Medium Voltage Power Cables Catalogue - AEC Online

Annex A: Continuous Current Ratings
A.1 General
This annexure deals solely with the steady-state continuous current ratings of single-core and three-core cables having
extruded insulation. The tabulated current ratings provided in this catalogue have been calculated for cables having a rated
voltage of 6/10 kV and constructions as detailed in each relevant type.
These ratings can be applied to cables of similar constructions in the voltage range of 3.6/6 kV to 18/30 kV.
Some parameters such as screen cross-sectional area and over sheath thickness have an influence on the rating of large
cables. In addition, the method of screen bonding has to be taken into account in the rating of single-core cables.
The tabulated current ratings in this catalogue have been calculated using the methods set out in IEC 60287
A.2 Cable constructions
The cable constructions and dimensions for which current ratings have been tabulated in this catalogue are based on those
given in the constructional data for each cable type. The constructions and dimensions used are based on IEC 60502-2 (BS
6622 where applicable) standard and not related to specific national designs but reflect different model cables.
A.3 Temperatures
The maximum conductor temperature for which the tabulated current ratings have been calculated is 90 °C.
The reference ambient temperatures assumed are as follows:
– For cables in air: 40 °C
– For buried cables, either directly in the soil or in ducts in the ground: 30 °C
Derating factors for other ambient temperatures are given in Tables E.1 and E.2
The current ratings for cables in air do not take account of the increase, if any, due to solar or other infra-red radiation.
Where the cables are subject to such radiation, the current rating should be derived by the methods specified in IEC 60287.
A.4 Soil thermal resistivity
The tabulated current ratings in this catalogue for cables in ducts or buried directly in the ground relate to a soil thermal
resistivity of 1.5 °C.m/W. Information on the likely soil thermal resistivity in various countries is given in IEC 60287-3-1.
Derating factors for other values of thermal resistivity are given in tables E.5 to E.8.
It is assumed that the soil properties are uniform; no allowance has been made for the possibility of moisture migration,
which can lead to a region of high thermal resistivity around the cable. If partial drying-out of the soil is foreseen, the
permissible current rating should be derived by the methods specified in IEC 60287.
A.5 Methods of installation
Current ratings are tabulated in this catalogue for cables installed in the following conditions.
A.5.1 Single-core cables in air
The cables are assumed to be spaced at least 0.5 times the cable diameter De from any vertical surface and installed on
brackets or ladder racks as follows:
a . Three cables in trefoil formation touching throughout their length;
b . Three cables in horizontal flat formation touching throughout their length;
c . Three cables in horizontal flat formation with a clearance of one cable diameter.
De
0.5 x De 0.5 x De
0.5 x De
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