इंटरनेट मानक

Disclosure to Promote the Right To Information

Whereas the Parliament of India has set out to provide a practical regime of right to
information for citizens to secure access to information under the control of public authorities,
in order to promote transparency and accountability in the working of every public authority,
and whereas the attached publication of the Bureau of Indian Standards is of particular interest
to the public, particularly disadvantaged communities and those engaged in the pursuit of
education and knowledge, the attached public safety standard is made available to promote the
timely dissemination of this information in an accurate manner to the public.

“जान1 का अ+धकार, जी1 का अ+धकार” “प0रा1 को छोड न' 5 तरफ”

Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan Jawaharlal Nehru
“The Right to Information, The Right to Live” “Step Out From the Old to the New”

IS 1554-2 (1988): PVC Insulated (Heavy Duty) Electric

Cables, Part 2: for Working Voltages from 3'3 kV up to and
Including 11 kV [ETD 9: Power Cables]

“!ान $ एक न' भारत का +नम-ण”

Satyanarayan Gangaram Pitroda
“Invent a New India Using Knowledge”

“!ान एक ऐसा खजाना > जो कभी च0राया नहB जा सकता ह”

है”
ह
Bhartṛhari—Nītiśatakam
“Knowledge is such a treasure which cannot be stolen”
 18 : tll4 ( hrt Z ) • , . .
t R••l'lIrmecl1tM)
Indian Standard
SPECIFICATION FOR PVC INSULATED
( HEAVY DUTY) ELECTRIC CABLES
PARI' Z FOR WORKI.O VOLTAGES FROM 3·3 kV UP TO AND INCLUDING 11 kV

( Second Revision)
Second Reprint DECEMBER 1999

UDC 621"315-211: 621"315-616-96

(j) Copyrl"" 1989

BUR E A U OF I NO I A N S TAN 0 A R 0 S
MANAlC. BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARO
NEW DElJfIl10002
Gr .. April 1989
Category Test ForRequirements For Test Method
Ref to Ref Part
No. of IS 10810
01 No AdditionaI tests
Cl a) Oxygen index test 19.9 58 (Underpreparation)
b) Flame retardance test on ]9.10 61
single cable
c) Flame retarda nee test on 19.11 62
bunched cables
d) Temperature index 19.14 Under consideration
C2 a) Oxygen index test 19.Q 58 ( Under preparation)
b) FJa me retardanee test on 19.10 61
single cable
c) Flame retardanee tcst on 19.11 62
bunched cables

d) Test for specific optical 19.12 Under consideration

densny of smoke
e) Test for halogenacid ga5 19.13 sq
evolution
f) Smoke densidty 19.15 63
g) Temperature index 19.14 Under consideration
NOTFS:

1 For category C1. tests (a) and (d) are to be performed on samples taken from outer ~htJlth, as
applicable, and prepared 10 the mannergiven in the relevant lest method

.2 For category C1. tests (a), (e), (f) and (g) arc to be performed on samples taken from outer
sheath, as applicable. and prepared in the mannergiven in the relevant lest method.'

(Page 7, clause 18.2.1 ) - Add clause 18.1.%:

'18.%.% The following shall constitute additional acceptance rests for cables
with improved fire performance as per the categories given in Appendix A:

2
 Category Test
Cl 8) Oxygen index test
b) Flame rctardance test on single cable
C2 a) Oxygen index test
b) Flame rctardance test on single cable
c) Test for specific optical density of smoke
d) Test for halogen acid gas evolution
c) Smoke density test
(Page 7, clause 19.8 ) - Add the following clauses:
,19.9 Oxygen Index Test
The test on samples of inner/outersheath ~h811 be done at 27 % 20 C. The oxygen
index shall not be less than 29.
19.10 Flame Retardance Test on Single Cables
After the test, there should be no visible damages on the test specimen within
300 nun from jt~ upper end. Marks from mixing devices, soot or changing oftbe
colour are not considered damages.
19.11 Flame Retardanee Test on Bunched Cahles
After burning bas ceased. the cables should he wiped clean and tbe charred or
affected portion should not have reached a height exceeding 2.5 In above tilt
bottom edge of t he burner, measu red at the front and rear of tbe cable assembly.
NOll' - Requirements for this test art. split in 3 categories that is. A B. and C as
described in IS 10810 ( Part (,2 ). For the purpose of this standard category Band C te~t
methods for method B. method C shall be used for both the categories Cl and C2.

19.1% Test for Specinc Opticaillensity of Smoke

Underconsideration.
19.13 Test ror Halogen .t\cid Gas Evoluti(ln
The level of He) evolved shall not exceed 20 percent by weight.
19.14 Test for Temperature Index
The measured value of temperature index shall be 21 at a temperature of2S0oC.
19.IS Smoke Density Test
Underconsideration.
( Page 7, clause %0.1 ) - Add new clause:
'%0.2.1 The following special cables shall be identified by indenting,
embossing or printing the appropriate legend on tbe outer sheath throughout the
cable length, in additionto tbe existing marking requirements:
Type of Cable Legend
Improved Fire performance for category Cl FR
Improved fire performance for category C2 FR-LSH
( Appendix A, Page 8 ) - Insert the foIlowing new 'Appendix A' and
renumber the existing' Appendix A' as 'Appendix B'.
APPENDIX A
(Clauses 0.7, 1.4 and 18.1.3)
CLASSIFICATION OF CABLES FOR IMPROVED FIRE
PERFORMANCE
Category Environment Type Cable Definition
Description
01 Cables in open areas Flame retardent. Single cableself-
extinguishing, does not propagate
flame
Cl Cables in constrained FR Flame retlrdent. Does notpropagate
areas fire even when installedin groups
in vertical ducts
C2 Cables in constrained FR-LSH Flame retardent cables witb reduced
areas with limited human halogen evolution
activity and/orpresence
of sopbisticated systems

