.2 Requirements . 34
17.11 Bending test on interlock armour cable followed by examination . 34
18 Type tests, electrical . 34
18.1 General . 34
18.2 Cables having conductor screens and insulation screens . 34
18.2.1 General . 34
18.2.2 Sequence of tests . 35
18.2.3 Special provisions . 35
18.2.4 Bending test . 35
18.2.5 Partial discharge test . 36
18.2.6 Tan δ measurement for cables of rated voltage 6/10 (12) kV
and above. 36
18.2.7 Heating cycle test . 36
18.2.8 Impulse test followed by a voltage test . 37
18.2.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 37
18.2.10 Resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 37
18.3 Cables of rated voltage 3,6/6 (7,2) kV having unscreened insulation . 38
18.3.1 General . 38
18.3.2 Insulation resistance measurement at ambient temperature . 38
18.3.3 Insulation resistance measurement at maximum conductor
temperature . 39
18.3.4 Voltage test for 4 h . 39
18.3.5 Impulse test . 39
19 Type tests, non-electrical . 40
19.1 General . 40
19.2 Measurement of thickness of insulation . 40
19.2.1 Sampling . 40
19.2.2 Procedure . 40
19.2.3 Requirements . 40
19.3 Measurement of thickness of non-metal sheaths (including extruded
separation sheaths, but excluding inner coverings) . 40
19.3.1 Sampling . 40
19.3.2 Procedure . 40
19.3.3 Requirements . 40
19.4 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 40
19.4.1 Sampling . 40
19.4.2 Procedure . 40
19.4.3 Requirements . 40
19.5 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of insulation before and
after ageing . 40

© IEC 2024
19.5.1 Sampling . 40
19.5.2 Ageing treatments . 41
19.5.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 41
19.5.4 Requirements . 41
19.6 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of non-metal sheaths
before and after ageing . 41
19.6.1 Sampling . 41
19.6.2 Ageing treatments . 41
19.6.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 41
19.6.4 Requirements . 41
19.7 Additional ageing test on pieces of completed cables . 41
19.7.1 General . 41
19.7.2 Sampling . 41
19.7.3 Ageing treatment . 41
19.7.4 Mechanical tests . 42
19.7.5 Requirements . 42
19.8 Loss of mass test on PVC sheaths of type ST . 42
19.8.1 Procedure . 42
19.8.2 Requirements . 42
19.9 Pressure test at high temperature on insulations and non-metal sheaths . 42
19.9.1 Procedure . 42
19.9.2 Requirements . 42
19.10 Test on PVC insulation, and PVC sheaths and halogen free sheaths at
low temperatures . 42
19.10.1 Procedure . 42
19.10.2 Requirements . 42
19.11 Test for resistance of PVC insulation and sheaths to cracking (heat shock
test) . 42
19.11.1 Procedure . 42
19.11.2 Requirements . 42
19.12 Ozone resistance test for EPR and HEPR insulations . 43
19.12.1 Procedure . 43
19.12.2 Requirements . 43
19.13 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 43
19.14 Oil immersion test for elastomeric sheaths . 43
19.14.1 Procedure . 43
19.14.2 Requirements . 43
19.15 Water absorption test on insulation . 43
19.15.1 Procedure . 43
19.15.2 Requirements . 43
19.16 Flame spread test on single cables .
19.16 Test under fire conditions . 43
19.16.1 General . 43
19.16.2 Flame spread test for single cables . 43
19.16.3 Flame spread test for bunched cables . 44
19.16.4 Measurement of smoke density of cables burning under
defined conditions . 44

REDLINE VERSION – 6 – IEC 60502-2:2014+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
19.16.5 Determination of acidity (by pH measurement) and
conductivity of gases evolved during combustion of the non-
metallic materials in the cable . 44
19.16.6 Fire performance tests on halogen free oversheath material
ST . 44
19.16.7 Fire performance tests on halogen free oversheath material
ST . 45
19.16.8 Measurement of halogen content of gases evolved during
combustion of the non-metallic materials in the cable . 45
19.17 Measurement of carbon black content of black PE oversheaths . 45
19.17.1 Procedure . 45
19.17.2 Requirements . 45
19.18 Shrinkage test for XLPE insulation . 46
19.18.1 Procedure . 46
19.18.2 Requirements . 46
19.19 Thermal stability test for PVC insulation . 46
19.19.1 Procedure . 46
19.19.2 Requirements . 46
19.20 Determination of hardness of HEPR insulation . 46
19.20.1 Procedure . 46
19.20.2 Requirements . 46
19.21 Determination of the elastic modulus of HEPR insulation . 46
19.21.1 Procedure . 46
19.21.2 Requirements . 46
19.22 Shrinkage test for PE and halogen free oversheaths . 46
19.22.1 Procedure . 46
19.22.2 Requirements . 46
19.23 Strippability test for insulation screen . 47
19.23.1 General . 47
19.23.2 Procedure . 47
19.23.3 Requirements . 47
19.24 Water penetration test . 47
19.25 Additional tests on halogen free oversheath of type ST . 48
19.25.1 General . 48
19.25.2 Water absorption test for halogen free oversheath of type ST . 48
19.25.3 Abrasion test on halogen free oversheath of type ST . 48
19.26 Bending test on interlock armour . 48
20 Electrical tests after installation . 48
20.1 General . 48
20.2 DC voltage test of the oversheath . 48
20.3 Insulation test AC voltage test of the insulation . 48
Annex A (normative) Fictitious calculation method for determination of dimensions of
protective coverings . 58
A.1 General . 58
A.2 Method . 58
A.2.1 Conductors . 58
A.2.2 Cores . 59
A.2.3 Diameter over laid-up cores . 59
A.2.4 Inner coverings . 59
A.2.5 Concentric conductors and metal screens . 60

