MV cables (IEC) - Electric power & transmission & distribution

26 May.,2025

 

MV cables (IEC) - Electric power & transmission & distribution

Dear all

I need your help for 2 issues :

1/ To order MV cables, please advise how to specify short circuit withstand capacity on cable metallic screen.
What I have at this stage, is the preliminary calculation of max short circuit value (for example 40kA @ 10kV level) which I use in equipement and cable (core) selection.


2/ For interconnection between 2 substations, is it mandatory to provide a separate MV cable for equipotential earthing?
for example, for a feeder with 2c x 1x300 mm2 per phase (Copper core, XLPE insul, 12/20kV). Do I have to foeresee a separate PE cable (of 1x300 mm2 ?) or are the cables' metallic screens sufficient for this purpose?


Thank you. Howdy Mastergate,

1) There is no short-circuit rating for the shield on a MV cable. Should the shield ever see 40kA, it will be toast (ie vaporize). Some cable manufacturers will let you spec the overlap and thickness of the tape, but the tape is never expected to carry the any fault current. What are the particulars of the cable that you are considering? (ie single conductor, three conductor, concentric neutral, metal-clad, non-armoured, type TECK or type CLX, etc)

2)If I understand your situation; these two substations at the same industrial facility and are the connected via the MV cable? It would be very common, within an industrial facility, to tie the two grid systems together with (say) two runs of 4/0awg copper ground conductor. The required size is likely defined in your local codes [ie NEC (NFPA-70), CEC (CSA), etc ]
If the feeders are overhead in tray or cable-bus, then the ground conductors should be insulated. If the feeders are underground, either direct-buried or in a duct-bank, then the ground conductors should be bare.
The shields of the cable are not adequate for grounding of anything.
Since this is a MV installation, someone will be undertaking a touch/step/station rise calculation, correct?

Regards,
GG


"Wish I didn't know now what I didn't know then." -- Bob Seger The cable screen is rated for whatever current/time it says in the cable specification. There seems to have been a presumption made that the screen is tape. You can specify copper wire screens with whatever fault rating you require. However if your earth fault level is really anywhere near 40kA, for safety's sake you should be looking to reduce it.

Regards
Marmite Hi Marmite,
The OP did not state that he has 40kA of ground-fault current, but rather 40kA of short-circuit current. I trust that the OP will be installing a NGR to limit the ground-fault current; one can only hope. I agree with you that 40kA is one heck of a lot of fault-current at 10kV. (ie 40kA implies a xfmr size in the 40MVA range.)

In industrial applications, at least in NA, I have never seen a power cable that did not use copper tape as the shield. Although concentric neutral cable is used extensively by Utilities, I have never seen it used in an industrial application. Perhaps it is more common in other parts of the world.

Regards,
GG

"Wish I didn't know now what I didn't know then." -- Bob Seger thank you all.

as we are located in morocco we are using french standards (NF) and recently more and more IEC.
The type of cables we commonly use are single core, non armoured, with metallic screen/shield (wire or tape) conforming to french standard NFC 33-226 (or IEC -2).
Cable manufucturers do specify a s.c withstand capacity for screen/shield (usually some kAmps). also I've seen some EDF (french grid company) documents specifying some minimum values for the same. Regarding the 40kA, this high s.c level is due to 'powerful' network (composed of many power plants turbogenerators) connected to this substation throught a 50MVA trafo, and to an important number of motor loads.

2/for the feeders between the two substations, these are laid overhead in cable trays.
the earthing network design and calculation for each substation will be performed separately and according to IEC.
the ground conductor I'm asking about, was required by operator to ensure equipotential bonding.
As this ground cable will be insulated type and wiil run with 10kv cables, what must be its insulation level? Hi Scotty,
I have never seen HV cable used as a grounding conductor before. For above-ground ground conductors, for industrial sites here in NA, we tend to use (say) 600V green-insulated ground conductor; this is independent of the GPR. Just curious to understand what is common in other parts of the world...
Regards,
GG

"Wish I didn't know now what I didn't know then." -- Bob Seger

Power Cable Types: A Guide To Choosing The Right Cable

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What are the types of power cables?

What Cable type is used for underground power distribution?

What is a power cable made of?

Where to buy power cable? 

How do I identify a power cable?

The Bottom Line

Let's work on your cable project!

A power cable is a type of electrical cable used to transmit electricity. Power cable types composed of a conductor ( typically made of copper or aluminum) and an insulation layer. Typically, the electrical power cable is installed in buildings and other structures to supply electricity.

Nonelectrical power cable types are also used for other purposes, such as connecting portable devices and aerial bundled cables (ABC) for overhead power lines. There are different power cables types based on their intended application, conductor material, insulation material, and cross-sectional area. This blog post will get you to know the common power cables types and where to discover the right one for your requests.

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What Are The Types Of Power Cables?

Considering the various types of power cables is essential for several reasons. It can help you better understand each type's capabilities and limits. Additionally, knowing the different power cables types can also aid in troubleshooting should an issue ever arise. Electrical power cable types are classified as:

  • Low Voltage Cable:

These are compatible with 0.6/1KV electricity systems. PVC-insulated cable is the most popular low-voltage wiring type. Copper or aluminum is used as the conductor. Low voltage cables are often used in homes and businesses, including powering lights, outlets, and appliances. 

Typically, low-voltage cables are made from copper or aluminum. The former is a more expensive option but is also more durable and has better electrical conductivity. On the other pointer, aluminum is less pricey but not as durable and has poorer electrical conductivity.

