Medium Voltage
Cable Testing Laboratory and Certification
Medium Voltage (MV) cables are used in applications across several industries such as power distribution, rail transportation, renewable energy sources and industrial infrastructures.
MV Cable construction
A key consideration when comparing the difference between MV cable and Low voltage (LV) is the construction. MV cables are much more complex due to their need to operate at higher voltages. Factors such as the raw materials used for insulation in MV cables can vary significantly to LV products. Another critical difference between the two is that MV cables have a metallic screen whereas LV cables do not, therefore specific testing must be undertaken to ensure the performance of this component meets requirements.
Complete cable assessment
As power demands increase worldwide, impacted by developments in technology and energy sources, it is vital to perform independent tests prior to a new product entering the market, or as part of ongoing surveillance to demonstrate continued cable performance characteristics. This ensures product quality is consistent with industry standards.
Key International and British Standards include:
- IEC 60502-2
- BS 6622
- BS 7835
- BS 7870 series
- HD 620
There are also several specialist standards relating to medium voltage cables used in specific sectors including rail and oil and gas.
Access BASEC’s full testing schedule accredited by UKAS which includes the medium voltage cable testing capabilities in relation to the relevant standards.
BASEC has capability to test medium voltage ranges up to 42kV.
Critical tests for MV cables include:
- Partial Discharge test
- Bending test
- Tan Delta – in relation to voltage
- Tan Delta – in relation to temperature
- Heating Cycle test
- Impulse Voltage test
- D.C. Voltage test on over sheath
- Adherence of Screens at Short Circuit Temperature test
The Medium Voltage testing Laboratory
Launched in 2022, BASEC invested £1.2 million into a fully equipped Medium Voltage cable testing laboratory, as a significant addition to the Dubai based testing facility. The MV laboratory is DEWA approved, meaning that cable manufacturers who successfully pass BASEC type testing and Product Approval for Medium Voltage cables, will comply with DEWA’s assessment specifications.
Resources
Download the Medium Voltage Guide