© IEC 2024
A.2.6 Lead sheath . 61
A.2.7 Separation sheath . 61
A.2.8 Lapped bedding . 61
A.2.9 Additional bedding for tape-armoured cables (provided over
the inner covering) . 62
A.2.10 Armour . 62
Annex B (informative) Tabulated continuous current ratings for cables having extruded
insulation and a rated voltage from 3,6/6 kV up to 18/30 kV . 63
B.1 General . 63
B.2 Cable constructions . 63
B.3 Temperatures . 63
B.4 Soil thermal resistivity . 64
B.5 Methods of installation . 64
B.5.1 General . 64
B.5.2 Single-core cables in air . 64
B.5.3 Single-core cables buried direct . 64
B.5.4 Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 65
B.5.5 Three-core cables . 65
B.6 Screen bonding . 66
B.7 Cable loading . 66
B.8 Rating factors for grouped circuits . 66
B.9 Correction factors . 66
Annex C (normative) Rounding of numbers . 82
C.1 Rounding of numbers for the purpose of the fictitious calculation method . 82
C.2 Rounding of numbers for other purposes . 82
Annex D (normative) Method of measuring resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 83
Annex E (normative) Determination of hardness of HEPR insulations . 86
E.1 Test piece . 86
E.2 Test procedure . 86
E.2.1 General . 86
E.2.2 Surfaces of large radius of curvature . 86
E.2.3 Surfaces of small radius of curvature . 86
E.2.4 Conditioning and test temperature . 86
E.2.5 Number of measurements . 87
Annex F (normative) Water penetration test . 88
F.1 Test piece . 88
F.2 Test . 88
F.3 Requirements . 89
Annex G (informative) Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 90
G.1 Purpose . 90
G.2 Calibration of the temperature of the main test loop . 90
G.2.1 General . 90
G.2.2 Installation of cable and temperature sensors . 90
G.2.3 Calibration method . 92
G.3 Heating for the test . 93
G.3.1 Method 1 – Test using a reference cable . 93
G.3.2 Method 2 – Test using conductor temperature calculations
and measurement of the surface temperature . 93

REDLINE VERSION – 8 – IEC 60502-2:2014+AMD1:2024 CSV
© IEC 2024
Annex H (normative) Test for water penetration in the conductor . 95
H.1 General . 95
H.2 Test piece . 95
H.3 Test . 95
H.4 Requirements . 95
Annex I (normative) Methods of determining the weighted value of halogen content of
the non-metallic materials in the cable . 97
I.1 Calculating the weighted value of the cable when the halogen content of
individual materials is tested . 97
I.2 Preparation of the test sample for measurement of halogen content on a
sample representative of the non-metallic materials in the cable . 97
Bibliography . 98

Figure B.1 – Single-core cables in air . 64
Figure B.2 – Single-core cables buried direct . 65
Figure B.3 – Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 65
Figure B.4 – Three-core cables . 66
Figure D.1 – Preparation of samples for measurement of resistivity of conductor and
insulation screens . 85
Figure E.1 – Test on surfaces of large radius of curvature . 87
Figure E.2 – Test on surfaces of small radius of curvature . 87
Figure F.1 – Schematic diagram of apparatus for water penetration test . 89
Figure G.1 – Typical test set-up for the reference loop and the main test loop . 91
Figure G.2 – Example of an arrangement of the temperature sensors on the conductor
of the reference loop . 92
Figure H.1 – Schematic diagram of apparatus for water penetration test in the
conductor . 96

Table 1 – Recommended rated voltages U . 17
Table 2 – Insulating compounds. 17
Table 3 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of insulating compound . 18
Table 4 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of sheathing compound . 18
Table 5 – Nominal thickness of PVC/B insulation . 19
Table 6 – Nominal thickness of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation . 19
Table 7 – Nominal thickness of ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and hard ethylene
propylene rubber (HEPR) insulation . 20
Table 8 – Thickness of extruded inner covering . 21
Table 9 – Nominal diameter of round armour wires . 26
Table 10 – Nominal thickness of armour tapes . 26
Table 24 – Nominal thickness of armour strips . 26
Table 11 – Routine test voltages . 30
Table 12 – Number of samples for sample tests . 31
Table 13 – Sample test voltages . 34
Table 14 – Impulse voltages . 37
Table 15 – Electrical type test requirements for insulating compounds . 49
Table 16 – Non-electrical type tests (see Table 17 to Table 23 and Table 25) . 50