(ETD09)
Printed at Dee Kay Printers, New Delhi
 AMENDMENT NO. 1 MAY 1994
TO
IS 1554 (Part 2) : 1988 SPECIFICATION FOR PVC
INSULATED ( HEAVY DUTY) ELECTRIC CABLES
PART 2 FOR WORKING VOLTAGES FROM 3.3 kV UP TO AND
INCLUDING 1 100 kV

( Second Revision)

(Pag« 1, clause 0.7 ) - Substitute the following for the existing clause:
'0.7 A special category of cables with improved fire performance bas been
included in this standard. Classification of such cables is given in Appendix A.'
( Page 2, clause 1.3) -Insert the following ItC\\' clause 1.4 after 1.3:
'1.4 This standard also covers cables with improved fire performance,
categories Cl and C2, as given in Appendix A. For such cables additional
requirements have been included wherever necessary ( see 8.2, 18.1.3, 18.2.2
and 20.2.1 ).
Non - Normal cables 10 thi~ standard can he classified as meeting the requirements of
category 0 I. ·

[ Page 3, clause 7.1 (b) J - Substitute 'formed wires' for 'strip'.

(Page 3, clause 7.% ) - Substitutethe following for the first sentence:
'The galvanized steel wire/formed wires/tapes shall comply with the
requirements of IS 3975: 1988, except that the provisions of 3.3.1 and 3.3.2
shaII not apply.'
i Page 3, clause 8.1 ) - Insert the following nC\\J clause 8.2 after 8.1:
'8.2 For cables with improved fire performance, the outer sheath shall, in
addition, meet the requirement of tests applicable for 'he required category
( 18.1.3 and 18.%.2 ) .'
(Page 5, clause 17.3.2) line 3 ) - Substitute 'Table 4' for 'Table 5'.
( Page 6, clause 18.1.1.1 ) - Insert tbe foJJowing new clause 11.1.3 after
11.1.2.1:
'18.1.3 The following shall constitute additional type tests for cables with
improved fire performance as per the categories given in Appendix A:
 AMENDMENT NO.2 JANUARY 2007
TO
IS 1554 (PART 2): 1988 SPECIFICATION FOR PVC
INSULATED (REAVY DUlY) ELECTRIC CABLES

PART 2 FOR WORKING VOLTAGES FROM 3.3 kV

UP TO AND INCLUDING 1 100 kV

( Second Revisio«)

[Page 6, clause 18.1.3, col 4 (see also Amendment No.1)] - Delete

'Under preparation' for category Cl and Test (a) under For Test Method Refer
Part No. ofIS 10810.

[Page 6, clause 18.1.3, col 4 (see also Amendment No.1») - Substitute

'64' for 'Under consideration' for category Cl and Test (d) under For Test
Method Refer Part No. ofIS 10810.

[Page 6, clause 18.1.3, col 4 (see a/so Amendment No.1)] - Delete

'Under preparation' for category C2 and Test (a) under For Test Method Refer
Part No. ofIS 108/0. .

[Page 6, clause 1:8.1.3, col 4 (see a/so Amendment No.1») - Substitute

'64' for 'Under consideration' for category C2 and Test (g) under For Test
MethodRefer Pari No. ofIS 10810.

(ET9)

Reprography Unit, BIS, New Delhi, India

 AMENDMENT NO.3 NOVEMBER 2007
TO
IS 1554 (pART 2): 1988 SPECIFICATION FOR PVC
INSULATED
-.
(HEAVY DUTy) ELECTRIC CABLES
PART 2 FOR WORKING VOLTAGES FROM 3.3 kV UP TO
AND INCLUDING 11 kV

( Second Revision)

[Page 3, clause 7.t(b)] - Substitute 'Galvanized steel formed wire (strip),

or' for 'Galvanized steel strip, or'.

iPag« 3, clause 7.2, line 1) - Substitute the following for the existing
matter:

"The galvanized round steel wires/formed steel wires (strips) used for armouring
shall conform to IS 3975 : 1999*.'

(Page 3,footnote marked .) - Substitute the following for the existing:

··Low carbon galvanized steel wires, formed wires and tapes for armounng of cables -
Specificatron '

(Page 4, clause 16.3, line 2) - Insert the following at the end:

"The tolerance on nominal dimensions shall be as per IS 3975 : 1999. However,

for formed steel wires compliance shall be ensured only for dimensions' A' &
'C'."

