.

BRITISH STANDARD
' !'. BS 6004 : 1991

.-
Specification for

PVC-insulated cables ,.

(non~armoured) for
electric power and
lighting .

l,}r

.....~ ..

Conducteurs et cables (non-annes) isoles au Starkstromleitungen (nicht armierte) mit einer

polychlorure de vinyle (PVC) pour installations Isolierung aus PVC
- Specifications

--
 BS 6004 : 1991

JJSI - British Standards Institution

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9111-7-1. 55k-B CIL/20

 BS 6004 : 1991

Committees responsible for this

British Standard

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Cables and
Insulation Standards Policy Committee (CIL/-) to Thchnical Committee CIL/20,
upon which the following bodies were represented:

Aluminium Federation
Association of Consulting Engineers
Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Electrical Appliances
British Approvals Service for Cables
British Cable Makers' Confederation
British Plastics Federation
British Railways Board
British Steel Industry
British Thlecommunications plc
Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency)
Department of Trade and Industry (Consumer Safety Unit, CA Division)
ERA Thchnology Ltd.
Electricity Supply Industry in England and Wales
Engineering Equipment and Materials Users' Association
Institution of Electrical Engineers
London Regional Transport
The following bodies were also represented in the drafting of the standard,
through subcommittees and panels:
Association of Manufacturers Allied to the Electrical and Electronic Industry
(BEAMA Ltd.)
Association of Supervisory and Executive Engineers
British Electrical Systems Association (BEAMA Ltd.)
British Non-Ferrous Metals Federation
Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers
Electrical Contractors' Association
Electrical Installation Equipment Manufacturers' Association (BEAMA Ltd.)
Engineering Industries Association
., . GAMBICA (BEAMA Ltd.)
This British Standard, having Lighting Industry Federation Ltd.
been prepared under the
direction of the Cables and
National Association of Lift Makers
Insulation Standards Policy Portable Electric Thol Manufacturers' Association
Committee, was published under Transmission and Distribution Association (BEAMA Ltd.)
the authority of the Standards
Board and comes into effect on
29 November 1991
Amendments issued since publication
© BSI 1991
Amd. No. Date Thxt affected
First published August 1969
Second edition January 1976
Third edition May 1984
Fourth edition October 1990
Fifth edition November 1991

'{he following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference CIL/20
.\Vraft for comment 90/25381 DC

ISBN 0 580 19917 7

 BS 6004 : 1991

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword 3
Specification
1 Scope 4
2 Definitions 4
3 Voltage designation 4
4 Conductors 5
5 Insulation 5
6 Core identification 5
7 Fillers and extruded inner covering 6
8 Sheath 6
9 Marking 6
10 Construction and overall dimensions 7
11 Electrical requirements 7
12 Thst under fire conditions 8
Appendices
A Guide to the use of PVC-insulated cables 19
B Guidance on procedure for routine tests on PVC-sheathed cables of
rated voltages U0 / U up to 450/750 V 20
C Non-contamination test 21
D Electrical tests 21
E Procedure for checking the efficacy of the method of spark testing 22
Thbles
1 PVC-insulated, non-sheathed general purpose cable, 4501750 V,
single-core 8
2 PVC-insulated, non-sheathed cable for internal wiring, 300/500 V,
single-core 9
3 PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed, light cable, 300/500 V, circular twin,
., . 3-core, 4-core and 5-core 10
~1 4 PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed cable, 300/500 V, single-core, flat twin
·, i--
and 3-core 12
5 PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed cable with circuit protection conductor,
300/500 V, single-core, flat twin and 3-core 13
6 PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed cable with or without circuit protective
conductor, 300/500 V, single-core and flat twin (alternative conductor
versions) 14

1
 BS 6004 : 1991

7 Special PVC-insulated, non-sheathed cable, 450/750 V, single-core for

installation at low temperatures 15
8 PVC-insulated, non-sheathed, heat-resistant cable for internal wiring,
450/750 V, single core 16
9 PVC-insulated, non-sheathed, heat-resistant cable for internal wiring,
300/500 V, single-core 16
10 Summary of electrical tests 17
11 List of tests applicable to the various types of cable 18
12 Guide to the use of PVC-insulated cables 19
13 Spark test voltage 20
14 Insulation test voltage 20 '-'
Figures
1 Spark test check: removal of insulation 23
2 Spark test check: covering with tape 23 ~

