BS 6724 Multicore XLPE SWA LSZH 1.9/3.3KV Cable
BS 6724 SWA Multi Core Copper Conductor 1.9/3.3KV Cable
Category | Details |
|---|---|
Application | Power and auxiliary control cables for use in power networks, underground, outdoor and indoor applications, and in cable ducting. For installation where fire, smoke emission, and toxic fumes create a potential threat to life and equipment. |
Characteristics | |
Voltage Rating Uo/U | 1.9/3.3kV |
Temperature Rating | Maximum Operating: +90ºC Maximum Short-Circuit: +250°C |
Minimum Bending Radius | 12 x overall diameter |
Construction | |
Conductor | Class 2 stranded copper |
Insulation | XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) |
Filler | HFFR (Halogen free flame retardant) |
Armour | SWA (Galvanised Steel Wire Armour) |
Outer Sheath | HFFR (Halogen free flame retardant) |
Core Identification | Brown, Black, Grey |
Sheath Colour | Black |
Standards | BS 6724, IEC/EN 60228, IEC/EN 60502-1 |
Low Smoke Zero Halogen to IEC/EN 61034, IEC/EN 60754 | |
Flame retardant to EN/IEC 60332-1 | |
UV Resistant |
Dimensions
Part No. | No. of Cores | Nominal Cross Sectional Area (mm²) | Nominal Diameter of Conductor (mm) | Nominal Thickness of Insulation (mm) | Minimum Thickness of Outer Sheath (mm) | Nominal Outer Diameter (mm) | Nominal Weight (kg/km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
B9L03010BK | 3 | 10 | 3.85 | 2.0 | 1.24 | 23 | 1545 |
B9L03016BK | 3 | 16 | 4.70 | 2.0 | 1.24 | 27 | 1680 |
B9L03025BK | 3 | 25 | 5.85 | 2.0 | 1.24 | 30 | 2100 |
B9L03035BK | 3 | 35 | 6.90 | 2.0 | 1.32 | 32 | 2530 |
Electrical Characteristics
Nominal Cross Sectional Area (mm²) | Current Carrying Capacity (A) - Clipped Direct | Current Carrying Capacity (A) - In Free Air or on a Perforated Cable Tray (Horizontal/Vertical at 30°C) | Current Carrying Capacity (A) - Direct in Ground or in Ducting (at 20°C) | Maximum Conductor DC Resistance at 20°C (Ω/km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
10 | 73 | 78 | 58 | 1.83 |
16 | 94 | 99 | 75 | 1.15 |
25 | 124 | 131 | 96 | 0.727 |
35 | 154 | 162 | 115 | 0.524 |
What Makes the BS 6724 SWA Cable Stand Out?
The BS 6724 standard, established by the British Standards Institution, governs armoured cables with thermosetting insulation for voltages up to 3.3kV. Specifically, the SWA multi-core copper conductor variant excels in environments requiring low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) properties. Unlike traditional PVC-insulated cables, which can release harmful gases during fires, this cable uses cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation and HFFR outer sheaths to ensure low smoke emission and zero halogen content, as per IEC/EN 60754 and IEC/EN 61034 standards.
Construction-wise, the cable features Class 2 stranded copper conductors for flexibility and conductivity. The multi-core design—typically three cores identified by brown, black, and grey colors—facilitates three-phase AC or DC transmission. An HFFR filler binds the cores, followed by galvanized steel wire armour for crush and rodent resistance, and a black HFFR outer sheath that's UV resistant. This build allows a minimum bending radius of 12 times the overall diameter, easing installation in tight spaces.
Temperature ratings are impressive: it operates up to +90°C continuously and withstands short-circuit peaks of +250°C. Flame retardancy meets EN/IEC 60332-1, ensuring it doesn't propagate fire. These attributes stem from IEC/EN 60502-1 and IEC/EN 60228 compliance, making it a go-to for installations where safety regulations like the 18th Edition of IEE Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) apply. For instance, if connected to equipment rated for 70°C max, users must derate current capacities per Table 4D4A to avoid overheating.
In essence, the BS 6724 SWA multi-core copper conductor 1.9/3.3kV cable isn't just wiring—it's a safeguard. Its design mitigates risks in fire-prone areas, such as tunnels or buildings, while delivering efficient power. As industries push for eco-friendly materials, this cable's halogen-free composition aligns with global sustainability goals, reducing environmental impact without compromising performance.
Usage Scenarios:
The BS 6724 SWA multi-core copper conductor 1.9/3.3kV cable thrives in diverse applications, from power networks to auxiliary control systems. Its armoured design suits underground installations, resisting moisture and mechanical damage in cable ducts or direct burial. Outdoors, UV-resistant sheaths endure harsh weather, while indoors, LSZH properties protect against fire spread in buildings like hospitals or data centers.
In power distribution, it's perfect for connecting transformers to switchgear in substations, handling three-phase loads efficiently. For renewable setups, like solar farms, it links inverters to grids, withstanding temperature fluctuations up to 90°C. Industrial sites use it for machinery feeds, where SWA guards against impacts.
Safety is key: in fire-risk zones, HFFR minimizes toxic emissions, complying with regulations for public venues. Ducting applications benefit from its bend radius, simplifying pulls through conduits.
Globally, it's deployed in urban electrification projects, reducing downtime via reliable insulation. In marine or mining, armour deters rodents and abrasion. Overall, this cable's adaptability ensures seamless integration into smart grids, supporting IoT-enabled monitoring for predictive maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum voltage for BS 6724 SWA cables? It's rated at 1.9/3.3kV Uo/U, suitable for medium-voltage systems.
Can it be used outdoors? Yes, with UV-resistant HFFR sheaths and SWA for protection.
How does it handle fires? HFFR and LSZH properties limit smoke and halogens, per IEC standards.
What's the ampacity for a 25mm² cable? Up to 131A in free air at 30°C, but derate for higher temps.
Is it rodent-proof? SWA provides strong mechanical barrier against pests.
The BS 6724 SWA multi-core copper conductor 1.9/3.3kV cable embodies innovation in cable technology, offering safety, efficiency, and versatility. As South Africa navigates its energy future, such solutions pave the way for reliable, sustainable power. Whether in urban grids or renewable hubs, this cable delivers—proving that strong foundations power progress.