(Page 4, clause 16.5) -Insert the following new clause after 16.5:

'16.6 The round steel wires/formed steel wires taken from the cable shall meet
the following requirements:

a) The tensile strength of round steel wire/formed steel wire shall be not
less than 250 N/mm 2 and not more 580 Nzmrn",

b) The Elongation at break of round steel wire/formed steel wire shall be

not less than 6 percent.
Amend No.3 to IS t 554 (Part 2) : 1988

c) Round steel wire shall meet the requirements of torsion test. The
gauge length between Vices and the minimum number of turns
without break shall be as per Table 6 of IS 3975 : 1999.

d) The zinc coating shall not show any cracks and shall not flake off on
rubbing by the bare finger when the formed steel wire is subjected to
winding test.

e) The uniformity of zinc coating of round steel wire/formed steel wire

shall comply with the requirements of IS 3975 : 1999 subject to the
following:
- The minimum number of dips shall be reduced by one half-minute
dip
- In case of formed wires, dip test is applicable only for the face.
f) The mass of zinc coating of round steel wire shall be not less than 95
percent of the mass specified in Table 2 of IS 4826 : 1979.

The mass of zinc coating of formed steel wire shall not be less than
95 percent of the mass specified in IS 3975 : 1999.

g) The resistivity of the round steel wire/formed steel wire shall meet the
requirements of IS 3975 : 1999.'

[Page 5, clause 18.1, S/ No. (b)] - Substitute the following for the
existing matter:

b) Tests for round steel wire/formed steel

wire (strip) armour:
1) Dimensions 16.3 of Part 36 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
2) Physical tests on round/formed wire:
i) Tensile strength 16.6(a) of Part 37 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
ii) Elongation at break 16.6(b) of Part 37 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
iii) Torsion test for round wires 16.6(c) of Part 38 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
iv) Winding test for formed wires 16.6(d) of Part 39 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
2
 Amend No.3 to IS 1554 (Part 2) : 1988

v) Uniformity of zinc coating 16.6(e) of Part 40 of

IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
-vi) Mass of zinc coating 16.6(t) of Part 41 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810
vii) Resistivity 16.6(g) of Part 42 of
IS 1554 (Part 2) IS 10810

(Page 6,footnote marked t) - Substitute the following for the existing:

~tLow carbon galvaruzed steel wires. formed wires and tapes for armounng of cables -
Specification'

(ET 09)

Reprography Unit, 81S, New Deihl, India

3
 IS : 1554 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

Indian Standard
SPECIFICATION FOR PVC INSULATED
( HEAVY DUTY) ELECTRIC CABLES
PART 2 FOR WORKING VOLTAGES FROM 3·3 kV UP TO AND INCLUDING 11 kV

( Second Revision)
o. F a REwa RD
0.1 This Indian Standard (Second Rivision ) was Meanwhile, users are advised to consult the
adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards on manufacturers for information on this aspect.
25 July 1988, after the draft finalized by the
Power Cables Sectional Committee had been 0.6 The correct type of cables should be selected
approved by the Elcctrotechnical Division for the system keeping in view whether the
Council. system is earthed or unearthed.
0.2 The experience has shown that it is possible NOTE - It should be realized that in an electric
to use PVC insulated cables for the voltage system where an earth fault is not automatically and
grades covered by this standard, in place of promptly eliminated, the extra stresses on the insula-
tion of the cables during the earth fault reduce the
paper-insulated lead-sheathed cables. life of the cable to a certain extent. Therefore, if the
system is expected to be operated Quite often with a
0.3 This standard was first brought out in 1970 prolonged earth-fault, it is advisable to select the
and revised in 1981. The second revision of the cables suitable for unearthed system.
standard has been undertaken to take into
account experience gained since last revision. 0.7 Work is being taken up separately to identify
Opportunity has also been utilized to align the requirements and tests for fire retardant low
format of this specification with other specifica- smoke ( FRLS ) cables. It is intended to bring out
tions on different types of cables. these requirements either as a separate standard
or through an amendment to this standard at a
0.4 Particular attention is drawn to the limita- later date.
tions of the short-circuit ratings of the type of
cable covered by this standard owing to the 0.8 In preparing this standard. assistance has
absence of the metallic sheath and the possible been derived from ire Publication 502 ( 1983 )
loss of electrical contact between stands of 'Extruded solid dielectric insulated power cables
adjacent wires/stripe of ar rnouring as a result of for rated voltages from 1 kV up to 30 kV', issued
corrosion or the presence of compound between by the International Electrotechnical Commis-
them or both. sion.
A separate standard about recommended 0.9 For the purpose of deciding whether a
short-circuit ratings of these types of cables is particular requirement of this standard is com-
under preparation. plied with. the final value, observed or calculated.
expressing the result of a test. shall be rounded
0.5 Attention is also drawn to the fact that the off in accordance with IS : 2-1960·. The number
current ratings of the type of cable covered by
of significant places retained in the rounded off
this standard are different from those of the
values should be the same as that of the specified
paper-insulated metal-sheathed cables. This
value in this standard.
standard does not Include any data on the current
ratings but information 011 this aspect will be
covered later in a separate Indian Standard. ·Rules for rounding off numerical values (revised).