© IEC 2024
Table 17 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of insulating compounds
(before and after ageing) . 51
Table 18 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC insulating
compound . 52
Table 19 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of various crosslinked
insulating compounds . 53
Table 20 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of sheathing compounds
(before and after ageing) . 54
Table 21 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC sheathing
compounds . 54
Table 22 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of PE (thermoplastic
polyethylene) sheathing compounds . 55
Table 23 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of elastomeric sheathing
compound . 55
Table 25 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of halogen free sheathing
compounds . 56
Table A.1 – Fictitious diameter of conductor . 59
Table A.2 – Increase of diameter for concentric conductors and metal screens . 60
Table A.3 – Increase of diameter for additional bedding . 62
Table A.4 – Increase of diameter over interlocked armour. 62
Table B.1 – Nominal screen cross-sectional areas . 63
Table B.2 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 67
Table B.3 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 68
Table B.4 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 69
Table B.5 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 70
Table B.6 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 71
Table B.7 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 72
Table B.8 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 73
Table B.9 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 74
Table B.10 – Correction factors for ambient air temperatures other than 30 °C . 74
Table B.11 – Correction factors for ambient ground temperatures other than 20 °C . 75
Table B.12 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for direct buried
cables . 75
Table B.13 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for cables in
ducts . 75
.
Table B.14 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities
...

IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.0 2014-02
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages
from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –
Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to
30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
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copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication, please contact the address below or
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Switzerland www.iec.ch
About the IEC
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

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IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.0 2014-02
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages

from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –

Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to

30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.060.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-1457-2

– 2 – 60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014
CONTENTS
CONTENTS . 2
FOREWORD . 10

1 Scope . 12
2 Normative references . 12
3 Terms and definitions . 14
3.1 Definitions of dimensional values (thicknesses, cross-sections, etc.) . 14
3.2 Definitions concerning the tests . 15
4 Voltage designations and materials . 15
4.1 Rated voltages . 15
4.2 Insulating compounds. 16
4.3 Sheathing compounds . 17
5 Conductors . 18
6 Insulation . 18
6.1 Material . 18
6.2 Insulation thickness . 18
7 Screening . 19
7.1 General . 19
7.2 Conductor screen . 20
7.3 Insulation screen . 20
8 Assembly of three-core cables, inner coverings and fillers . 20
8.1 General . 20
8.2 Inner coverings and fillers . 20
8.2.1 Construction . 20
8.2.2 Material . 20
8.2.3 Thickness of extruded inner covering . 20
8.2.4 Thickness of lapped inner covering . 21
8.3 Cables having a collective metallic layer (see Clause 9) . 21
8.4 Cables having a metallic layer over each individual core (see Clause 10) . 21
9 Metallic layers for single-core and three-core cables . 21
10 Metallic screen. 22
10.1 Construction . 22
10.2 Requirements . 22
10.3 Metallic screens not associated with semi-conducting layers . 22
11 Concentric conductor . 22
11.1 Construction . 22
11.2 Requirements . 22
11.3 Application . 22
12 Metallic sheath . 23
12.1 Lead sheath . 23
12.2 Other metallic sheaths . 23
13 Metallic armour . 23
13.1 Types of metallic armour . 23
13.2 Materials . 23

60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014 – 3 –
13.3 Application of armour . 24
13.3.1 Single-core cables . 24
13.3.2 Three-core cables . 24
13.3.3 Separation sheath . 24
13.3.4 Lapped bedding under armour for lead sheathed cables . 24
13.4 Dimensions of the armour wires and armour tapes. 25
13.5 Correlation between cable diameters and armour dimensions . 25
13.6 Round or flat wire armour . 25
13.7 Double tape armour . 26
14 Oversheath . 26
14.1 General . 26
14.2 Material . 26
14.3 Thickness . 26
15 Test conditions . 27
15.1 Ambient temperature . 27
15.2 Frequency and waveform of power frequency test voltages . 27
15.3 Waveform of impulse test voltages . 27
15.4 Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 27
16 Routine tests . 27
16.1 General . 27
16.2 Electrical resistance of conductors . 28
16.3 Partial discharge test . 28
16.4 Voltage test . 28
16.4.1 General . 28
16.4.2 Test procedure for single-core cables . 28
16.4.3 Test procedure for three-core cables . 28
16.4.4 Test voltage . 29
16.4.5 Requirement . 29
16.5 Electrical test on oversheath of the cable . 29
17 Sample tests . 29
17.1 General . 29
17.2 Frequency of sample tests . 29
17.2.1 Conductor examination and check of dimensions . 29
17.2.2 Electrical and physical tests . 29
17.3 Repetition of tests . 30
17.4 Conductor examination . 30
17.5 Measurement of thickness of insulation and of non-metallic sheaths
(including extruded separation sheaths, but excluding inner extruded
coverings) . 30
17.5.1 General . 30
17.5.2 Requirements for the insulation . 30
17.5.3 Requirements for the non-metallic sheaths . 31
17.6 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 31
17.6.1 General . 31
17.6.2 Strip method . 31
17.6.3 Ring method . 31

