600/1000V PVC Insulated, Non-sheathed Flexible Cables (Single Core)

Unraveling the Power of 600/1000V PVC-Insulated Non-Sheathed Flexible Cables

         600/1000V PVC Insulated, Non-sheathed Flexible Cables (Single Core)

FGD100 1V-K (CU/PVC 600/1000V class 5)

BS Code: TYPE BK/TYPE CK(CU/PVC)

Application

BS 6231 600/1000V PVC insulated,non-sheathed flexible cables are intended for use in the wiring of switch, control, metering, relay and instrument panels of power switchgear, and for such purposes as internal connections in rectifier equipment and its motor starters and controllers.

Standards

Basic design to to BS 6231: 2006

Fire Performance

Flame Retardance (Single Vertical Wire Test)

BS EN 60332-1-2

Voltage Rating

600/1000V

Cable Construction

Conductor

Annealed copper conductor, class 5 according to BS EN 60228.

Insulation

PVC Type TI 1 according to BS EN 50363-3 for cable type BK, and type TI 3 according to BS EN 50363-3 for cable type CK.

Colour Code

Black, Blue, Brown, Red, White, Grey, Violet, Pink, Green and Yellow. Other colours can be offered upon request.

Physical and Thermal Properties

Maximum temperature range during operation (PVC)

70°C (TYPE BK); 90°C (TYPE CK)

Maximum short circuit temperature (5 Seconds)

160°C

Minimum bending radius

6 x overall diameter

Construction Parameters

 

Conductor

FGD100 1V-F

 

No. of Cores xCross Section

Class of Conductor

Nominal Insulation Thickness

Maximum Overall Diameter

Approx.Weight

 

No.xmm2

 

mm

mm

kg/km

 

1x0.50

5

0.8

3

12

 

1x0.75

5

0.8

3.1

15

 

1x1.0

5

0.8

3.3

18

 

1x1.5

5

0.8

3.6

23

 

1x2.5

5

0.8

4.1

34

 

1x4.0

5

0.8

4.8

48

 

1x6.0

5

0.8

5.3

67

 

1x10

5

1

7.2

119

 

1x16

5

1

9

187

 

1x25

5

1.2

11.5

291

 

1x35

5

1.2

12.5

406

1x50

5

1.4

15.4

580

1x70

5

1.4

17.5

780

 

1x95

5

1.6

19.2

1055

 

1x120

5

1.6

21.2

1175

 

1x150

5

1.8

23.9

1425

 

1x185

5

2

25.9

1735

 

1x240

5

2.2

28.9

2310

ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES

Conductor Operating Temperature

70°C

Ambient Temperature

30°C

Introduction to 600/1000V PVC-Insulated Non-Sheathed Flexible Cables

In the intricate world of electrical engineering, 600/1000V PVC-insulated, non-sheathed flexible cables (single core) stand out as a cornerstone for reliable power distribution in various applications. Known for their flexibility, durability, and adherence to stringent standards like BS 6231:2006, these cables, such as the FGD100 1V-K (Type BK and Type CK), are vital in powering switchgear, control panels, and industrial equipment. This article delves into their technical specifications, standards, usage scenarios, and real-world applications, with a focus on South Africa’s evolving energy sector. We’ll also address frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of these essential components.

What Are 600/1000V PVC-Insulated Non-Sheathed Flexible Cables?

These cables are single-core, flexible conductors designed for high-voltage applications, rated at 600/1000V. They feature annealed copper conductors (Class 5 as per BS EN 60228) for superior flexibility and PVC insulation (Type TI 1 for BK, Type TI 3 for CK) for robust electrical protection. Unlike sheathed cables, they lack an outer protective layer, making them ideal for internal wiring where flexibility and space are critical. Available in various colors—black, blue, brown, red, white, grey, violet, pink, green, and yellow—they cater to diverse installation needs.

Key Features

  • Conductor: Annealed copper, Class 5, ensuring high flexibility.

  • Insulation: PVC Type TI 1 (70°C for Type BK) or Type TI 3 (90°C for Type CK).

  • Voltage Rating: 600/1000V, suitable for medium-voltage applications.

  • Fire Performance: Flame-retardant as per BS EN 60332-1-2 (Single Vertical Wire Test).

  • Minimum Bending Radius: 6 times the overall diameter, allowing tight configurations.

Standards Compliance

Adherence to international standards is critical for safety and performance. The 600/1000V PVC-insulated cables comply with:

  • BS 6231:2006: Specifies construction and performance requirements for flexible cables.

  • BS EN 60228: Defines Class 5 conductor flexibility.

  • BS EN 50363-3: Outlines PVC insulation properties (Type TI 1 and TI 3).

  • BS EN 60332-1-2: Ensures flame-retardant properties through single vertical wire testing.

Applications of 600/1000V PVC-Insulated Cables

These cables are engineered for internal wiring in:

  • Switchgear and Control Panels: Used in power switchgear for wiring switch, control, metering, relay, and instrument panels.

  • Rectifier Equipment: Facilitates internal connections in rectifiers, motor starters, and controllers.

  • Industrial Settings: Ideal for machinery requiring flexible, high-voltage connections in confined spaces.

Advantages of 600/1000V PVC-Insulated Cables

  • Flexibility: Class 5 conductors allow tight bending radii, ideal for compact installations.

  • Durability: PVC insulation resists abrasion and environmental stress.

  • Safety: Flame-retardant properties reduce fire risks.

  • Versatility: Wide range of cross-sections (0.5 mm² to 240 mm²) suits various applications

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the difference between Type BK and Type CK cables?
Type BK uses PVC Type TI 1 insulation (70°C max), while Type CK uses Type TI 3 (90°C max), making CK suitable for higher-temperature environments.

Q2: Can these cables be used outdoors?
No, their non-sheathed design makes them unsuitable for external use, as they lack protection against moisture and mechanical damage.

Q3: How do I choose the right cross-sectional area?
Select based on current-carrying capacity and voltage drop requirements, referencing BS 7671:2008 tables (e.g., 2.5 mm² for 20-27A, depending on installation method).

Q4: Are these cables compliant with South African regulations?
Yes, when certified to BS 6231:2006, they meet South Africa’s safety standards, but always verify with suppliers to avoid counterfeits.

Q5: What is the significance of the 600/1000V rating?
It indicates the cable can handle 600V to ground and 1000V between phases, suitable for medium-voltage applications.

600/1000V PVC-insulated, non-sheathed flexible cables are indispensable in modern electrical systems, offering flexibility, safety, and compliance with rigorous standards like BS 6231:2006. In South Africa, their role in renewable energy and urban infrastructure projects underscores their importance in addressing the country’s energy challenges.