  • Medium Voltage Cable:

As the name implies, medium voltage cables are designed for use with systems with a voltage of between 600 and 69,000 volts. The most common medium voltage cable type is XLPE, which stands for Cross-Linked Polyethylene. Medium voltage cables are typically used in industrial applications, such as powering large motors or connecting different buildings.

Medium voltage standard power cable types are usually high-quality copper or aluminum. These metals are used because of their excellent electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion. The electrical current flowing through the medium voltage cable produces a lot of heat, so the copper or aluminum must be able to withstand these high temperatures.

  • High Voltage Cable:

High voltage cables are designed for use with systems with 69,000 volts or more. The most common high voltage cable type is EPR, which stands for Ethylene Propylene Rubber. High voltage cables are used in utility applications, such as connecting power plants to substations. These power cables have extensive use in industries.

Industrial power cable types are usually high voltage cables. The main reason for this is that the higher the voltage, the less electrical current is required to power the same amount of equipment. This means less heat is generated, making it easier to manage and control. Another reason why high voltage cables are used in industrial applications because they are less likely to experience power outages.

  • Flexible Cable:

Flexible power cable types are designed to be used in applications where the cable needs to be bent or twisted. The most common flexible cable type is PVC, which stands for Polyvinyl Chloride. Flexible cables are often used in electronic equipment, such as laptops and cell phones.

The flexibility needs to be considered when selecting the type of metal to use. If the application requires a lot of flexibility, then a metal with a lower modulus of elasticity, such as copper, is typically used. If the application does not require as much flexibility, a metal with a higher modulus of elasticity, such as steel, can be used.

What Cable Type Is Used For Underground Power Distribution?

In most cases, these cables are run underground in conduit to protect the cable and prevent electrical interference. The power cable types are divided into categories to define the maximum voltage and current they can carry. The two most common power cable types are:

  • Armoured Cable:

An armoured cable is a type of power cable that is enclosed in a metal sheath. The metal sheath protects the cable from physical damage and electrical interference. Armoured cables are typically used in industrial applications, such as powering large motors or connecting different buildings.

The most common type of armoured cable for underground power line cable is the direct burial armored cable. It is designed to be buried directly in the ground without the need for any additional protection. The armored layer provides protection against physical damage and the insulation protects against electrical shorts.

  • Underground Power Cable:

Underground power cables are designed for buried conduit or direct burial applications. The most common underground power cable type is URD, which stands for Underground Residential Distribution. URD cables are used to connect homes and businesses to the electrical grid.

The composition of underground power cable types includes a conductor, insulation, and a protective jacket. The conductor is typically made from copper or aluminum, and the insulation is generally made from polyethylene or cross-linked polyethylene. The protective jacket protects the cable from physical damage, chemical corrosion, and electrical interference. These make a durable and reliable power underground power cable that can last for many years.

What Is A Power Cable Made Of?

Power cables or electricity cables usually have three main components. Manufacturing methods and materials used in each of these components vary according to the type of power cable. The three main features are:

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Conductor:

The conductor is the part of the power cable that carries the electrical current. The conductor is usually a metal part made from different materials. A power cable used to connect two buildings will have a different conductor than a power cable used to connect a computer to a printer.

The conductor is the most critical part of the power cable, and its primary purpose is to carry the electrical current from one point to another. The conductor is often called the "live" part of the power cable because it maintains the electrical current.

Insulation:

The insulation is the part of the power cable that surrounds the conductor and prevents electrical current from flowing through it. The insulation is usually made from a non-conductive material, such as plastic or rubber. The type of insulation used in a power cable depends on the application.

Factors that consider while choosing an insulation material for power cable types include

  • Temperature,
  • Chemical resistance,
  • Fire resistance.

The insulation is often called the "dielectric" part of the power cable because it prevents the electrical current from flowing through it.

Jacket:

The jacket is the outermost part of power cable types, and it protects the insulation and conductor from physical damage. The jacket is usually made from a durable material, such as PVC or polyethylene. The type of jacket used in a power cable depends on the application.

Choosing a jacket material resistant to physical damage, chemical corrosion, and electrical interference is essential. The jacket is frequently denoted as the "armor" or "sheath."

Where To Buy Power Cable? 

Finding a trustworthy and reliable manufacturer and the supplier is critical for the success of your project; turn to Ruitian Cable. We are a leading global provider of power cable types and cable systems for power and data transmission. We bid on a wide array of products, providing technical support and custom solutions to meet your specific needs.

After partnering with us, you can be poised to work with a team of experts committed to providing the best possible products and services. An extensive range of power cables types are manufactured and available for purchase at ZW Cable, including IEC cable types, electric wire types, an overhead power cable line, and many more. Rely on us for all your cable needs!

How Do I Identify A Power Cable?

Identification of power cable types can be difficult without the proper knowledge and tools. There are several ways to identify a power cable, and the most common method is by looking at the markings on the cable.

The markings on a power cable will usually include the following information:

  • Manufacturer's name or logo
  • Voltage rating
  • Amperage rating
  • Conductor size
  • Insulation type
  • Jacket type

Another way to identify a power cable is by its color. Power cable types are typically color-coded to indicate their voltage rating. For example, a power cable rated for 120 volts will usually be colored white. A power cable rated for 240 volts will usually be colored orange. If you are uncertain about the identity of a power cable, it is always best to seek the help of a professional.

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