– 4 – 60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014
17.7 Measurement of armour wires and tapes . 32
17.7.1 Measurement on wires . 32
17.7.2 Measurement on tapes . 32
17.7.3 Requirements . 32
17.8 Measurement of external diameter . 32
17.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 32
17.9.1 Sampling . 32
17.9.2 Procedure . 32
17.9.3 Test voltages . 32
17.9.4 Requirements . 33
17.10 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 33
17.10.1 Procedure . 33
17.10.2 Requirements . 33
18 Type tests, electrical . 33
18.1 General . 33
18.2 Cables having conductor screens and insulation screens . 33
18.2.1 General . 33
18.2.2 Sequence of tests . 33
18.2.3 Special provisions . 34
18.2.4 Bending test . 34
18.2.5 Partial discharge test . 34
18.2.6 Tan δ measurement for cables of rated voltage 6/10 (12) kV
and above . 35
18.2.7 Heating cycle test . 35
18.2.8 Impulse test followed by a voltage test . 35
18.2.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 36
18.2.10 Resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 36
18.3 Cables of rated voltage 3,6/6 (7,2) kV having unscreened insulation . 36
18.3.1 General . 36
18.3.2 Insulation resistance measurement at ambient temperature . 36
18.3.3 Insulation resistance measurement at maximum conductor
temperature . 37
18.3.4 Voltage test for 4 h . 38
18.3.5 Impulse test . 38
19 Type tests, non-electrical . 38
19.1 General . 38
19.2 Measurement of thickness of insulation . 38
19.2.1 Sampling . 38
19.2.2 Procedure . 38
19.2.3 Requirements . 38
19.3 Measurement of thickness of non-metallic sheaths (including extruded
separation sheaths, but excluding inner coverings) . 39
19.3.1 Sampling . 39
19.3.2 Procedure . 39
19.3.3 Requirements . 39

60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014 – 5 –
19.4 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 39
19.4.1 Sampling . 39
19.4.2 Procedure . 39
19.4.3 Requirements . 39
19.5 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of insulation before and
after ageing . 39
19.5.1 Sampling . 39
19.5.2 Ageing treatments . 39
19.5.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 39
19.5.4 Requirements . 39
19.6 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of non-metallic sheaths
before and after ageing . 39
19.6.1 Sampling . 39
19.6.2 Ageing treatments . 40
19.6.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 40
19.6.4 Requirements . 40
19.7 Additional ageing test on pieces of completed cables . 40
19.7.1 General . 40
19.7.2 Sampling . 40
19.7.3 Ageing treatment . 40
19.7.4 Mechanical tests . 40
19.7.5 Requirements . 40
19.8 Loss of mass test on PVC sheaths of type ST . 40
19.8.1 Procedure . 40
19.8.2 Requirements . 41
19.9 Pressure test at high temperature on insulations and non-metallic sheaths . 41
19.9.1 Procedure . 41
19.9.2 Requirements . 41
19.10 Test on PVC insulation and sheaths at low temperatures . 41
19.10.1 Procedure . 41
19.10.2 Requirements . 41
19.11 Test for resistance of PVC insulation and sheaths to cracking (heat shock
test) . 41
19.11.1 Procedure . 41
19.11.2 Requirements . 41
19.12 Ozone resistance test for EPR and HEPR insulations . 41
19.12.1 Procedure . 41
19.12.2 Requirements . 41
19.13 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 41
19.14 Oil immersion test for elastomeric sheaths . 42
19.14.1 Procedure . 42
19.14.2 Requirements . 42
19.15 Water absorption test on insulation . 42
19.15.1 Procedure . 42
19.15.2 Requirements . 42
19.16 Flame spread test on single cables . 42
19.17 Measurement of carbon black content of black PE oversheaths . 42
19.17.1 Procedure . 42
19.17.2 Requirements . 42

– 6 – 60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014
19.18 Shrinkage test for XLPE insulation . 42
19.18.1 Procedure . 42
19.18.2 Requirements . 42
19.19 Thermal stability test for PVC insulation . 42
19.19.1 Procedure . 42
19.19.2 Requirements . 43
19.20 Determination of hardness of HEPR insulation . 43
19.20.1 Procedure . 43
19.20.2 Requirements . 43
19.21 Determination of the elastic modulus of HEPR insulation . 43
19.21.1 Procedure . 43
19.21.2 Requirements . 43
19.22 Shrinkage test for PE oversheaths . 43
19.22.1 Procedure . 43
19.22.2 Requirements . 43
19.23 Strippability test for insulation screen . 43
19.23.1 General . 43
19.23.2 Procedure . 43
19.23.3 Requirements . 44
19.24 Water penetration test . 44
20 Electrical tests after installation . 44
20.1 General . 44
20.2 DC voltage test of the oversheath . 44
20.3 Insulation test. 45
20.3.1 AC testing . 45
20.3.2 DC testing . 45

Annex A (normative) Fictitious calculation method for determination of dimensions of
protective coverings . 52
A.1 General . 52
A.2 Method . 52
A.2.1 Conductors . 52
A.2.2 Cores. 53
A.2.3 Diameter over laid-up cores . 53
A.2.4 Inner coverings . 53
A.2.5 Concentric conductors and metallic screens . 54
A.2.6 Lead sheath . 55
A.2.7 Separation sheath . 55
A.2.8 Lapped bedding . 55
A.2.9 Additional bedding for tape-armoured cables (provided over
the inner covering) . 56
A.2.10 Armour . 56
Annex B (informative) Tabulated continuous current ratings for cables having extruded
insulation and a rated voltage from 3,6/6 kV up to 18/30 kV . 57
B.1 General . 57
B.2 Cable constructions . 57
B.3 Temperatures. 57
B.4 Soil thermal resistivity . 58

