IEC 60502-4:2023
(Main)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 4: Test requirements on accessories for cables with rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV)
Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages from 1 kV (<em>U</em><sub>m</sub> = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (<em>U</em><sub>m</sub> = 36 kV) - Part 4: Test requirements on accessories for cables with rated voltages from 6 kV (<em>U</em><sub>m</sub> = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (<em>U</em><sub>m</sub> = 36 kV)
IEC 60502-4:2023 specifies the test requirements for type testing of accessories for power cables with rated voltages from 3,6/6 (7,2) kV up to 18/30 (36) kV, complying with IEC 60502‑2 or other relevant cable standards.
Accessories for special applications, such as aerial cables, submarine or ship cables or hazardous situations (explosive environments, fire-resistant cables or seismic conditions), are not included.
It is not necessary to repeat these tests, once successfully completed, unless changes are made in the materials, design or manufacturing process which can affect the performance characteristics.
Test methods are included in IEC 61442.
Câbles d'énergie à isolant extrudé et leurs accessoires pour des tensions assignées de 1 kV (U<sub>m</sub> = 1,2 kV) à 30 kV (U<sub>m</sub> = 36 kV) - Partie 4: Exigences d'essai pour accessoires de câbles de tensions assignées de 6 kV (U<sub>m</sub> = 7,2 kV) à 30 kV (U<sub>m</sub> = 36 kV)
General Information
Relations
Standards Content (Sample)
IEC 60502-4 ®
Edition 4.0 2023-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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 4: Test requirements on accessories for cables with rated voltages from
6 kV (U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
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
either IEC or IEC's member National Committee in the country of the requester. If you have any questions about IEC
copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication, please contact the address below or
your local IEC member National Committee for further information.
IEC Secretariat Tel.: +41 22 919 02 11
3, rue de Varembé info@iec.ch
CH-1211 Geneva 20 www.iec.ch
Switzerland
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.
About IEC publications
The technical content of IEC publications is kept under constant review by the IEC. Please make sure that you have the
latest edition, a corrigendum or an amendment might have been published.
IEC publications search - webstore.iec.ch/advsearchform IEC Products & Services Portal - products.iec.ch
The advanced search enables to find IEC publications by a Discover our powerful search engine and read freely all the
variety of criteria (reference number, text, technical publications previews. With a subscription you will always have
committee, …). It also gives information on projects, replaced access to up to date content tailored to your needs.
and withdrawn publications.
Electropedia - www.electropedia.org
IEC Just Published - webstore.iec.ch/justpublished
The world's leading online dictionary on electrotechnology,
Stay up to date on all new IEC publications. Just Published
containing more than 22 300 terminological entries in English
details all new publications released. Available online and once
and French, with equivalent terms in 19 additional languages.
a month by email.
Also known as the International Electrotechnical Vocabulary
(IEV) online.
IEC Customer Service Centre - webstore.iec.ch/csc
If you wish to give us your feedback on this publication or need
further assistance, please contact the Customer Service
Centre: sales@iec.ch.
