BS 6622 XLPE/PVC Medium Voltage 19/33 (36)kV Armoured Power Cable Single & Multi-Core Copper Conductor for Underground & Direct Burial Applications
Application | Power cables for power networks, underground and in cable ducting. Suitable for direct burial. |
Voltage Rating Uo/U (Um) | 19/33 (36) kV |
Temperature Rating | Fixed: 0°C to +90°CInitial temperature at S.C.C for metallic screen: 80°CMaximum conductor temperature during S.C: 250°C |
Minimum Bending Radius | Fixed: 15 × overall diameter |
Standards | BS 6622, EN 60228, IEC 60502-2Flame Retardant according to IEC/EN 60332-1-2 |
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 (Aluminium Wire Armoured); Multi-core: SWA (Steel Wire Armoured) Sheath: PVC Sheath Colour: Red / Black |
Dimensions
No. of Cores | Nominal Cross Section (mm²) | Nominal Conductor Diameter (mm) | Insulation Thickness (mm) | Outer Sheath Thickness (mm) | Nominal Overall Diameter (mm) | Nominal Weight (kg/km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 70 | 8 | 2.2 | 8 | 38.8 | 2077 |
1 | 95 | 8 | 2.3 | 8 | 40.3 | 2393 |
1 | 120 | 8 | 2.3 | 8 | 41.7 | 2692 |
1 | 150 | 8 | 2.4 | 8 | 44.7 | 3193 |
1 | 185 | 8 | 2.5 | 8 | 46.4 | 3623 |
1 | 240 | 8 | 2.6 | 8 | 49 | 4309 |
1 | 300 | 8 | 2.6 | 8 | 51.6 | 4999 |
1 | 400 | 8 | 2.7 | 8 | 54.4 | 5956 |
1 | 500 | 8 | 2.8 | 8 | 58 | 7107 |
1 | 630 | 8 | 3.0 | 8 | 63.3 | 8783 |
1 | 800 | 8 | 3.1 | 8 | 67.6 | 10766 |
3 | 70 | 8 | 3.5 | 8 | 77.6 | 9625 |
3 | 95 | 8 | 3.7 | 8 | 81 | 10827 |
3 | 120 | 8 | 3.8 | 8 | 84.4 | 12043 |
3 | 150 | 8 | 3.9 | 8 | 88.1 | 13379 |
3 | 185 | 8 | 4.0 | 8 | 91.5 | 14800 |
3 | 240 | 8 | 4.2 | 8 | 97.1 | 17324 |
3 | 300 | 8 | 4.3 | 8 | 102.7 | 19777 |
3 | 400 | 8 | 4.6 | 8 | 109.1 | 23228 |
Electrical Characteristics – Single Core Cables
Nominal Cross Section (mm²) | DC Resistance Ω/km | AC Resistance Ω/km | Capacitance µF/km | Charging Current A | Dielectric Losses W/km | Reactance Ω/km | Conductor S.C.C 1 sec kA | Current Rating Laid in Ground A | Current Rating Laid in Free Air A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
70 | 0.268 | 0.342 | 0.159 | 0.947 | 72.00 | 0.146 | 10.02 | 275 | 308 |
95 | 0.193 | 0.2465 | 0.171 | 1.022 | 77.64 | 0.141 | 13.59 | 326 | 369 |
120 | 0.153 | 0.1957 | 0.184 | 1.101 | 83.67 | 0.135 | 17.17 | 368 | 421 |
150 | 0.124 | 0.1589 | 0.199 | 1.191 | 90.51 | 0.132 | 21.46 | 406 | 470 |
185 | 0.0991 | 0.1273 | 0.213 | 1.275 | 96.88 | 0.128 | 26.47 | 440 | 528 |
240 | 0.0754 | 0.0975 | 0.236 | 1.408 | 107.03 | 0.122 | 34.34 | 496 | 608 |
300 | 0.0601 | 0.0784 | 0.258 | 1.541 | 117.11 | 0.118 | 42.93 | 545 | 679 |
400 | 0.047 | 0.0623 | 0.282 | 1.684 | 127.99 | 0.113 | 57.23 | 597 | 758 |
500 | 0.0366 | 0.0498 | 0.313 | 1.87 | 142.16 | 0.109 | 71.54 | 650 | 844 |
630 | 0.0283 | 0.0401 | 0.356 | 2.127 | 161.68 | 0.106 | 90.14 | 699 | 931 |
800 | 0.0221 | 0.0332 | 0.394 | 2.35 | 178.65 | 0.102 | 114.47 | 744 | 1013 |
Electrical Characteristics – Multi-core Cables
Nominal Cross Section (mm²) | DC Resistance Ω/km | AC Resistance Ω/km | Capacitance µF/km | Charging Current A | Dielectric Losses W/km | Reactance Ω/km | Conductor S.C.C 1 sec kA | Current Rating Laid in Ground A | Current Rating Laid in Free Air A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
70 | 0.268 | 0.3421 | 0.19 | 0.947 | 72.00 | 0.128 | 10.02 | 264 | 281 |
95 | 0.193 | 0.2466 | 0.205 | 1.022 | 77.64 | 0.123 | 13.59 | 312 | 336 |
120 | 0.153 | 0.1958 | 0.221 | 1.101 | 83.67 | 0.118 | 17.17 | 354 | 383 |
150 | 0.124 | 0.1591 | 0.239 | 1.191 | 90.51 | 0.114 | 21.46 | 395 | 432 |
185 | 0.0991 | 0.1276 | 0.256 | 1.275 | 96.88 | 0.110 | 26.47 | 443 | 489 |
240 | 0.0754 | 0.0979 | 0.283 | 1.408 | 107.03 | 0.106 | 34.34 | 507 | 567 |
300 | 0.0601 | 0.079 | 0.31 | 1.541 | 117.11 | 0.102 | 42.93 | 567 | 641 |
400 | 0.047 | 0.063 | 0.338 | 1.684 | 127.99 | 0.098 | 57.23 | 633 | 724 |
When it comes to medium voltage power transmission in demanding environments, selecting the right cable is crucial. BS 6622 XLPE/PVC armoured power cables offer a robust solution for underground installations and direct burial applications. But what exactly makes these cables stand out? How do their construction, materials, and technical specifications ensure reliable performance in Indonesia’s diverse power networks?