60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014 – 7 –
B.5 Methods of installation . 58
B.5.1 General . 58
B.5.2 Single-core cables in air . 58
B.5.3 Single-core cables buried direct . 58
B.5.4 Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 59
B.5.5 Three-core cables . 59
B.6 Screen bonding . 60
B.7 Cable loading . 60
B.8 Rating factors for grouped circuits . 60
B.9 Correction factors . 60
Annex C (normative) Rounding of numbers. 76
C.1 Rounding of numbers for the purpose of the fictitious calculation method . 76
C.2 Rounding of numbers for other purposes . 76
Annex D (normative) Method of measuring resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 77
Annex E (normative) Determination of hardness of HEPR insulations . 80
E.1 Test piece . 80
E.2 Test procedure . 80
E.2.1 General . 80
E.2.2 Surfaces of large radius of curvature . 80
E.2.3 Surfaces of small radius of curvature . 80
E.2.4 Conditioning and test temperature . 80
E.2.5 Number of measurements . 81
Annex F (normative) Water penetration test . 82
F.1 Test piece . 82
F.2 Test . 82
F.3 Requirements . 83
Annex G (informative) Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 84
G.1 Purpose . 84
G.2 Calibration of the temperature of the main test loop . 84
G.2.1 General . 84
G.2.2 Installation of cable and temperature sensors . 84
G.2.3 Calibration method . 86
G.3 Heating for the test . 87
G.3.1 Method 1 – Test using a reference cable . 87
G.3.2 Method 2 – Test using conductor temperature calculations and
measurement of the surface temperature . 87

Bibliography . 89

Figure B.1 – Single-core cables in air . 58
Figure B.2 – Single-core cables buried direct . 59
Figure B.3 – Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 59
Figure B.4 – Three-core cables . 60
Figure D.1 – Preparation of samples for measurement of resistivity of conductor and
insulation screens . 79
Figure E.1 – Test on surfaces of large radius of curvature . 81
Figure E.2 – Test on surfaces of small radius of curvature . 81

– 8 – 60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014
Figure F.1 – Schematic diagram of apparatus for water penetration test . 83
Figure G.1 – Typical test set-up for the reference loop and the main test loop . 85
Figure G.2 – Example of an arrangement of the temperature sensors on the conductor
of the reference loop . 86

Table 1 – Recommended rated voltages U . 16
Table 2 – Insulating compounds . 17
Table 3 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of insulating compound . 17
Table 4 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of sheathing compound . 18
Table 5 – Nominal thickness of PVC/B insulation . 18
Table 6 – Nominal thickness of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation . 19
Table 7 – Nominal thickness of ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and hard ethylene
propylene rubber (HEPR) insulation . 19
Table 8 – Thickness of extruded inner covering . 21
Table 9 – Nominal diameter of round armour wires . 25
Table 10 – Nominal thickness of armour tapes . 25
Table 11 – Routine test voltages . 29
Table 12 – Number of samples for sample tests . 30
Table 13 – Sample test voltages . 32
Table 14 – Impulse voltages . 35
Table 15 – Electrical type test requirements for insulating compounds . 45
Table 16 – Non-electrical type tests (see Tables 17 to 23) . 46
Table 17 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of insulating compounds
(before and after ageing) . 47
Table 18 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC insulating
compound . 48
Table 19 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of various thermosetting
crosslinked insulating compounds . 49
Table 20 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of sheathing compounds
(before and after ageing) . 49
Table 21 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC sheathing
compounds . 50
Table 22 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of PE (thermoplastic
polyethylene) sheathing compounds . 50
Table 23 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of elastomeric sheathing
compound . 51
Table A.1 – Fictitious diameter of conductor . 53
Table A.2 – Increase of diameter for concentric conductors and metallic screens . 54
Table A.3 – Increase of diameter for additional bedding . 56
Table B.1 – Nominal screen cross-sectional areas . 57
Table B.2 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 61
Table B.3 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 62
Table B.4 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 63

60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014 – 9 –
Table B.5 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 64
Table B.6 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured. 65
Table B.7 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 66
Table B.8 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage 3,6/6 kV
to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 67
Table B.9 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage 3,6/6 kV
to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 68
Table B.10 – Correction factors for ambient air temperatures other than 30 °C . 68
Table B.11 – Correction factors for ambient ground temperatures other than 20 °C . 69
Table B.12 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for direct buried
cables . 69
Table B.13 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for cables in ducts . 69
.
Table B.14 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
direct buried single-core cables . 70
.
Table B.15 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W
single-core cables in buried ducts. 70
.
Table B.16 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
direct buried three-core cables . 71
.
Table B.17 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
three-core cables in ducts . 71
Table B.18 – Correction factors for groups of three-core cables in horizontal formation
laid direct in the ground . 72
Table B.19 – Correction factors for groups of three-phase circuits of single-core cables
laid direct in the ground . 72
Table B.20 – Correction factors for groups of three-core cables in single way ducts in
horizontal formation . 73
Table B.21 – Correction factors for groups of three-phase circuits of single-core cables
in single-way ducts . 73
Table B.22 – Reduction factors for groups of more than one multi-core cable in air – To
be applied to the current-carrying capacity for one multi-core cable in free air . 74
Table B.23 – Reduction factors for groups of more than one circuit of single-core cables
(Note 2) – To be applied to the current-carrying capacity for one circuit of single-core

cables in free air . 75

– 10 – 60502-2:2014 RLV © IEC:2014
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
POWER CABLES WITH EXTRUDED INSULATION
AND THEIR ACCESSORIES FOR RATED VOLTAGES
FROM 1 kV (U = 1,2 kV) UP TO 30 kV (U = 36 kV) –
m m
Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV
(U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committ
...

IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.0 2014-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages
from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –
Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to
30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Câbles d'énergie à isolant extrudé et leurs accessoires pour des tensions
assignées de 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –
Partie 2: Câbles de tensions assignées de 6 kV(Um = 7,2 kV) à
30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
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IEC 60502-2 ®
Edition 3.0 2014-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages

from 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –

Part 2: Cables for rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to

30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Câbles d'énergie à isolant extrudé et leurs accessoires pour des tensions

assignées de 1 kV (Um = 1,2 kV) à 30 kV (Um = 36 kV) –

Partie 2: Câbles de tensions assignées de 6 kV(Um = 7,2 kV) à

30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX XC
ICS 29.060.20 ISBN 978-2-8322-1409-1

– 2 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 10
1 Scope . 12
2 Normative references . 12
3 Terms and definitions . 14
3.1 Definitions of dimensional values (thicknesses, cross-sections, etc.) . 14
3.2 Definitions concerning the tests . 14
4 Voltage designations and materials . 15
4.1 Rated voltages . 15
4.2 Insulating compounds. 16
4.3 Sheathing compounds . 17
5 Conductors . 17
6 Insulation . 17
6.1 Material . 17
6.2 Insulation thickness . 17
7 Screening . 19
7.1 General . 19
7.2 Conductor screen . 19
7.3 Insulation screen . 19
8 Assembly of three-core cables, inner coverings and fillers . 19
8.1 General . 19
8.2 Inner coverings and fillers . 19
8.2.1 Construction . 19
8.2.2 Material . 20
8.2.3 Thickness of extruded inner covering . 20
8.2.4 Thickness of lapped inner covering . 20
8.3 Cables having a collective metal layer (see Clause 9) . 20
8.4 Cables having a metal layer over each individual core (see Clause 10) . 20
9 Metal layers for single-core and three-core cables . 21
10 Metal screen . 21
10.1 Construction . 21
10.2 Requirements . 21
10.3 Metal screens not associated with semi-conducting layers . 21
11 Concentric conductor . 21
11.1 Construction . 21
11.2 Requirements . 21
11.3 Application . 22
12 Metal sheath . 22
12.1 Lead sheath . 22
12.2 Other metal sheaths . 22
13 Metal armour . 22
13.1 Types of metal armour . 22
13.2 Materials . 22
13.3 Application of armour . 23
13.3.1 Single-core cables . 23
13.3.2 Three-core cables . 23

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 3 –
13.3.3 Separation sheath . 23
13.3.4 Lapped bedding under armour for lead sheathed cables . 23
13.4 Dimensions of the armour wires and armour tapes. 24
13.5 Correlation between cable diameters and armour dimensions . 24
13.6 Round or flat wire armour . 24
13.7 Double tape armour . 25
14 Oversheath . 25
14.1 General . 25
14.2 Material . 25
14.3 Thickness . 25
15 Test conditions . 26
15.1 Ambient temperature . 26
15.2 Frequency and waveform of power frequency test voltages . 26
15.3 Waveform of impulse test voltages . 26
15.4 Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 26
16 Routine tests . 26
16.1 General . 26
16.2 Electrical resistance of conductors . 26
16.3 Partial discharge test . 27
16.4 Voltage test . 27
16.4.1 General . 27
16.4.2 Test procedure for single-core cables . 27
16.4.3 Test procedure for three-core cables . 27
16.4.4 Test voltage . 27
16.4.5 Requirement . 28
16.5 Electrical test on oversheath of the cable . 28
17 Sample tests . 28
17.1 General . 28
17.2 Frequency of sample tests . 28
17.2.1 Conductor examination and check of dimensions . 28
17.2.2 Electrical and physical tests . 28
17.3 Repetition of tests . 29
17.4 Conductor examination . 29
17.5 Measurement of thickness of insulation and of non-metal sheaths
(including extruded separation sheaths, but excluding inner extruded
coverings) . 29
17.5.1 General . 29
17.5.2 Requirements for the insulation . 29
17.5.3 Requirements for the non-metal sheaths . 30
17.6 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 30
17.6.1 General . 30
17.6.2 Strip method . 30
17.6.3 Ring method . 30
17.7 Measurement of armour wires and tapes . 30
17.7.1 Measurement on wires . 30
17.7.2 Measurement on tapes . 31
17.7.3 Requirements . 31
17.8 Measurement of external diameter . 31
17.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 31

