BS 6622 XLPE Copper AWA/SWA PVC Power Cable 6.35/11 (12)kV Underground & Ducting Electrical Network Cable
Application | Power cables for power networks, underground and in cable ducting. |
Characteristics | Voltage Rating Uo/U (Um): 6.35/11 (12) kV Temperature Rating:- Max conductor operating temp: 90°C- Initial temp at S.C.C for metallic screen: 80°C- Max conductor temp during S.C.: 250°C Minimum Bending Radius:- Single core: 15 x overall diameter- Multi core: 12 x overall diameter |
Construction | Conductor: Class 2 Stranded Circular Compacted Copper Conductor Screen: Extruded Inner Semi Conductor (Bonded Type) Insulation: XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) Outer Semi Conductor: Extruded Outer Semi Conductor (Strippable Type) Metallic Screen: Copper tape with 10% overlap Inner Sheath: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Armour: Single core: AWA (Aluminium Wire Armoured); Multi-core: SWA (Galvanised Steel Wire Armoured) Outer Sheath: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), Red/Black |
Standards | BS 6622, IEC 60502-2, IEC/EN 60228Flame Retardant according to IEC/EN 60332-1-2 |
Dimensions
No. of Cores | Nominal Cross Sectional Area (mm²) | Nominal Insulation Thickness (mm) | Nominal Outer Sheath Thickness (mm) | Nominal Overall Diameter (mm) | Nominal Weight (kg/km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 70 | 3.4 | 1.9 | 28.9 | 1424 |
1 | 95 | 3.4 | 1.9 | 30.2 | 1707 |
1 | 120 | 3.4 | 2.0 | 32.3 | 2046 |
1 | 150 | 3.4 | 2.1 | 33.9 | 2363 |
1 | 185 | 3.4 | 2.1 | 35.4 | 2735 |
1 | 240 | 3.4 | 2.2 | 38 | 3376 |
1 | 300 | 3.4 | 2.3 | 40.6 | 4012 |
1 | 400 | 3.4 | 2.4 | 44.6 | 5042 |
1 | 500 | 3.4 | 2.5 | 48.2 | 6154 |
1 | 630 | 3.4 | 2.6 | 53.3 | 7718 |
1 | 800 | 3.4 | 2.8 | 57.6 | 9616 |
3 | 70 | 3.4 | 2.7 | 54.6 | 5760 |
3 | 95 | 3.4 | 2.8 | 57.6 | 6732 |
3 | 120 | 3.4 | 3.0 | 61 | 7789 |
3 | 150 | 3.4 | 3.1 | 64.6 | 8916 |
3 | 185 | 3.4 | 3.2 | 68.3 | 10290 |
3 | 240 | 3.4 | 3.4 | 75.7 | 13367 |
3 | 300 | 3.4 | 3.4 | 81.5 | 15736 |
3 | 400 | 3.4 | 3.8 | 87.7 | 18907 |
What Are the Key Features of BS 6622 XLPE Copper Power Cables?
The BS 6622 cable is designed for medium-voltage power distribution. Its key features include:
Voltage Rating (Uo/U): 6.35/11 (12) kV
Maximum Conductor Temperature: 90°C during normal operation
Short-Circuit Temperature: up to 250°C
Flame Retardant: Compliant with IEC/EN 60332-1-2
Construction Standards: BS 6622, IEC 60502-2, IEC/EN 60228
These specifications make it suitable for underground power networks, ducts, and industrial installations where mechanical strength and electrical reliability are critical.
Where Is BS 6622 Cable Typically Used?
BS 6622 cables are widely used for power distribution networks, particularly in underground and ducted installations. Typical applications include:
Urban and industrial power networks
Underground substations and ducting systems
Mining, petrochemical, and industrial plants
Renewable energy plants with medium-voltage distribution
Its high thermal tolerance, mechanical strength, and flame-retardant properties make it ideal for environments where safety, reliability, and compliance are essential.
How Does BS 6622 Compare With Other Medium Voltage Cables?