SECTION 1 GENERAL
I. SCOPE electricity supply purposes:
a) Types of Cables
t. t This standard (Part 2 ) covers the require- 1) Single-core unscreened, unarmoured
ments of the following categories of PVC ( but non-magnetic metallic tape
insulated and PVC sheathed power cables for covered );
 IS: 1554 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

2) Single-core screened, unarmoured; performance characteristics to meet the intended

3) Single-core armoured ( non-magnetic ), application.
screened or unscreened; and NOTE - These tests are of such a nature that, after
4) Three-core armoured, screened or they have been made, they need not be repeated unless
unscreened. changes are made in the cable materials or design
which might change the performance characteristic.
b) Voltage Grade ( Uo/U) 2.3 Acceptance Tests - Tests carried out on
samples taken from a lot for the purpose of
NOTE - The cables conforming to this standard acceptance of the lot.
may be operated continuously at a power frequency
voltage up to 10 percent hiaher than rated voltage. 2.4 Optional Tests - Special tests to be carried
out, when required, by agreement between the
1.2 The cables covered in this standard are used purchaser and the supplier.
where combination of ambient temperature and
temperature rise due to load results in conductor 2.5 Earthed System - An electric system which
temperature not exceeding 70°C under normal ope- fulfils any of the following conditions:
ration and 160°C under short-circuit conditions. a) The neutral-point or the mid-point connec-
1.3 Heavy duty armoured cables specified in this tion is earthed in such a manner that, even
standard are suitable for use in mines also. under fault conditions. the maximum
However, for such cables, additional require- voltage that can occur between any con-
ments have been included, wherever necessary ductor and the earth does not exceed
[see 3.1.1, 16.5, 18.3(d) and 20.2]. 80 percent of the nominal system voltage;
b) The neutral-point or the mid-point connec-
2. TERMINOLOGY tion is not earthed but a protective device
is installed which automatically cuts out
2.0 For the purpose of this standard, the follow- any part of the system which accidentally
ing definitions, in addition to those given in becomes earthed; or
lS : 1885 ( Part 32 )-1971*, shall apply.
c) In case of ac systems only, the neutral
2.1 Routine Tests - Tests made by the manu- point is earthed through an arc suppression
facturer on all finished cable lengths to coil with arrangement for isolation within
demonstrate the integrity of the cable. 1 h of occurrence of the fault for the non-
2.2 Type Tests - Tests required to be made radial field cables and within 8 h for radial
before supply on a general commercial basis a cables, provided that the total of such
type of cable in order to demonstrate satisfactory periods in a year does not exceed 125 h.
2.6 Unearthed System - An electric system which
*Electrotechnical vocabulary: Part 32 Cables, con- does not fulfil the requirement of the earthed
ductors and accessories for electricity supply. system ( see 2.5 ).

SECTION 2 MATERIALS
3. CONDUCTOR of the following, as specified:
3.1 The conductor shall be of plain copper or a) Non-metaJIic semi-conducting tape;
aluminium wires complying with IS ; 8130-1984*. b) Non-metalJic semi-conducting compound;
and
3.1.1 Cables to be used in gassy mines shall be
of copper conductor only. c) Non-magnetic metallic tape wire, strip or
sheath.
4. INSULATION NOTE - The semi-conducting tape and semi-con-
ducting compound shall be suitable for the operatina
4.1 The insulation shall be of polyvinyl chloride temperature of the cable and compatible with the
insulating material.
( PVC) compound conforming to the require-
ments of Type A compound for cables with rated 5.1.1 Non-magnetic Metallic Tape for Single-
voltages up to and including 3'3/3-3 kY and Type Core Unscreened and Unarmoured Cables -- Re-
B compound for cables with rated voltages above quirements for this tape shall be as agreed to
3'3/3'3 kV of IS : 5831-1984f. between the purchaser and the manufacturer.

5. SCREENING 6. FILLERS AND INNER SHEATH

6.1 The fillers and inner sheath shall be of the
5.1 The screening shall consist of one or more following types:
·Specification for conductors lor insulated electric a) Unvulcanized rubber, or
cables and flexible cords (/ir,t revision ). b) Thermoplastic material, or
tSpeci6cation for PVC insulation and sheath of
electric cables (fir" reviston ), c) Proofed tapes ( for inner sheath only).
2
 IS : lSS4 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

6.2 Unvulcanized rubber or thermoplastic 7.2 The galvanized steel wires/strips shall comply
material shall not be harder than PVC used for with the requirements of IS : 3975- J979*. The
insulation (4.1) and for outer sheath (8.1). requirements of non-magnetic material shall be
The materials shall be chosen to be compatible as agreed to between the purchaser and the
with the temperature rating of the cable and supplier.
shall have no deleterious effect on any other
component of the cable. 8. OUTER SHEATH
8.1 The outer sheath shall be of polyvinyl chlo-
7. ARMOURING ride ( PVC) compound conforming to the
requirements of Type STI compound of
7.1 Armouring shall be of the following types: IS : 5831-1984t.
.a) Galvanized round steel wire, or
·Specjfi~ation for mild steel wires. strips and tapes
b) Galvanized steel strip, or for armourmg of cables ( first revision ),
tSpecification for PVC insulation and sheath of
c) Any metallic non-magnetic wire/strip. electric cables (first revision ).