– 4 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
17.9.1 Sampling . 31
17.9.2 Procedure . 31
17.9.3 Test voltages . 31
17.9.4 Requirements . 31
17.10 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 31
17.10.1 Procedure . 31
17.10.2 Requirements . 32
18 Type tests, electrical . 32
18.1 General . 32
18.2 Cables having conductor screens and insulation screens . 32
18.2.1 General . 32
18.2.2 Sequence of tests . 32
18.2.3 Special provisions . 32
18.2.4 Bending test . 33
18.2.5 Partial discharge test . 33
18.2.6 Tan δ measurement for cables of rated voltage 6/10 (12) kV
and above . 33
18.2.7 Heating cycle test . 34
18.2.8 Impulse test followed by a voltage test . 34
18.2.9 Voltage test for 4 h . 34
18.2.10 Resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 35
18.3 Cables of rated voltage 3,6/6 (7,2) kV having unscreened insulation . 35
18.3.1 General . 35
18.3.2 Insulation resistance measurement at ambient temperature . 35
18.3.3 Insulation resistance measurement at maximum conductor
temperature . 36
18.3.4 Voltage test for 4 h . 36
18.3.5 Impulse test . 37
19 Type tests, non-electrical . 37
19.1 General . 37
19.2 Measurement of thickness of insulation . 37
19.2.1 Sampling . 37
19.2.2 Procedure . 37
19.2.3 Requirements . 37
19.3 Measurement of thickness of non-metal sheaths (including extruded
separation sheaths, but excluding inner coverings) . 37
19.3.1 Sampling . 37
19.3.2 Procedure . 37
19.3.3 Requirements . 38
19.4 Measurement of thickness of lead sheath . 38
19.4.1 Sampling . 38
19.4.2 Procedure . 38
19.4.3 Requirements . 38
19.5 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of insulation before and
after ageing . 38
19.5.1 Sampling . 38
19.5.2 Ageing treatments . 38
19.5.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 38
19.5.4 Requirements . 38

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 5 –
19.6 Tests for determining the mechanical properties of non-metal sheaths
before and after ageing . 38
19.6.1 Sampling . 38
19.6.2 Ageing treatments . 38
19.6.3 Conditioning and mechanical tests . 38
19.6.4 Requirements . 39
19.7 Additional ageing test on pieces of completed cables . 39
19.7.1 General . 39
19.7.2 Sampling . 39
19.7.3 Ageing treatment . 39
19.7.4 Mechanical tests . 39
19.7.5 Requirements . 39
19.8 Loss of mass test on PVC sheaths of type ST . 39
19.8.1 Procedure . 39
19.8.2 Requirements . 39
19.9 Pressure test at high temperature on insulations and non-metal sheaths . 39
19.9.1 Procedure . 39
19.9.2 Requirements . 39
19.10 Test on PVC insulation and sheaths at low temperatures . 40
19.10.1 Procedure . 40
19.10.2 Requirements . 40
19.11 Test for resistance of PVC insulation and sheaths to cracking (heat shock
test) . 40
19.11.1 Procedure . 40
19.11.2 Requirements . 40
19.12 Ozone resistance test for EPR and HEPR insulations . 40
19.12.1 Procedure . 40
19.12.2 Requirements . 40
19.13 Hot set test for EPR, HEPR and XLPE insulations and elastomeric
sheaths . 40
19.14 Oil immersion test for elastomeric sheaths . 40
19.14.1 Procedure . 40
19.14.2 Requirements . 40
19.15 Water absorption test on insulation . 40
19.15.1 Procedure . 40
19.15.2 Requirements . 40
19.16 Flame spread test on single cables . 41
19.17 Measurement of carbon black content of black PE oversheaths . 41
19.17.1 Procedure . 41
19.17.2 Requirements . 41
19.18 Shrinkage test for XLPE insulation . 41
19.18.1 Procedure . 41
19.18.2 Requirements . 41
19.19 Thermal stability test for PVC insulation . 41
19.19.1 Procedure . 41
19.19.2 Requirements . 41
19.20 Determination of hardness of HEPR insulation . 41
19.20.1 Procedure . 41
19.20.2 Requirements . 41
19.21 Determination of the elastic modulus of HEPR insulation . 41

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19.21.1 Procedure . 41
19.21.2 Requirements . 42
19.22 Shrinkage test for PE oversheaths . 42
19.22.1 Procedure . 42
19.22.2 Requirements . 42
19.23 Strippability test for insulation screen . 42
19.23.1 General . 42
19.23.2 Procedure . 42
19.23.3 Requirements . 42
19.24 Water penetration test . 43
20 Electrical tests after installation . 43
20.1 General . 43
20.2 DC voltage test of the oversheath . 43
20.3 Insulation test. 43
20.3.1 AC testing . 43
20.3.2 DC testing . 44
Annex A (normative) Fictitious calculation method for determination of dimensions of
protective coverings . 50
A.1 General . 50
A.2 Method . 50
A.2.1 Conductors . 50
A.2.2 Cores. 51
A.2.3 Diameter over laid-up cores . 51
A.2.4 Inner coverings . 51
A.2.5 Concentric conductors and metal screens . 52
A.2.6 Lead sheath . 53
A.2.7 Separation sheath . 53
A.2.8 Lapped bedding . 53
A.2.9 Additional bedding for tape-armoured cables (provided over
the inner covering) . 53
A.2.10 Armour . 54
Annex B (informative) Tabulated continuous current ratings for cables having extruded
insulation and a rated voltage from 3,6/6 kV up to 18/30 kV . 55
B.1 General . 55
B.2 Cable constructions . 55
B.3 Temperatures. 55
B.4 Soil thermal resistivity . 56
B.5 Methods of installation . 56
B.5.1 General . 56
B.5.2 Single-core cables in air . 56
B.5.3 Single-core cables buried direct . 56
B.5.4 Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 57
B.5.5 Three-core cables . 57
B.6 Screen bonding . 58
B.7 Cable loading . 58
B.8 Rating factors for grouped circuits . 58
B.9 Correction factors . 58
Annex C (normative) Rounding of numbers. 74
C.1 Rounding of numbers for the purpose of the fictitious calculation method . 74

