SIST EN 50290-2-22:2002

Overview

SIST EN 50290-2-22:2002 is a European standard defining the common design rules and construction requirements for PVC sheathing compounds used in communication cables. Published by CLC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization), this standard specifies the material grades, mechanical properties, and test methods necessary for ensuring durable and reliable PVC sheaths in telecommunication cables. It particularly addresses compounds suitable for cables operating up to a maximum rated temperature of 90 °C, including oil-resistant varieties.

This standard must be used alongside EN 50290-2-20, which covers general design and construction rules for communication cables, to ensure comprehensive compliance and optimal cable performance.

Key Topics

• Applicability
  The standard focuses exclusively on PVC sheathing compounds used in communication cables integral to electrical, optical, and coaxial cable assemblies.

• Grades of PVC Compounds

  • Grade TM53: Designed for cables with a maximum rated temperature of 90 °C.
  • Grades TM54 and TM55: Intended for oil-resistant PVC cable sheaths, selected based on environmental conditions.

• Mechanical and Physical Properties
  The compounds must meet strict criteria including:

  • Tensile strength and elongation at break for both initial and aged conditions.
  • Density and hardness measurements.
  • Resistance to heat shock, pressure at elevated temperatures, and low-temperature bending and impact tests.

• Test Methods
  The standard references established test methods from EN 60811 series for general and specific evaluations:

  • Mechanical property assessments such as tensile strength and elongation (EN 60811-1-1).
  • Thermal aging and stability (EN 60811-1-2, EN 60811-3-2).
  • High-temperature pressure and heat shock resistance (EN 60811-3-1).
  • Low temperature performance tests (EN 60811-1-4).
    Additionally, indentation hardness is measured according to ISO 868.

• Performance Requirements
  The PVC sheaths must demonstrate no cracking under heat shock and bending tests, maximum permissible loss of mass after thermal exposure, and limited indentation under pressure, ensuring sheath integrity and cable longevity.

Applications

• Communication Infrastructure
  This standard supports manufacturers and suppliers in producing sheathed cables for telecommunications systems, data networks, and broadband services, where reliability and environmental resistance are critical.

• Oil-Resistant Environments
  For cables deployed in industrial or outdoor conditions with potential oil exposure, the use of oil-resistant Grades TM54 or TM55 ensures sheath durability and extended operational life.

• Temperature-Dependent Installations
  Cables in installations exposed to elevated temperatures up to 90 °C benefit from sheathing compounds complying with Grade TM53 to maintain performance under thermal stress.

• Quality Assurance in Cable Manufacturing
  EN 50290-2-22 provides clear parameters for PVC materials, helping manufacturers standardize production processes and meet regulatory requirements for communication cable sheaths.

Related Standards

• EN 50290-2-20 - Common design rules and construction for communication cables, providing complementary guidelines alongside Part 2-22.
• EN 60811 Series - Specifies test methods for insulating and sheathing materials of electric and optical cables, which are critical for verifying compliance with EN 50290-2-22.
• ISO 868 - Defines the procedure for determining indentation hardness (Shore hardness) of plastics, referenced for PVC sheathing compounds.

By adhering to SIST EN 50290-2-22:2002, cable producers and quality engineers can ensure their PVC sheathed communication cables deliver consistent, high-performance protection tailored to diverse environmental and operational challenges. This contributes directly to enhanced system reliability and longevity in telecommunications infrastructure worldwide.