IEC 60502-4 ®
Edition 4.0 2023-11
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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 4: Test requirements on accessories for cables with 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 978-2-8322-7701-0
– 2 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Types of accessories . 9
5 Voltage designations and maximum conductor temperatures . 9
5.1 Rated voltages . 9
5.2 Maximum conductor temperatures . 9
6 Components . 9
6.1 Connectors . 9
6.2 Materials . 9
7 Assembly of accessories to be tested . 10
7.1 Identification . 10
7.1.1 Cables . 10
7.1.2 Connectors . 10
7.1.3 Accessories . 10
7.2 Installation and connections . 10
7.2.1 General . 10
7.2.2 Non-range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends . 10
7.2.3 Range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends . 11
7.2.4 Separable connectors . 11
7.2.5 Assembly . 12
7.2.6 Conditioning . 12
7.2.7 Terminations . 12
7.2.8 Terminal boxes . 12
7.2.9 Joints and stop ends . 13
7.2.10 Separable connectors . 13
7.2.11 Set-up . 13
7.2.12 Test arrangements and number of samples . 13
8 Range of approval . 13
8.1 General . 13
8.2 Cable . 14
8.3 Three-core to single-core accessory . 14
8.4 Non-range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends . 15
8.5 Range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends . 15
8.6 Terminations in terminal boxes . 16
8.7 Separable connectors . 16
9 Test sequences . 16
9.1 General . 16
9.2 Dynamic short-circuit performance . 17
10 Test results . 17
10.1 General remarks . 17
10.2 Test reports . 18
10.3 Failures . 18
10.3.1 Accessory failure . 18
10.3.2 Cable failure . 18
10.3.3 Bushing failure. 18
11 Visual examination . 19
Annex A (normative) Identification of test cable . 34
Annex B (normative) Identification of connector . 35
Annex C (normative) Visual examination . 36
C.1 Method . 36
C.2 Examination sheet . 36
Bibliography . 37
Figure 1 – Test arrangements and number of samples for terminations (see Table 9) . 29
Figure 2 – Test arrangements and number of samples for straight, branch or loop joints
(see Table 10) . 30
Figure 3 – Test arrangements and number of samples for stop ends (see Table 11) . 31
Figure 4 – Test arrangements and number of samples for screened deadbreak
separable connectors (see Table 12) . 32
Figure 5 – Test arrangements and number of samples for unscreened deadbreak
separable connectors (see Table 13) . 33
Table 1 – Compliance and qualification scheme for non-range-taking terminations,
joints and stop ends . 11
Table 2 – Compliance and qualification scheme for range-taking terminations, joints,
and stop ends . 11
Table 3 – Test cable conductor cross-sections for separable connectors . 12
Table 4 – Range of approval for cable insulation . 14
Table 5 – Extension of compliance from a three-core accessory to a single-core
accessory of the same design . 15
Table 6 – Extension of compliance and qualification scheme for non-range-taking
terminations, joints and stop ends . 15
Table 7 – Extension of compliance and qualification scheme for range-taking
terminations, joints, and stop ends . 16
Table 8 – Test sequences . 17
Table 9 – Test sequences and requirements for terminations . 20
Table 10 – Test sequences and requirements for straight, branch or loop joints . 21
Table 11 – Test sequences and requirements for stop ends . 22
Table 12 – Test sequences and requirements for screened deadbreak separable
connectors . 23
Table 13 – Test sequences and requirements for unscreened separable connectors
(excluding shrouded terminations) . 24
Table 14 – Additional tests for smaller conductor cross-sectional areas . 25
Table 15 – Additional tests for separable connector compliance extension to largest
cable cross-section . 26
Table 16 – Summary of tests . 27
Table 17 – Summary of test voltages (see Clause 9) . 28
– 4 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
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 4: Test requirements on accessories for cables with
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 Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-governmental organizations liaising
with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
7misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights in
respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, IEC had not received notice of (a) patent(s), which
may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent
the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch shall
not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
IEC 60502-4 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 20: Electric cables. It is an
International Standard.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2010. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) Terminations, joints and stop ends are now characterized as either non-range-taking or
range-taking and are tested accordingly.
b) Introduction of the 240 mm conductor size for testing non-range-taking terminations, joints
and stop ends.
c) Introduction of the 2 500 A separable connector size in Table 3 and the method of testing
in Figure 5.
d) Introduction of dynamic short-circuit classes 0, 1, 2 and 3 in 9.2.
e) Introduction of specific requirements for test reports in Clause 10 and Clause 11 and
specific recording sheets for cables, connectors and examination in Annex A, Annex B and
Annex C.
f) Option to use 2 U for partial discharge testing and removal of DC testing from Table 9,
Table 10, Table 11, Table 12, Table 13 and Table 14.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
20/2110/FDIS 20/2133/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 60502 series, published under the general title Power cables with
extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages from 1 kV (U = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV
m
(U = 36 kV), can be found on the IEC website.
m
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 6 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
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 4: Test requirements on accessories for cables with
rated voltages from 6 kV (U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60502 specifies the test requirements for type testing of accessories for power
cables with rated voltages from 3,6/6 (7,2) kV up to 18/30 (36) kV, complying with IEC 60502‑2
or other relevant cable standards.
