H05VV-F/SJT
Application and Description
These cables are suited to be used for cooking and heating apparatus under the condition that cable does not come in direct contact with hot parts of the apparatus and no other influences or heat. The cables are suitable for fixed installation in furniture, partition walls, decoration covering and in hollow spaces of prefabricated building parts. They are not suitable for use in open air, in industries (also permitted to tailor workshops and of that kind) and in agriculture plants and for connecting commercial electrical tools.
Standard and Approval
HD21.5 S3, VDE-0281 Part-5 & Part-2, UL Style 62 (SJT), VW-1, CSA 22.2 No 49, FT-1, CE low voltage directive 73/23/EEC & 93/68/EEC., IEC 60227-5, ROHS compliant
Cable Construction
- - Bare copper fine wire conductor
- Stranded to DIN VDE 0295 cl. 5, BS 6360 cl. 5, IEC 60228 cl. 5 and HD 383
- PVC core insulation T12 to VDE-0281 Part 1
- Color coded to VDE-0293-308
- Green-yellow grounding (3 conductors and above)
- PVC outer jacket TM2
Technical Characteristics
- Working voltage VDE: 300/500 volts
- Working Voltage UL/CSA: 300 volts
- Test voltage: 2000 volts
- Flexing bending radius: 7.5 x Ø
- Static bending radius: 4 x Ø
- Flexing temperature: -5º C to +70º C
- Static temperature: -40º C to +70º C
- Flame retardant: IEC 60332.1, VW-1
- Insulation resistance: 20 MΩ x km
Cable Parameter
AWG | NO. OF CORES X NOMINAL CROSS SECTIONAL AREA # X MM² | NOMINAL THICKNESS OF INSULATION MM | NOMINAL THICKNESS OF SHEATH MM | NOMINAL OVERALL DIAMETER MM | NOMINAL COPPER WEIGHT KG/KM | NOMINAWEIGHT KG/KM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
17(32/32) | 0.6 | 0.8 | 7.2 | 19.2 | 56 | |
17(32/32) | 0.6 | 0.8 | 7.6 | 28.8 | 73 | |
17(32/32) | 0.6 | 0.9 | 8.6 | 38.4 | 86 | |
17(32/32) | 0.6 | 0.9 | 9.4 | 48 | 105 | |
16(30/30) | 0.7 | 0.8 | 7.6 | 28 | 82 | |
16(30/30) | 0.7 | 0.9 | 8.3 | 44 | 96 | |
16(30/30) | 0.7 | 1 | 9.3 | 58 | 117 | |
16(30/30) | 0.7 | 1.1 | 10.4 | 72 | 144 | |
14(30/50) | 0.8 | 1 | 9.2 | 48 | 118 | |
14(30/50) | 0.8 | 1.1 | 10 | 72 | 152 | |
14(30/50) | 0.8 | 1.1 | 10.9 | 96 | 192 | |
14(30/50) | 0.8 | 1.2 | 12.2 | 120 | 243 | |
12(56/28) | 0.8 | 1.1 | 10.6 | 76 | 195 | |
12(56/28) | 0.8 | 1.2 | 11.5 | 115 | 235 | |
12(56/28) | 0.8 | 1.2 | 12.4 | 154 | 300 | |
12(56/28) | 0.8 | 1.4 | 14.1 | 192 | 361 |
In the realm of electrical engineering and household appliances, the choice of cabling plays a pivotal role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and longevity. Among the myriad options available, H05VV-F/SJT cables stand out as versatile, flexible cords designed for light-duty applications. These PVC-insulated cables, often referred to as harmonised flexible cords, combine European and North American standards to provide a reliable solution for powering devices in domestic and light commercial settings. Originating from harmonised codes like H05VV-F (European) and SJT (Service Junior Thermoplastic, UL standard), they are engineered for 300/500 volts in VDE contexts and 300 volts under UL/CSA approvals. This dual certification makes them ideal for export-oriented appliances, bridging international markets seamlessly.
The H05VV-F designation breaks down as follows: 'H' for harmonised, '05' indicating 300/500 V rating, 'V' for PVC insulation, another 'V' for PVC sheath, and 'F' for fine-stranded flexible conductor. SJT, on the other hand, specifies a junior service thermoplastic cord rated for 300 V, commonly used in North America for portable tools and appliances. These cables are not just wires; they embody advancements in insulation technology, flame retardancy, and mechanical flexibility, making them indispensable in modern electrical installations.