SECTION 3 CONSTRUCTION
9. CONDUCTOR
TABLE 1 THICKNESS OF INSULATION
9.1 The conductor shall be of stranded construc- ( Clauses 11. 2 and 11. 3 )
tion, size 25 mms and above complying with
Class 2 of IS : 8130-1984*. NOMINAL THICKNESS OP INSULATION (rr)
AReA OP , . . - - - - .A. ~

9.2 In case of 3'3 and 6'6 kV cables. a protective CONDUC- 1'9/3-3 and 3'8/6'6 kV 6'35/11 kV
barrier may be applied between the conductor TOR 3'3/3' 3 kV
,.- ~ , , - - _ ..... _~ r---A-~
and insulation. Such barrier, when used, shall be Single- Single- Single- Single- Single
compatible with insulating material and suitable core core core core core
for the operating temperature of the cable. armour- un- armour- un- and 3-
ed cable armour- ed armour- core
10. CONDUCTOR SCREENING ed and cables ed and cab) es
3~ore 3~o~
10.1 Cables rated for 6-35/1 I kV shall be provid- cables cables
ed with conductor screening. Conductor screen- (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
ing shall be provided over the conductor by mm' mm mm mm mm mm
applying non-metallic semi-conducting tape or by 25 2'6 2'3 3'9 3'6 4'2
extrusion of semi-conducting compound or a 35 2'6 2'3 3'9 3'6 4'2
combination of the two. SO 2'6 2'3 3-9 3'6 "4'2
70 2'6 2'3 3'9 3'6 4'2
95 26 2'3 3'9 3'6 42
11. INSULATION 120 2'6 2'3 3'9 3'6 4-2
11.1 The conductor ( with protective barrier or ISO 2'6 2'3 3'9 3'6 4'2
screen, where applied) shall be provided with 185 2'6 2'3 3'9 3'6 4'2
240 2'6 2-3 3'9 3'6 4'2
PVC insulation applied by extrusion. 300 28 2'S 4'0 3'6 4-2
11.2 Thickness of Insulation --- The average 400 3'} 2'7 4'0 3'6 4'2
500 3-4 3'0 4'0 3'6 4'2
thickness of insulation shall not be less than the 630 3'9 3'4 4'} 3'6 4'2
nominal value ( t1 ) specified in Table 1. 800 3'9 J'4 4'1 3'6 4'2
11.3 Tolerance on Thickness of Insulation - The 1000 3'9 3'4 4'1 36 4'2
smallest of the measured values of the thickness
of insulation shall not fall below the nominal 12.2 The insuJation screening shall consist of
values ( 11 ) specified in Table 1 by more than two parts, namely, metallic and non-metallic.
0'1 mm + 0'1 ti-
11.4 Application of Insulation - The insulation 12.3 Non-metalJic part shall be applied directly
shall be so applied that it fits closely on the over the insulation of each core and shall
conductor (or conductor screening or barrier, consist of either a semi-conducting tape or
jf any) and it shall be possible to remove it extruded semi-conducting compound or a combi-
without damaging the conductor. nation of the two or either material with a
semi-conducting coating.
12. INSULATION SCREENING 12.4 Mel allic part shall consist of either tape or
12.1 Cables rated for 6'35/11 kV shall be braid or concentric serving of wires or a sheath,
provided with insulation screening. shall be noa-rnagnetic and shall be applied over
the non-metallic part. For single-core armoured
·Speciftcation for conductors for insulated electric cabJes, the armouring may constitute the metallic
cables and flexible cords (first revision ). part of the screening.

3
 IS : 15~ ( Part 2 ) • 1988

13. CORE IDENTIFICATION

TABLE 2 THICKNESS OF INNER SHEATH
13. t Core identification for three-core cables ( Clause 15.4 )
shall be as follows: All d imensions in milhmetres.
Voltage Grade Method of Identification CALCULATED DIAMETER OVER THICKNESS OF INN'Blt.
kV STRANJ>EO CORES [REFER SHBATH ( Min)

1'9/3'3 1 a) Different colouring of the

PVC insulation, or
IS: 10462 ( PART 1 )-
1983*J
, . - - -_ _ J.-

Over
~

Up to and
3'3/3'3 I b) Coloured strips applied on Including
~ the cores, or (I) (2) (3)
3'8/6'6 I c) By numerals ( 1, 2, 3), either 25 0'3

J by applying numbered strips

or by printing on the cores.
25
35
45
~~
35
4S
55
0'4
0'5
0'6
6'35/11 a) Coloured strips applied 04~ 0'7
the cores, or ·Fictitious calculation method for determination of
dimensions of protective coverings of cables: Part 1
b) By numerals ( 1. 2, 3), either Elastorneric and thermoplastic insulated cables.
by applying numbered strips
or by printing on the cores. 16.1.2 The armour wires/strips shall be applied
as closely as practicable.
13.1.1 For identification by different colouring
of the PVC insulation or by using coloured 16.1.3 (he direction of lay of the armour shall
strips. Red, yellow and blue colours respectively be left hand. For double Wires/strips armoured
shall be used to identify phase conductors. cables. this requirement shall apply to the inner
layer of wires/strips. The outer layer shall,
14. LAVING UP OF CORES except in special cases. be applied in the reverse
direction to the inner layer, and there shall be
14.1 In three-core cables. the cores (with or a separator of suitable non-hygroscopic material,
without barrier or screening as the case may be ) such as plastic tape, bituminized cotton tape,
shall be laid together with a suitable right hand bituminized hessian tape. rubber tape, and
lay. Where necessary, the interstices shall be proofed tape between the inner and outer layers
filled with non-hygroscopic material. of armour wires strips.
16.1.4 A binder tape may be provided on the
15. INNER SHEATH (COMM ON COVERING) armour.
15.1 The laid-up cores shall be provided with 16.2 Type of Armour
inner sheath applied either by extrusion or by
wrapping. It shall be ensured that the shape is 16.2.1 Where the calculated diameter below
as circular as possible. armouring does not exceed 13 mm, the armour
shall consist of galvanized round steel wires. The
15.2 Inner sheath shall be so applied that it fits armour of cables having calculated diameter
closely on the laid-up cores and it shall be possi- below armouring greater than 13 mm shall
ble to remove it without damaging the insulation. consist of either galvanized round steel wires or
galvanized steel strips.
15.3 In case of single core cables where there 16.2.2 I n the case single-core cables, the
arc both metallic screening and armouring, there armouring shall be of non-magnetic material.
shall be extruded inner sheath between them.
16.3 Dimensions - The dimensions of galvanized
15.4 Thickness of Inner Sheath - The values of steel wires/strips shall be as specified in Table 3.
thickness of inner sheath shall be as given in 16.4 Joints - The joints in armour wires or
Table 2. Single-core cables, except those speci- strips shall be made by brazing or welding and
fied in 15.3, shall have no inner sheath. any surface irregularities shall be removed. A
15.4.1 When one or more layers of binder joint in any wire/strip shall be at least 300 mm
tapes are applied over the laid-up cores, the from the nearest joint in any other wire or strip
thickness of such tapes shall not be construed as in the completed cable.
a part of inner sheath. 16.5 Reslstaeee -- In case of cables for use in
mines. the resistance of armour shall not exceed
16. ARMOURING that of conductor as specified in IS: 8130-1984*
by more than 33 percent. To satisfy this,
16.1 Application substitution of galvanized Wires/strips in the
armour by- required number of thinner copper
16.1.1 Armouring shall be applied over insula- wires/strlps is permissible.
tion or non-metallic part of insulation or inner
sheath in case of single core cables and over the .Specification for conductors for insulated electric
inner sheath in case of three core cables. cables and flexible cords (first revision ).