Accessories for special applications, such as aerial cables, submarine or ship cables or
hazardous situations (explosive environments, fire-resistant cables or seismic conditions), are
not included.
It is not necessary to repeat these tests, once successfully completed, unless changes are
made in the materials, design or manufacturing process which can affect the performance
characteristics.
Test methods are included in IEC 61442.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60183, Guide to the selection of high-voltage AC cable systems
IEC 60502‑2:2014, 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) – Part 2: Cables for rated voltages
m m
from 6 kV (U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
IEC 61238-1-3, Compression and mechanical connectors for power cables – Part 1-3: Test
methods and requirements for compression and mechanical connectors for power cables for
rated voltages above 1 kV (U = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV) tested on non-insulated
m m
conductors
IEC 61442:2023, Test methods for accessories for power cables with rated voltages from 6 kV
(U = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U = 36 kV)
m m
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
connector
device for connecting a conductor to an equipment terminal or for connecting two or more
conductors to each other
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-17-03 [1], modified – "metallic" has been deleted and "to
connect cable conductors together" has been replaced with "for connecting a conductor to an
equipment terminal or for connecting two or more conductors to each other".]
3.2
termination
device fitted to the end of a cable to ensure electrical connection with other parts of the system
and to maintain the insulation up to the point of connection
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-10-01]
3.3
indoor termination
termination intended for use where it is not exposed to either solar radiation or weathering
3.4
outdoor termination
termination intended for use where it is exposed to either solar radiation or weathering or both
3.5
terminal box
air- or compound-filled box fully enclosing a termination
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-10-03, modified – "air- or compound-filled" has been
added, "enclosing a cable termination and forming a part thereof" has been replaced with "fully
enclosing a termination" and the Note has been deleted.]
3.6
shrouded termination
indoor termination with additional insulation at the bushing connection and used in an air-filled
terminal box
3.7
straight joint
accessory making a connection between two cables to form a continuous circuit
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-11-01]
– 8 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
3.8
branch joint
accessory making a connection of a branch cable to a main cable
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-11-17]
3.9
transition joint
straight or branch joint making a connection between cables having different types of insulation
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-11-04, modified – "accessory" has been replaced with
"straight or branch joint" and "two" has been deleted.]
3.10
stop end
accessory providing a means of insulating the unconnected end of an energized cable
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-10-07, modified – The preferred terms "pot end" and
"insulating cap" have been deleted and "insulating device to terminate" has been replaced with
"accessory providing a means of insulating".]
3.11
separable connector
fully insulated termination permitting the connection and the disconnection of a cable to other
equipment
3.12
screened separable connector
separable connector which has a fully screened external surface
3.13
unscreened separable connector
separable connector which does not have an external screen
3.14
plug-in type separable connector
separable connector in which the electrical contact is made by a sliding device
3.15
bolted type separable connector
separable connector in which the electrical contact is made by a bolted device
3.16
deadbreak separable connector
separable connector designed to be connected and disconnected on de-energized circuits only
3.17
range-taking accessory
accessory designed to take more than one cross-section of cable
3.18
metallic housing
metal enclosure in intimate contact with the outer screen of a separable connector and having
at least the same current carrying capacity to earth as the metallic screen of the cable with
which the separable connector is used
3.19
loop joint
accessory making an end connection between two parallel cables to form a continuous circuit
constructed as a branch joint with the single end replaced with a stop end
4 Types of accessories
The accessories covered by this document are listed below:
– indoor and outdoor terminations of all designs, including terminal boxes;
– straight joints, branch joints and stop ends of all designs, suitable for use underground or
in air;
– screened or unscreened plug-in type or bolted type separable connectors.