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 7 –
C.2 Rounding of numbers for other purposes . 74
Annex D (normative) Method of measuring resistivity of semi-conducting screens . 75
Annex E (normative) Determination of hardness of HEPR insulations . 78
E.1 Test piece . 78
E.2 Test procedure . 78
E.2.1 General . 78
E.2.2 Surfaces of large radius of curvature . 78
E.2.3 Surfaces of small radius of curvature . 78
E.2.4 Conditioning and test temperature . 78
E.2.5 Number of measurements . 79
Annex F (normative) Water penetration test . 80
F.1 Test piece . 80
F.2 Test . 80
F.3 Requirements . 81
Annex G (informative) Determination of the cable conductor temperature . 82
G.1 Purpose . 82
G.2 Calibration of the temperature of the main test loop . 82
G.2.1 General . 82
G.2.2 Installation of cable and temperature sensors . 82
G.2.3 Calibration method . 84
G.3 Heating for the test . 85
G.3.1 Method 1 – Test using a reference cable . 85
G.3.2 Method 2 – Test using conductor temperature calculations and
measurement of the surface temperature . 85
Bibliography . 87

Figure B.1 – Single-core cables in air . 56
Figure B.2 – Single-core cables buried direct . 57
Figure B.3 – Single-core cables in earthenware ducts . 57
Figure B.4 – Three-core cables . 58
Figure D.1 – Preparation of samples for measurement of resistivity of conductor and
insulation screens . 77
Figure E.1 – Test on surfaces of large radius of curvature . 79
Figure E.2 – Test on surfaces of small radius of curvature . 79
Figure F.1 – Schematic diagram of apparatus for water penetration test . 81
Figure G.1 – Typical test set-up for the reference loop and the main test loop . 83
Figure G.2 – Example of an arrangement of the temperature sensors on the conductor
of the reference loop . 84

Table 1 – Recommended rated voltages U . 16
Table 2 – Insulating compounds . 16
Table 3 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of insulating compound . 16
Table 4 – Maximum conductor temperatures for different types of sheathing compound . 17
Table 5 – Nominal thickness of PVC/B insulation . 18
Table 6 – Nominal thickness of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation . 18

– 8 – 60502-2 © IEC:2014
Table 7 – Nominal thickness of ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) and hard ethylene
propylene rubber (HEPR) insulation . 18
Table 8 – Thickness of extruded inner covering . 20
Table 9 – Nominal diameter of round armour wires . 24
Table 10 – Nominal thickness of armour tapes . 24
Table 11 – Routine test voltages . 28
Table 12 – Number of samples for sample tests . 29
Table 13 – Sample test voltages . 31
Table 14 – Impulse voltages . 34
Table 15 – Electrical type test requirements for insulating compounds . 44
Table 16 – Non-electrical type tests (see Tables 17 to 23) . 44
Table 17 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of insulating compounds
(before and after ageing) . 45
Table 18 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC insulating
compound . 46
Table 19 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of various crosslinked
insulating compounds . 47
Table 20 – Test requirements for mechanical characteristics of sheathing compounds

(before and after ageing) . 47
Table 21 – Test requirements for particular characteristics for PVC sheathing
compounds . 48
Table 22 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of PE (thermoplastic
polyethylene) sheathing compounds . 48
Table 23 – Test requirements for particular characteristics of elastomeric sheathing
compound . 49
Table A.1 – Fictitious diameter of conductor . 51
Table A.2 – Increase of diameter for concentric conductors and metal screens . 52
Table A.3 – Increase of diameter for additional bedding . 53
Table B.1 – Nominal screen cross-sectional areas . 55
Table B.2 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 59
Table B.3 – Current ratings for single-core cables with XLPE insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 60
Table B.4 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor . 61
Table B.5 – Current ratings for single-core cables with EPR insulation – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor . 62
Table B.6 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured. 63
Table B.7 – Current rating for three-core XLPE insulated cables – Rated voltage
3,6/6 kV to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 64
Table B.8 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage 3,6/6 kV
to 18/30 kV * – Copper conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 65
Table B.9 – Current rating for three-core EPR insulated cables – Rated voltage 3,6/6 kV

to 18/30 kV * – Aluminium conductor, armoured and unarmoured . 66
Table B.10 – Correction factors for ambient air temperatures other than 30 °C . 66
Table B.11 – Correction factors for ambient ground temperatures other than 20 °C . 67

60502-2 © IEC:2014 – 9 –
Table B.12 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for direct buried
cables . 67
Table B.13 – Correction factors for depths of laying other than 0,8 m for cables in ducts . 67
.
Table B.14 – Correction factors for soil thermal resistivities other than 1,5 K m/W for
direct buried single-core cables . 68
.
Table B.15 – Correction factors for soil therma
...