4
 IS : 1554 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

TABLE 3 DIMENSIONS OF ARMOUR - ROUND

17.3 Thickness of Outer Sheath
WIRES AND STRIPS
17.3.1 Unarmoured Cables - The thickness of
( Clause 16,3 ) outer sheath of unarmoured cables determined
All dimensions in millimetres. by taking the average of a number of measure.
ments shall be not less than the nominal value
CALCULATED DIAMf!:TEK OP NOMINAL NOMINAL
CABLE UNDER ARMOUR THICKNI!SS DIAMETeR specified in col 3 of Table 4 and the smallest of
[REfER IS : 10462 ( PART 1)- Of STEEL OF ROUND the measured values shall be not less the
1983·1 STRIP ARMOUR minimum value specified in col 4 of Table 4,
,-_._--_....._------. WIRE
Over Up to and
Including TABLE 4 THICKNESS OF OUTER SHEATH
(I) (2) (3) (4)
(Clauses 17,3,1 and )7,3,2)
a) For all diameters in 0'8
excess of 13 All dimensions in milhmetres.
or
b) 13 1'40 CALCUL,<\Teo DIA· THICKNESS OF OUTER MINIMUMTHICK ..
13 25 0'8 1'60 MFTER UNDER THE SHEATH FOR NESS Of OUTER.
25 40 0'8 2'()() OUTER SHEATH UNARMQUREO SHEATH fOR
40 55 1'4 2-50 [REf IS: 10462 CABLES ARMOURED
55 70 )'4 3'15 ( PART \ )-1'83· I CABLE
70 1'4 400 ~--~---, ~~
Over Up to and Nominal Minimum
NOTE- la) and (1)) indicate two method of practice Including ( t. )
in the application of armouring.
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
·Fictitious calculation method for determination of
dimensions of protective coverings of cables: Part 1 J5 )'8 l'24 J'24
Flastomeric and thermoplastic insulated cables. \5 25 20 140 1'40
25 35 2-2 \'56 \'56
35 40 2-4 1'72 )'72
17. OUTER SHEATH 40 45 2-6 )'88 l'88
45 50 2-8 2-04 2'04
17.1 The outer sheath shall be applied by extru- 50 55 3-0 2'20 2-20
sion, It shall be applied: 55 60 3'2 2'36 2'36
60 65 3-4 2'52 2'52
a) Over the non-magnetic metallic tape 65 70 3-6 2-68 2'68
covering the insulation or over the non- 70 75 3-8 284 2'84
magnetic metallic part of insulation 75 4'0 3'00 3'00
screening in case of unarmoured single
core cables, and ·Fictitious calculation method for determination of
protective coverings of cables: Part I Elastomeric and
b) Over the armouring in case of armoured thermoplastic insulated cables,
cables,
17.2 The colour of outer sheath shall be black. 17.3.2 Armoured Cables - The thickness of
unless any other colour is agreed to between the outer sheath shall be not less than the minimum
purchaser and the supplier, value specified in col 5 of Table 5,

SECTION 4 TESTS

18. CLASSIFlCATION 01<' TESTS type tests:

18.1 Type Tests .- The following shall constitute

Test For Requirements, For Test Method.