NOTE Transition joints connecting cables with extruded insulation to paper-insulated cables are not included in the
scope of this document. The requirements for these accessories are dealt with in the IEC 60055 series [2] .
5 Voltage designations and maximum conductor temperatures
5.1 Rated voltages
The rated voltages U /U (U ) of accessories considered in this document are given in
0 m
IEC 60502‑2:2014, 4.1.
For a given application, the rated voltage of an accessory shall be consistent with that of the
cable, and shall be suitable for the operating condition of the system in which they are used, in
accordance with the recommendations of IEC 60183.
5.2 Maximum conductor temperatures
The accessories shall be suitable for use on cables having the conductor temperatures specified
in IEC 60502‑2:2014, 4.2 for normal operation.
The maximum conductor temperatures of the cables under short-circuit conditions are given in
IEC 60502‑2:2014, Table 3.
6 Components
6.1 Connectors
Connectors used within the accessory shall comply with IEC 61238-1-3, or with another relevant
standard or specification when agreed between either the manufacturer or supplier and the
customer. All connectors shall be identified in accordance with Annex B.
6.2 Materials
It is not a prerequisite for compliance with this document that any component material (resin,
heat-shrink tubing, etc.) should be subject to any form of individual type testing.
If type testing of resins, pressure sensitive adhesive tapes and flexible insulating sleevings for
electrical purposes is required, reference should be made to the relevant standards developed
by IEC technical committee 15, as listed for information in the Bibliography [3], [4], [5].
___________
Numbers in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.
– 10 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
The term "material characterization" is sometimes used in conjunction with both type testing
and fingerprinting of component materials, but it is undefined, and its use should therefore be
avoided.
7 Assembly of accessories to be tested
7.1 Identification
7.1.1 Cables
Cables used for testing shall comply with IEC 60502‑2 and shall be of the same rated voltage
as the accessories to be tested.
Constructional details of the cables shall be identified (refer to Annex A).
7.1.2 Connectors
Connectors used within the accessories shall be identified in accordance with Annex B.
7.1.3 Accessories
Accessories to be tested shall be correctly identified with respect to
– name of manufacturer or supplier;
– type, designation, manufacturing date or code, end of shelf-life date;
– non-range-taking (for only one size of cable)
• specific cross-sections or cable insulation diameter;
• minimum and maximum cable insulation diameter;
– range-taking (for minimum two different sizes of cable)
• minimum and maximum nominal cross-sections, material and shape of cable conductor;
• minimum and maximum cable insulation diameters;
– connector type(s);
– rated voltage (see 5.1);
– minimum value of U for separable connector screen fault current initiation;
– installation instructions (reference and date);
– inside dimensions or type of terminal box if applicable;
– list of kit contents.
7.2 Installation and connections
7.2.1 General
The conductor cross-sectional area shall be as specified in 7.2.2, 7.2.3 and 7.2.4, unless
otherwise specified.
7.2.2 Non-range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends
For joints, terminations and stop ends, which are declared as non-range-taking, one of the
2 2 2 2
following cable cross-sections shall be used: 120 mm or 150 mm or 185 mm or 240 mm .
Compliance for one type of accessory, for the range of cable cross-sections from 95 mm to
300 mm , shall be obtained by successfully completing all the appropriate tests of Table 9,
Table 10 and Table 11 on any one of the cable cross-sections specified above.
Table 1 – Compliance and qualification scheme for non-range-taking
terminations, joints and stop ends
Cable cross- Range of cross-
a
Accessory size tested section Test Sequences Samples sections
selected qualified
one of: 4 (1- core)
1.1, 2.1, 3.1
2 (3- core)
120 mm
Specific for one of the
3 (1- core) 2
95 mm to
2 1.2, 1.3, 2.2, 2.3
conductor sizes described 150 mm
1 (3- core)
300 mm
in 7.2.2
185 mm
3 (1- core)
1.4,1.5
2 1 (3- core)
240 mm
a
Test sequences refer to Table 9, Table 10 and Table 11.
