BS 6622 XLPE PVC 8.7/15kV Medium Voltage Copper Power Cable for Underground and Duct Installations Flame Retardant, Single & 3 Core

Application

Usage

Medium voltage PVC power cables for power networks, underground and in cable ducting.

Characteristics

Voltage Rating Uo/U (Um)

8.7/15 (17.5) kV

Temperature Rating

Fixed: 0°C to +90°C

Minimum Bending Radius

Single core - Fixed: 15 × overall diameter
3 core - Fixed: 12 × overall diameter
(Adjacent to joint/termination: Single core 12 × OD, 3 core 10 × OD, with former control)

Construction

Conductor

Class 2 stranded copper conductor

Conductor Screen

Semi-conductive XLPE

Insulation

XLPE

Insulation Screen

Semi-conductive XLPE

Metallic Screen

Individual or collective overall copper tape screen

Filler

PET fibres

Separator

Binding tape

Bedding

PVC

Armour

Single core: AWA
Multi-core: SWA

Sheath

PVC

Sheath Colour

Red, Black

Standards

Compliance

BS 6622, IEC/EN 60228

Flame Retardant

IEC/EN 60332-1-2

Electrical Characteristics

No. of Cores

Nominal Cross-Section (mm²)

Current Carrying Capacity – In Ground (20°C, A)

Current Carrying Capacity – In Air (30°C, A)

Conductor Losses in Ground (kW/km)

1

50

249

277

30.81

1

70

303

345

31.58

1

95

358

418

31.78

1

120

404

481

31.99

1

150

441

537

31.12

1

185

493

612

31.11

1

240

563

716

31.06

1

300

626

811

31.35

1

400

676

901

29.25

1

500

743

1006

28.15

1

630

-

-

-

3

50

210

206

65.75

3

70

256

257

67.63

3

95

307

313

70.12

3

120

349

360

71.62

3

150

392

410

73.76

3

185

443

469

75.36

3

240

513

553

77.40

3

300

576

635

79.60

3

400

650

731

81.10

3

500

-

-

-

DIMENSIONS

When it comes to medium voltage power distribution for underground and duct installations, the BS 6622 XLPE PVC 8.7/15kV Cable is widely recognized for its reliability, safety, and compliance with international standards. But what makes this cable suitable for demanding electrical networks, and how does it compare with similar models?

Where Can BS 6622 Cables Be Applied?

The BS 6622 XLPE PVC cable is engineered for underground and duct installations, supporting medium voltage distribution networks in both industrial and urban settings.

Key Application Scenarios:

  1. Underground Power Networks – Perfect for buried installations in soil or ducts without excessive mechanical stress.

  2. Industrial Facilities – Power supply to heavy machinery and distribution panels.

  3. Urban Infrastructure – Substations, road tunnels, and public buildings.

  4. Renewable Energy Projects – Medium voltage connections for wind farms or solar plants.

  5. Harsh Environments – Flame retardant properties ensure safety in high-risk installations.

Indonesian Case Study:
In Jakarta, several urban underground networks and industrial parks use BS 6622 8.7/15kV cables for reliable power supply. Contractors reported excellent handling during installation in ducts with multiple bends, and the flame-retardant feature provided compliance with local fire regulations.


What Are Common Questions About BS 6622 Cables?

How Do Single-Core and Three-Core Cables Differ?

Single-core cables are ideal for higher voltage transmission where each phase is separately armored, while three-core cables are more compact and used where three-phase distribution is required in a single assembly.

Comparison Table:

Feature

Single-Core

Three-Core

Armour Type

AWA (Aluminium)

SWA (Steel)

Installation Space

Requires more space due to multiple runs

Compact for three-phase installations

Weight

Lighter per meter

Heavier per meter

Bending Radius

15× diameter

12× diameter

Can BS 6622 Cables Be Installed in Water or Wet Ducts?

Yes, these cables are suitable for dry and wet ducts but require attention to water ingress at joints and terminations. PVC sheath and armouring provide mechanical protection, while proper sealing prevents moisture penetration.

What Are the Key Considerations for Underground Installation?

  1. Trench Depth: Typically ≥0.7 m to avoid accidental mechanical damage.

  2. Bedding: Sand or soft granular material recommended.

  3. Separation: Maintain minimum distances from other utility cables.

  4. Bends: Follow minimum bending radius strictly to prevent insulation stress.

How Does BS 6622 Compare with IEC 60502 Cables?

While both comply with international medium voltage standards, BS 6622 emphasizes flame retardancy (IEC 60332-1-2) and has optimized mechanical protection for underground installations, making it particularly suited for urban and industrial ducting in Indonesia.


What Installation Recommendations Should Be Followed?

Best Practices for BS 6622 Cable Installation:

  • Use Cable Rollers: Prevents conductor damage during pulling.

  • Avoid Sharp Bends: Follow minimum bending radius; use a former near joints if necessary.

  • Temperature Consideration: Avoid installation below 0°C to prevent insulation cracking.

  • Mechanical Protection: For exposed areas, additional concrete or HDPE ducts may be used.

  • Proper Terminations: Use certified medium voltage terminations to ensure safety and minimize partial discharge.


Why Is Flame Retardancy Important in Medium Voltage Cables?

BS 6622 cables are flame retardant according to IEC/EN 60332-1-2, making them essential in urban and industrial settings:

  • Limits fire spread along the cable route.

  • Reduces the risk of catastrophic failure in multi-cable ducts.

  • Complies with safety regulations in Indonesia for underground and building installations.


How to Choose the Right Cross-Section for Your Project?

Choosing the proper cross-section depends on current demand, installation method, and environmental conditions:

  1. Calculate Load Requirements: Base on expected current and voltage drop.

  2. Consider Installation Method: In air vs. in ground affects thermal dissipation.

  3. Future Expansion: Oversizing slightly ensures longevity and flexibility.

Example: A 300 mm² single-core cable can carry up to 811 A in air and 626 A underground, suitable for industrial substations or high-load networks.


Are There Real-World Applications in Indonesia?

Yes, BS 6622 cables have been successfully installed in:

  • Jakarta Metro Underground Network – Reliable medium voltage distribution in complex duct systems.

  • Industrial Parks in Surabaya – Powering manufacturing plants with high reliability and safety.

  • Solar PV Plants in West Java – Medium voltage interconnection with flame-retardant and robust mechanical protection.

These cases highlight the cable’s adaptability to both urban infrastructure and renewable energy projects.


The BS 6622 XLPE PVC 8.7/15kV Medium Voltage Copper Power Cable is a versatile, reliable, and flame-retardant solution for underground and duct installations. Its design and material composition ensure mechanical strength, electrical performance, and safety in both single-core and three-core configurations. By understanding its technical specifications, electrical characteristics, and proper installation methods, engineers and contractors can ensure efficient and long-lasting medium voltage networks.

CTA: Contact our technical team today for professional consultation, cable selection guidance, and installation support tailored to your Indonesian projects.