ReJ to Ref Part No. of
IS: 10810·
a) Tests on Conductor
I) Annealing test (for copper) IS: 8130.198..t I
2) Tensile test ( for aluminium) IS: 8130-1984t 2
3) Wrapping test ( for aluminium) IS: 8130-1984t 3
4) Resistance test IS : 8130- I984t 5
b) Tests for armouring wires or strips 7, 1.1ble 3 and
IS: 3975-1979; 36 to 42
c) Test for thickness of insulation and sheath I I, 15 and 17 6

5
IS : 1554 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

Test For Requirements, For Test Methods

Ref to Ref Part No. of
IS : 10810·
d) Physical tests for insulation and outer sheath
( as applicable ):
1) Tensile strength and elongation at break IS = 5831-1984§ 7
2) Ageing in air oven IS : 5831-1984§ 11
3) Shrinkage test IS : 583l-1984§ 12
4) Hot deformation test IS : 5831-l984§ 15
5) Loss of massIn air oven IS : 5831-1984§ 10
6) Heat shock test IS : 5831-1984§ 14
7) Thermal stability IS : 5831-1984§ 60
8) Water absorption ( gravimetric) IS : 5831-1984§ 33
( for insulation, where applicable)
e) Insulation resistance test IS: 5831-1984§ 43
f) Partial discharge test 19.2 46
g) Bending test 19.3 50
h) Dielectric power factor test 19.4 48
1) As a function of voltage
2) As a function of temperature
j) Heating cycle test 19.5 49
k) Impulse withstand test 19.6 47
m) High voltage test 19.7 45
n) Flammability test 19.8 S3

*Methods of test for cables.

tSpecification for conductors for insulated electric cables and flexible cords (first revision ).
:Specification for mild steel wires, strips and tapes for armouring of cables (first revision ).
§Specification for PVC insulation and sheath of electric cables (first revision ).

18.1.1 Tests (f), (g), (h), (j) and (k) are appli- f) Impulse withstand test: and
cable to cables with screened cores, that is,
6·35/11 kV cables. It shall be permissible to g) High voltage test.
carry out test (h) on different samples. 18.1.2.1 If a sample fails in test ( g ), one
18.1.2 With the exception and provision of more sample shall be taken for this test, preced-
18.1. t, the following tests on screened cables shall ed by test ( b ) and ( e ).
be performed successively on the same test sample
of completed cable not less than 10m in length 18.2 Acceptance Tests - The following tests shall
between the test accessories: be carried out as acceptance tests:

a) Partial discharge test; a) Annealing test ( for copper ),

b) Bending test followed by partial discharge b) Tensile test ( for aluminium ),
test;
c) Wrapping test ( for aluminium ),
c) Dielectric power factor as a function ofthe
voltage and capacitance measurement; d) Conductor resistance test,
d) Dielectric power factor as a function of e) Test for thickness of insulation and sheath,
temperature;
f) Tensile strength and elongation at break of
e) Heating cycle test followed by dielectric insulation and outer sheath,
power factor as a function of voltage and
partial discharge test; g) Test for insulation resistance,

6
 IS : lSS4 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

h) Partial discharge test (for 6·35/11 kV b) As a Function of Temperature

cables only), and Tan 0 at ambient temperature I 000 x 10-"
j) High voltage test. At maximum continuous operating 0·75
Non - The partial discharge test shall be carried temperature, product of permi-
out on full drum length. tivity and tan 8
18.2.1 A recommended sampling plan for 19.5 Heating Cycle Test - The sample, which
acceptance tests is given in Appendix A. has been subjected to the previous tests, shall be
subjected to heat cycles. After the third cycle,
18.3 Routine Tests - The following shall be the sample shall be subjected to dielectric power
carrled out as routine tests: factor as a function of voltage [19.4(a)1 and
a) Conductor resistance test, partial discharge test ( 19.2 ).
b) Partial discharge test (for 6·35111 kV 19.6 Impulse Witbstand Test - The cable shall
cables only), withstand an impulse voltage of 75 kV. No
breakdown of insulation shall occur during the test.
c) High voltage test, and
d) Resistance test for armour (for mining 19.7 High Voltage Test
cable ).
19.7.1 Typel Acceptance Test - The cable shall
NOTE - Partial discharge test shall be carried out
on full drum length. withstand without breakdown an ac voltage equal
to 3 Uo but not Jess than the value given in 19.7.2
18.4 Optional Test - Cold impact test shall cons- when applied to tbe sample between conductor
titute the optional test. and screen/metallic tape/armour (and between
conductors in case of unscreened cables ). The
19. DETAILS OF TEST voltage shall be gradually increased to specified
value and maintained for a period of 4 hours. If,
19.1 General - Unless otherwise stated in this while testing, interruption occurs during 4 hours
standard, the tests shall be carried out in accor- period, the test shall be prolonged to the same
dance with appropriate part of IS: 10810·, taking extent. If the interruption exceeds 30 minutes,
into account additional information given in this the test shall be repeated.
standard.
19.7.2 Routine Test -- The cable shall with-
19.2 Partial Discharge Test - The partial dis- stand without any failure the ac test voltages
charge magnitude at test voltage equal 10 1·5 V o given below, when applied for a period of 5
shall not exceed 40 pC. minutes for each test connection:
19.3 Bending Test - The diameter of the test
cylinder shall be 20 D ± 5 percent, where D is Voltage Grade Test Voltage
the overall diameter of completed cable. After r----- - .--../'-..------~

completing the bending operations, the test sample Between Conduc- Between
shall be subjected to partial discharge measure- tor and Screen/ Conductor
ment and shall comply with the requirements Armour
given in 19.2. kV kV (rms) kV (rms)
19.4 Dielectric Power Factor Test - The rneasur- 1·9/3·3 10 10
ed values shall not exceed the following: 3·3/3'3
3'8/6-6 12 20
a) As a Function of Voltage
6·35/11 17
Tan 8 at U« 1 000 X 10-4
Increment of tan 8 65 X 10-4 19.8 Flammability Test - Period of burning after
removal of the flame shall not exceed 60 seconds
between 0'5 Uo and 2 u, and the unaffected ( uncharred ) portion from the
lower edge of the top clamp shall be at least
*Methods of test for cables. 50mm.