7.2.3 Range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends
For joints, terminations and stop ends, the behaviour of the accessory shall be tested at the
limits of the accessory application range. The accessory application range shall include one of
2 2 2 2
the cable cross-sections 120 mm or 150 mm or 185 mm or 240 mm within its range.
The tests described in sequences 1.1, 2.1, 3.1 of Table 9, Table 10 and Table 11 shall be
carried out with the minimum and maximum cable cross-section of the accessory, declared by
the accessory manufacturer or supplier as the range of application.
Additionally, the tests described in sequences 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 and 1.5 of Table 9 and test
sequences 2.2 and 2.3 of Table 10 shall be carried out on the maximum cable cross-section of
the accessory application range.
Table 2 – Compliance and qualification scheme for range-taking
terminations, joints, and stop ends
Cable cross- Range of cross-
b a
Accessory size tested section Test sequences Samples sections
selected qualified
Minimum of 2 (1- core)
1.1, 2.1, 3.1
range 1 (3- core)
Accessory test size having Minimum of
at least one of the 2 (1- core) range to
1.1, 2.1, 3.1
conductor sizes described 1 (3- core) maximum of
Maximum of
in 7.2.3 within its range range
range
1.2,1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 3 (1- core)
2.2, 2.3 1 (3- core)
a
Test sequences refer to Table 9, Table 10 and Table 11.
b
The accessory test size of the range-taking accessory should have at least one of the sizes described in 7.2.3
within its range, but it is not necessary for the minimum and maximum to be one of these values. For example,
2 2 2 2
the range can be (95 mm to 300 mm ) or (150 mm to 400 mm ).
7.2.4 Separable connectors
For separable connectors: each rating shall be tested as indicated in Table 3, using either
aluminium or copper conductors.
– 12 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 3 – Test cable conductor cross-sections for separable connectors
Rating of Cable conductor cross-section
separable
mm
connector
a c, d
Test sequence 4.1/5.1 Test sequence 4.2/5.2
A
Cu Al Cu Al
250 50 70 50 70
400 95 150 95 120
630 185 300 120 185
800 300 400 150 240
1 250 500 630 240 400
b
2 × 500 2 × 630 500 800
2 500
a
The use of the cross-sections in this Table 3 can lead to overheating of the bushing while achieving the
required conductor temperature. Under these circumstances, it is permissible to use a conductor one size
smaller. If bushing failure occurs, the test will be declared void (see 10.3).
b
MV cables with 2 500 A rating are not readily available. Separable connectors for this rating are therefore
tested with a dual cable connection, where two cables connected in parallel each supply half of the total
current.
c
The equipment bushing short-circuit rating of 25 × I (IEC 60137:2017, 4.3 [6]) is limiting the short-circuit
r
current value. Cross-sections listed are selected to reach the cable short-circuit temperature θ .
sc
d
Test sequence 4.2/5.2 can be done on a cable cross-section from test sequence 4.1/5.1.
7.2.5 Assembly
Accessories shall be assembled in the manner specified by the manufacturer's instructions,
with the grade and quantity of materials supplied, including lubricants, if any. A joint designed
for crossed cores shall be assembled with the cores crossed.
7.2.6 Conditioning
Accessories shall be dry and clean, but neither the cables nor the accessories shall be
subjected to any form of conditioning which can modify the electrical or thermal or mechanical
performance of the test assemblies. Contact with chemicals, for example transformer oil, can
affect the properties of the accessory and shall be avoided.
7.2.7 Terminations
Where terminations are to be tested, the connection between lugs shall have the same electrical
cross-sectional area as that of the cable conductor. Terminations (non-range-taking and range-
taking) shall be tested using the arrangements detailed in Figure 1.