Indonesian engineers often compare BS 6622 with similar IEC-compliant cables, such as BS 5467 and BS 6724. Key differences include:
Feature | BS 6622 | BS 5467 | BS 6724 |
|---|---|---|---|
Voltage Rating | 6.35/11 (12) kV | 1.9/3.3 kV | 0.6/1 kV |
Insulation | XLPE | PVC | LSZH XLPE |
Armour | AWA/SWA | SWA | SWA LSZH |
Application | Underground/ducting | Power networks | Fire-sensitive areas |
Flame Retardant | IEC 60332-1-2 | IEC 60332-1 | IEC 60332-1-2 |
This shows BS 6622 is preferred for medium-voltage networks requiring mechanical and thermal robustness, while BS 5467 and 6724 serve lower voltage or fire-sensitive applications.
What Are the Advantages of Using XLPE Insulation?
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) insulation offers:
Higher thermal rating: up to 90°C continuous operation
Chemical resistance: withstands oils, acids, and moisture
Mechanical robustness: resists cracking and abrasion
Long lifespan: reduces maintenance costs
Compared to PVC-only cables, XLPE ensures higher energy efficiency and long-term reliability in underground and ducting installations.
What Are Common Problems With BS 6622 Cables and How Can They Be Prevented?
Engineers frequently encounter issues if installation or operation is not optimized:
Overheating: Ensure cable sizing matches load and derating factors are applied.
Mechanical Damage: Use correct armour type (AWA/SWA) based on location.
Joint Failures: Follow proper stripping and crimping procedures.
Moisture Ingress: Ensure duct sealing and sheath integrity.
Regular inspection and testing can significantly extend the cable’s operational lifespan.
How Has BS 6622 Performed in Real Indonesian Projects?
A case study in Java, Indonesia highlights the reliability of BS 6622:
Project: Underground power network for a manufacturing facility
Installation: 3-core 185 mm² XLPE SWA PVC, 11 kV rating
Outcome: Zero failures over 5 years; minimal maintenance; compliance with IEC standards
Lessons Learned: Proper handling, minimum bending radius adherence, and quality jointing were key to performance
This real-world example confirms that BS 6622 cables are robust, reliable, and suitable for harsh industrial conditions.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About BS 6622 Cables
What is the difference between single-core and multi-core BS 6622 cables?
Single-core cables use AWA (aluminium wire armour) and are suitable for individual feeder circuits, while multi-core cables use SWA (steel wire armour) for higher mechanical protection and multiple circuits in the same duct.
Can BS 6622 cables be used outdoors?
Yes, the PVC outer sheath and armour provide environmental protection. However, prolonged UV exposure may require additional protective measures.
How do I choose the correct cable size?
Consider the load current, installation conditions, ambient temperature, and voltage drop. Standard tables and derating factors should be applied.
Are BS 6622 cables flame-retardant?
Yes, compliant with IEC 60332-1-2, reducing fire propagation in confined spaces such as ducts.
How do BS 6622 cables compare to LSZH cables?
LSZH cables reduce smoke and toxic gas during fire but are more sensitive to mechanical damage. BS 6622 offers superior mechanical and thermal robustness for medium-voltage applications.
Can I splice BS 6622 cables?
Splicing is possible but should be done with certified joint kits and professional electricians to maintain electrical and mechanical integrity.
Why Choose BS 6622 XLPE Copper AWA/SWA PVC Cables?
International Standards Compliance: BS 6622, IEC 60502-2, IEC/EN 60228
Medium-Voltage Reliability: 6.35/11 (12) kV rating
Mechanical Protection: Armour suitable for underground, ducting, and industrial environments
Thermal Stability: XLPE insulation with 90°C operation and 250°C short-circuit rating
Flame Retardant: Safety in confined or high-density installations
For electrical engineers, utility companies, and industrial operators in Indonesia, choosing BS 6622 XLPE Copper AWA/SWA PVC 6.35/11 (12)kV cables ensures long-term reliability, compliance, and safety. Contact trusted suppliers today to request technical datasheets, price quotes, and installation support for your next underground or ducting project.