SECTION 6 IDENTIFICATION, PACKING AND MARKING

20. IDENTIFICATION of these methods is employed or if the purchaser
so desires, colour identificauon threads in accor-
20.1 Manufacturer's Identification - The manu- dance with a scheme to be approved by the
facturer shall be identified throughout the length Bureau of Indian Standards shall be employed.
or cable by manufacturer's name or trade-mark,
and the voltage grade and year of manufacture 20.2 Cable Identification - In case of cables
indented, printed or embossed or by means of a intended for use in mines, the word 'Mining'
tape bearing this information. The indentation, sball be printed, embossed or indented on the
printing or embossing shall be done only on the outer sheath throughout the length of the
outer sheath. For manufacturer's name, if none cable.

7
IS : lSS4 ( Part 2 ) - 1988

20.3 Cable Code - The following codes shall be b) Manufacturer's name or trade-mark;
used for designating the cables: c) Type of cable and voltage grade;
Const i tuen t Code Letter d) Number of co' is;
Aluminium conductor A e) Nominal cross-sectional area of the
y conductor;
PVC insulation
f) Cable code;
Steel round wire armour W
g) Length of the cable on the drum;
Non-magnetic round wire Wa
armour h) Number 01 lengths on drum (if more than
F one ):
Steel strip armour
j) Direction of rotation of drum ( by means
Non-magnetic strip armour Fa of an arrow);
Double steel wire armour WW k) Approximate gross mass;
Double steel strip armour FF m) Country of manufacture; and
PVC outer sheath y
n) Year of manufacture.
NOTE - In case of copper conductor. there is no
need to use any code for designating conductor. 21.2.1 The cable ( drum) may also be marked
with the Standard Mark.
21. PACKING AND MARKING
NnTE - The use of the Standard Mark is governed
21.1 The cable shall be wound on a drum ( see by the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards
]S: IO'i] 8-) 9R2*) of suitable size and packed. Act 1986 and the Rules and Regulations made there-
The ends of the cable shall be sealed by means under The Standard Mark on products covered by
an Indian Standard conveys the assurance that they
of non-hygroscopic sealing material. have been produced to comply with the requirements
of that standard under a well defined system of ins-
21.2 The cable shall carry the following informa- pection, testing and quality control which is devised
tion stencilled on the drum: and supervised by BIS and operated by the producer.
Standard marked products are also continuously
a) Reference to this Indian Standard, for checked by BIS for conformity to that standard as a
example, ref IS: 1554 ( Part 2); further safeguard. Details of conditions under
which a licence for the use of the Standard Mark may
be granted to manufacturers or producers may be
·Specification for drums for electric cables. obtained from the Bureau of Indian Standards.

APPENDIX A
(Clause 18.2.1 )
SAMPLING OF CABLES
A-t. LOT The samples shall be taken at random.
A-t.t In any consignment, the cables of the A-2.2.1 In order to ensure the randomness of
same size manufactured under essentially similar selection, random number tables shall be used
conditions of production shall be grouped ( see IS : 4905-1968* ).
together to constitute a lot.
A-2. SCALE OF SAl\1PLING A-3. NUMBER OF TESTS AND CRITERION
A-2.1 Samples shall be taken and tested from FOR CONFORMITY
each lot for ascertaining the conformity of the
lot to the requirements of the specification. A-3.1 Suitable lengths of test samples shall be
A-2.2 The number of samples to be selected taken from each of the drums selected. These
shan depend on col 1 and 2 as indicated below: test samples shall be subjected to each of the
acceptance tests ( 18.2). A test sample is called
Number of Drums Number of Permissible defective if it fails in anyone of the acceptance
in the Lot Drums to Number of tests. If the number of defectives is less than or
be Taken Defectives equal to the corresponding permissible number
as Sample given in col 3 under A-2.2, the lot shall be
(N) (n) (a) declared as conforming to the requirements of
(I) (2) (3) acceptance tests, otherwise not.
Up to 50 2 o
51 to 100 S o
101 to 300 JJ o
301 to 500 20 1
501 and above 32 2 ·Methods for random sampling.

8
Bureau of ladlaD Staadardll
BIS is a statutory institution established under the Bureau of Indian Standards Acr, 1986 to promote
harmonious development of the activities of standardization, marking and quality certification of goods and
attending to connectedmatters in the counlf)'.

Copyright
BIS has tbe copyright of all its publications. No part of these publications may be reproduced in any form
without the prior permission ad writing of BIS. This does not preclude the free use, in the course of
implementing the standard, of necessary details, such as symbols and sizes, type or grade designations.
Enquiries relating to copyright be addressed to the Director (Publication), BIS.

Review of Indian Standards

Amendments are issued to standards as the need arises on the basis of comments. Standards are also reviewed
periodically; a standard along with amendments is reaffirmed when such review indicates that no changes are
needed; if the review indicates that changes are needed, it is taken up for revision. Users of Indian Standards
should ascertain that they are in possession of the latest amendments or edition by referring to the latest issue
of 'BIS Handbook' and 'Standards Monthly Additions'

Amendments Issued Since Publication

Amend No. Date of Issue Text Affected

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