In all cases the number of samples shall be as defined in Figure 1.
7.2.8 Terminal boxes
A termination intended to be used in a metallic terminal box shall be tested in the specified
terminal box, which shall conform to the relevant standards.
For practical reasons, it is permissible to carry out the tests with the terminations enclosed in a
test terminal box fabricated from rigid metallic mesh or from insulating material lined with metal
foil. The box shall allow humidity ingress.
The test terminal box shall be of the same shape and dimensions (e.g. creepage lengths and
clearances) as the specified terminal box and be provided with conductor terminals and
bushings of the type used in service. The box selected for testing should represent the minimum
clearance applicable for the design to operate successfully.
When only one of the termination samples is required to be tested in the terminal box, the
remote end of the test cable may be terminated by any suitable means.
7.2.9 Joints and stop ends
Joints and stop ends shall be tested to withstand a water height of 1 m (equivalent to 10 kPa
relative).
Where a water height of 1 m is deemed insufficient, upon agreement with the manufacturer or
supplier, accessories shall be tested using an increased water height of 20 m (equivalent to
200 kPa relative).
The water height used shall be recorded in the test report.
Testing at one water height demonstrates compliance for that water height only.
Testing at both 1 m and 20 m water heights demonstrates compliance at those water heights
and at all intermediate water heights.
NOTE The equivalent water height can be achieved using a pressurized water tank.
Where a branch joint or loop joint is being tested, only the main cable shall carry heating current.
7.2.10 Separable connectors
Separable connectors shall be connected to their mating bushing, and the connection between
bushings shall have the same electrical cross-sectional area as bushing conductor rod, unless
otherwise specified.
For unscreened separable connectors, the minimum phase-to-phase and phase-to-earth
clearances, recommended by the manufacturer, shall be tested.
The current value shall be sufficient to achieve the specified temperature of the cable conductor
(see IEC 61442:2023, 10.1).
7.2.11 Set-up
The main details regarding test mounting, especially supporting devices, shall be recorded.
7.2.12 Test arrangements and number of samples
Test arrangements and number of samples are detailed in Figure 1 to Figure 5.
8 Range of approval
8.1 General
Compliance shall extend the use of an accessory on cables of the same U as the test cable
but with equal or greater nominal insulation thickness. The converse shall not apply.
– 14 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
Compliance of an accessory tested for a specified U shall extend to operation of the accessory
at a lower U provided that the radial electrical stress at the insulation screen of the cable of a
lower U is not greater than that of the test cable. Compliance of separable connectors used at
a lower U is subject to an additional requirement for screen fault initiation testing (see 8.7).
8.2 Cable
8.2.1 Approval is independent of the cable conductor material: tests may therefore be carried
out using cables with either aluminium or copper conductors.
8.2.2 The tests performed on accessories installed on cables having shaped conductors shall
be deemed to cover the same type of accessory when used on cables having circular
conductors; however, the converse does not apply.
In order to achieve extension of approval from round to sector-shaped conductors, additional
tests shall be performed according to Table 9, Table 10, Table 11, Table 12 and Table 13, test
sequences 1.1, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1 and 5.1, respectively.
8.2.3 Approval is dependent on the cable insulation tested as detailed in Table 4.
Table 4 – Range of approval for cable insulation
Insulation of test cable Range of approval
XLPE XLPE, EPR, HEPR and PVC
EPR or HEPR EPR, HEPR and PVC
PVC PVC
Accessories tested on cables with one type of non-metallic insulation screen demonstrate
compliance when used with another type of non-metallic insulation screen after successful
completion of the tests in Table 9, Table 10, Table 11, Table 12 and Table 13, test sequences
1.1, 2.1, 3.1, 4.1 and 5.1, respectively.
8.2.4 Approval obtained by testing on a non-longitudinally water-blocked type of cable shall
be extended to a cable with means of longitudinal water-blocking in the metallic screen area
but otherwise of the same design. The converse shall not apply.