Overview and Applications
H05VV-F/SJT cables are primarily suited for indoor use in cooking and heating apparatus, provided they do not come into direct contact with hot components or excessive heat sources. This restriction is crucial to prevent degradation of the PVC insulation, which could lead to short circuits or fires. Beyond appliances, these cables excel in fixed installations within furniture, partition walls, decorative coverings, and hollow spaces in prefabricated building elements. Their flexibility allows for easy routing in confined spaces, making them popular in modular homes and office setups.
However, limitations are explicit: they are unsuitable for outdoor environments due to lack of UV resistance and weatherproofing. Industrial applications, including tailor workshops, agricultural plants, and connections to commercial electrical tools, are also prohibited because of potential exposure to heavy mechanical stress, chemicals, or moisture. In South Africa, where diverse climates range from arid interiors to humid coasts, adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance with local electrical codes, such as those outlined in SANS 10142-1, which emphasise safe wiring practices.
The oil-resistant properties of these cables add another layer of utility, protecting against minor spills in kitchen environments. For instance, in vacuum cleaners, blenders, or irons, H05VV-F/SJT provides the necessary flexibility for movement without compromising safety. This versatility underscores their role in enhancing energy efficiency and reducing electrical hazards in everyday life.
In-Depth Analysis
H05VV-F/SJT cables represent a balance between flexibility and durability, outperforming rigid wires in dynamic environments. Compared to H03VV-F, they offer superior voltage ratings (300/500 V vs. 300/300 V), providing a better safety margin for high-power devices. The PVC material, while cost-effective, has drawbacks in fire scenarios, as studies show PVC can exacerbate arc faults due to high temperatures. However, built-in flame retardants mitigate this, making them safer than non-compliant alternatives.
In terms of environmental impact, RoHS compliance reduces toxic emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. Mechanically, the fine-stranded copper minimises resistance, with calculations showing lower voltage drops over length—e.g., for a 1.5 mm² core, resistance is approximately 13.3 Ω/km, ensuring efficient power delivery.
Safety analysis reveals that proper installation prevents overheating; coiled cables can build heat, melting insulation and posing electrocution risks. In South Africa, where load shedding strains electrical systems, these cables' resilience to temperature fluctuations is invaluable.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Household Safety in Ghanaian Homes
A 2024 study in Ho Municipality, Ghana, appraised extension cord safety practices, revealing that misuse of PVC cables like H05VV-F equivalents led to 15% of reported electrical fires from overloading. Participants using certified harmonised cords experienced fewer incidents, highlighting the importance of voltage ratings in preventing insulation breakdown. This mirrors potential risks in South African townships, where similar practices could be mitigated through education.
Case Study 2: Fire Risk in PVC-Insulated Wiring
Research by the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE) in 2024 examined PVC cables' behaviour in arc faults, finding that non-flame-retardant variants propagated fires rapidly. In a simulated kitchen scenario with H05VV-F cables, the VW-1 compliance limited spread, saving structural integrity. This case underscores the value of standards in averting disasters, as seen in a 2025 Australian home wiring hazard report where improper cabling caused recalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between H05VV-F and H03VV-F cables? H05VV-F offers a higher voltage rating (300/500 V) and thicker insulation for better safety in medium-power applications, unlike H03VV-F's 300/300 V for lighter duties.
Can H05VV-F/SJT cables be used outdoors? No, they are designed for indoor use only, lacking weather resistance.
What is the maximum length for these power cords? It depends on load and cross-section, but generally up to 30 metres for 1.5 mm² to avoid excessive voltage drop.
Are they flame-retardant? Yes, compliant with IEC 60332.1 and VW-1, ensuring they self-extinguish.
How do I identify the grounding conductor? It's colour-coded green-yellow in configurations with three or more cores.
What appliances are they best for? Kitchen devices like kettles and toasters, where flexibility is key but direct heat contact is avoided.
H05VV-F/SJT cables exemplify engineering excellence, blending flexibility, safety, and compliance for diverse applications. From their PVC construction to rigorous standards, they address key challenges in electrical safety. As South Africa advances in renewable energy and smart homes, these cables will remain vital. By understanding their parameters and limitations, users can harness their potential while minimising risks, fostering a safer electrical landscape.