What Are BS 6622 XLPE/PVC Medium Voltage Armoured Cables?
BS 6622 is a British Standard defining medium voltage cables rated at 19/33 (36)kV, suitable for single-core and multi-core configurations. These armoured power cables are designed primarily for:
Underground power distribution
Installation in cable ducts
Direct burial in soil
The cable’s design ensures mechanical protection, flame retardancy, and long-term electrical reliability, making it ideal for urban, industrial, and rural applications in Indonesia, where soil conditions, humidity, and temperature variations can challenge cable performance.
Where Are BS 6622 Cables Commonly Used?
BS 6622 XLPE/PVC armoured cables are widely used in power generation and distribution networks, especially in environments requiring mechanical protection:
Underground urban networks – Installed in ducts beneath streets or highways.
Industrial complexes – Powering heavy machinery with minimal voltage drop.
Direct burial installations – Suitable for areas without cable ducts, with robust armouring protecting against soil pressure.
Infrastructure projects – Airports, ports, and railways where medium voltage distribution is needed.
Real-Life Case Study: Indonesia
In Jakarta and Surabaya, BS 6622 19/33 (36)kV cables have been deployed in underground networks to connect urban substations. The cables’ steel wire armour (SWA) allowed direct burial beneath high-traffic areas without additional ducting, while PVC sheaths provided protection against soil moisture and chemical exposure. Maintenance reports showed over 10 years of reliable operation, confirming their durability and suitability for tropical climates.
What Are the Advantages of BS 6622 XLPE/PVC Armoured Cables?
Mechanical Protection: Armour layers (AWA/SWA) prevent damage from digging, rodents, and external impact.
Thermal Performance: Insulation and conductor ratings allow safe operation up to 90°C continuously.
Fire Safety: Flame retardant per IEC/EN 60332-1-2 ensures reduced fire propagation.
Versatility: Available in single and multi-core configurations for diverse applications.
Long Lifespan: Durable materials reduce degradation under underground conditions.
How Do Single-Core and Multi-Core BS 6622 Cables Compare?
Feature | Single-Core | Multi-Core |
|---|---|---|
Armour Type | Aluminium Wire (AWA) | Steel Wire (SWA) |
Typical Use | High voltage feeders | Distribution and network loops |
Installation | Easier bending, lighter | Higher mechanical strength, more compact multi-phase layout |
Current Rating | Slightly higher per core | Slightly lower due to mutual heating |
Choosing between single-core and multi-core depends on installation type, electrical load, and space availability.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About BS 6622 XLPE/PVC Cables
Can BS 6622 Cables Be Buried Directly Without Ducting?
Yes. Thanks to the robust armour and PVC sheath, the cable is suitable for direct burial in free-draining soil. Ensure proper trench bedding and backfill for long-term protection.
What Is the Difference Between AWA and SWA Armour?
AWA (Aluminium Wire Armour): Lightweight, used in single-core cables; easier to handle.
SWA (Steel Wire Armour): Stronger, used in multi-core cables; provides superior mechanical protection.
How Do I Choose the Right Cross-Section?
The cable’s current rating, voltage drop, and installation conditions determine the cross-section. For example:
Installation | Approx. Recommended Cross-Section (mm²) |
|---|---|
Urban feeder (Laid in ground) | 185–400 |
Industrial machinery | 150–300 |
Long-distance underground | 240–800 |
Are BS 6622 Cables Flame Retardant?
Yes. They meet IEC/EN 60332-1-2 standards, reducing flame propagation in case of fire.
How Long Can These Cables Last?
With proper installation and minimal mechanical damage, BS 6622 XLPE/PVC cables can operate reliably for 20–25 years or more.
Can They Be Used in Tropical Indonesian Conditions?
Absolutely. XLPE insulation tolerates high humidity and elevated ambient temperatures, while PVC sheaths resist soil chemicals and moisture.
Why Choose BS 6622 XLPE/PVC Armoured Cables?
For Indonesian utilities and industrial projects, BS 6622 armoured cables offer a proven, durable, and safe solution for medium voltage distribution. They combine:
High mechanical strength
Excellent thermal and electrical performance
Long-term reliability in challenging underground environments
Whether for urban substations, industrial power supply, or large-scale infrastructure projects, BS 6622 cables ensure efficient energy distribution with minimal maintenance.
Looking for BS 6622 XLPE/PVC 19/33 (36)kV cables for your next project? Ensure you select certified suppliers with full compliance to BS 6622, EN 60228, and IEC 60502-2 standards. Contact us today for technical consultation, custom sizing, and installation guidance to maximize performance and safety.