8.3 Three-core to single-core accessory
Compliance obtained for a three-core accessory can be extended to a single-core accessory of
the same design by performing the tests specified in Table 5.
The converse shall not apply.
NOTE Triplex cables are handled as single-core cables
Table 5 – Extension of compliance from a three-core accessory
to a single-core accessory of the same design
Cable accessory type Test sequence
Indoor terminations Table 9, tests 13 and 15
Outdoor terminations Table 9, tests 5, 11, 12, 14, 15
Joints Table 10, tests 5, 6, 12, 13, 14
Stop ends Table 11, tests 5, 8, 9, 10,11
Screened separable connectors Table 12, tests 8, 12, 14, 15
Unscreened separable connectors Table 13, tests 8, 12, 13, 14, 15
8.4 Non-range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends
Compliance for one type of accessory is defined in 7.2.2.
Extension of compliance for the same design of accessory to smaller or larger cable cross-
sections shall be obtained by the satisfactory completion of the relevant tests, according to
Table 6.
NOTE "Same design" includes: same architecture, same manufacturing process, same conception, same materials,
same sealings, compatible electrical stress (maximum electrical stress less or equal to the maximum electric stress
at the tested cable accessory interface), compatible interfaces (interfaces of the same or longer lengths between
conductive parts). Other differences observed between accessories are subject to an agreement between the
manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser.
Table 6 – Extension of compliance and qualification scheme for non-range-taking
terminations, joints and stop ends
Range of cross-sections
Accessory size tested Test sequences Samples
qualified
2 (1- core) Extension down to and
Table 14
Size < 95 mm
1 (3- core) including the size tested
2 (1- core) Extension up to and
2 a
Size > 300 mm 1.1, 2.1, 3.1
1 (3- core) including the size tested
a
Test sequences refer to Table 9, Table 10 and Table 11.
8.5 Range-taking terminations, joints and stop ends
The tests carried out on the limits of the accessory application range, according to 7.2.3, give
compliance for cross-sections tested and intermediate cross-sections.
Extension of compliance for the same design of accessory to smaller or larger cable cross-
sections shall be obtained by the satisfactory completion of the relevant tests, according to
Table 7.
NOTE Same design includes: same architecture, same manufacturing process, same conception, same materials,
same sealings, compatible electrical stress (maximum electrical stress less or equal to the maximum electric stress
at the tested cable accessory interface), compatible interfaces (interfaces of the same or longer lengths between
conductive parts). Other differences observed between accessories are subject to an agreement between the
manufacturer or supplier and the purchaser.
– 16 – IEC 60502-4:2023 © IEC 2023
Table 7 – Extension of compliance and qualification scheme for range-taking
terminations, joints, and stop ends
Range of cross-
Cable cross-
a
Accessory size tested Test sequences Samples sections
section selected
qualified
2 (1- core) Extension to
Smallest size Smallest cable Table 14
1 (3- core) smallest cable
2 (1- core) Extension to
Largest size Largest cable 1.1, 2.1, 3.1
1 (3- core) largest cable
Intermediate size No test required as included within the range of smallest to largest
a
Test sequences refer to Table 9, Table 10 and Table 11.
8.6 Terminations in terminal boxes
Compliance for a particular design of termination in a specified terminal box shall be obtained
by the satisfactory completion of the test sequence in Table 9. If compliance has already been
obtained for a termination design separate from the terminal box, it is necessary to carry out
the test sequence with only one of the terminations in a terminal box.
Satisfactory completion of the appropriate tests of Table 9 for a termination for one design of
terminal box may allow the compliance to be extended to that termination in another terminal
box design by comparison of the detail drawings of the boxes. If there are differences in the
design or dimensions or both, the impulse voltage test at ambient temperature shall be
repeated, by agreement between the manufacturer or supplier and the customer.
8.7 Separable connectors
Compliance for one type of separable connector, for the cross-section tested, shall b
...








Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...