~,

2
 BS 6004 : 1991

Foreword

This new edition of BS 6004 has been prepared under the direction of the Cables
and Insulation Standards Policy Committee, and supersedes BS 6004 : 1990
which is withdrawn.
This edition introduces technical changes but it does not reflect a full review or
revision of the standard, which will be undertaken in due course.
This standard takes into account CENELECl) Harmonization Document HD 21 S2
and includes the special PVC-insulated non-sheathed single-core cable for low
temperature installations as specified in HD 21.9 . Sl. It also takes into account
recent amendments to CENELEC HD 21 and in particular HD 21. 7 S1. The
opportunity has also been taken to delete reference to copper-clad aluminium
conductors.
Where harmonized code designations are given, the requirements are in
conformity with those of all countries which accept the basic principles of
harmonization in accordance with the requirements of CENELEC. Designs
shown as National types are not harmonized but are regarded as representing a
particular requirement in the United Kingdom which is not reflected in other
countries.
Colours for core identification as agreed within CENELEC have been included in
the appropriate tables. A guide to the use of PVC-insulated cables is given in
appendix A and guidance to manufacturers on procedures for routine testing in
appendix B. This standard and the Harmonization Document mentioned above
are generally in agreement with the technical provisions of the appropriate
recommendations issued by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) .
Differences in the text between this edition and BS 6004 : 1990 are indicated by
a vertical line in the margin. Thbles 1(b), 4(b) and 5(b) are withdrawn. The table
numbers from BS 6004 : 1990 for tables 1(a), 1(c), 4(a) and 5(a) have been
preserved.
Certification. Attention is drawn to the certification services (see inside back
cover) of the British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC) 2). These services
include licensing manufacturers to use BASEC certification trade marks as
independent assurance that cables or cords have been designed and
manufactured to appropriate British Standards. BASEC is a subscriber to an
., . agreement in CENELEC whereby cables or cords coming within Harmonized
Code Designations and manufactured under a BASEC licence can carry marks
..- acceptable to other signatory countries (CENELEC 'Common Marking') .
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity from
legal obligations.

I) European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization.

2l
Biitish Approvals Service for Cables, Silbury Court, 360 Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes,
MK9 2AF.

3
 BS 6004 : 1991

Specification

1 Scope A guide to the use of PVC-insulated cables for fixed

installation is given in appendix A Guidance to
This British Standard specifies requirements and manufacturers for routine testing is given in
dimensions for non-armoured polyvinyl chloride appendix B.
(PVC) insulated cables for fixed installation and for NOTE. The titles of the publications referred to in this standard
operation at voltages up to and including 450 V to are listed on the inside back cover.
earth and 750 V a.c. between conductors.
The types of cables included in the standard are:
(a) Table l(a), PVC-insulated, 2 Definitions
and (c). non-sheathed general
purpose cable, For the purposes of this British Standard, the
single-core 4501750 V; definitions given in BS 4727 apply together with the '' .
following.
(b) Table 2. PVC-insulated,
non-sheathed cable for 2.1 rated voltage Uo
internal wiring, The power-frequency voltage to earth for which the
single-core 300/500 V; cable is designed.
(c) Table 3. PVC-insulated,
2.2 rated voltage U
PVC-sheathed light
cable, circular twin, The power-frequency voltage between conductors
3-core, 4-core and for which the cable is designed.
5-core 300/500 V;
(d) Table 4(a). PVC-insulated,
PVC-sheathed cable, 3 Voltage designation
single-core, flat
twin and 3-core 300/500 V; The rated voltage of a cable is the reference voltage
for which the cable is designed, and which serves to
(e) Table 5(a). PVC-insulated,
define the electrical tests, and shall be expressed, in
PVC-sheathed cable
volts, by the following expression:
with circuit
protective conductor, UiU
single-core, flat twin where
and 3-core 300/500 V; U0 is the r.m.s. value between any insulated
CD Table 6. PVC-insulated, conductor and earth, i.e. metal covering of the
PVC-sheathed cable cable or the surrounding medium;
with or without U is the r.m.s. value between any two phase-
protective conductor, conductors of a multicore cable or of a system
single-core and flat of single-core cables.
twin (alternative In an alternating current system, the rated voltage
conductor versions) 300/500 V; of a cable shall be at least equal to the nominal
(g) Table 7(a) Special PVC-insulated voltage of the system for which it is intended and
and (b). non-sheathed cable, this applies both to the value U 0 and to the value U.
single-core for In a direct current system, the nominal voltage of
installation at low the system shall be nothigher than 1.5 times the
temperatures 450/750 V;
rated voltage of the cable.
(h) Table 8(a) PVC-insulated, NOTE. The operating voltage of a system may permanently
and (b). non-sheathed, heat- exceed the nominal voltage of such a system by 10 %. A cable can
resistant cable, be used at 10 % higher operating voltage than its rated voltage if
single-core for internal the latter is at least equal to the nominal voltage of the system.
wiring 4501750 V; The rated voltages recognized for the purposes of
(j) Table 9. PVC-insulated, this standard shall be 300/500 V and 450/750 V.
non-sheathed, heat-
resistant cable,
single-core for internal
wiring 300/500 V.

4
 BS 6004 : 1991
VI

.·

4 Conductors The smallest of all the values obtained shall be

taken as the minimum thickness of insulation at
4.1 The conductor shall be of annealed copper any place.
1 conductor complying with BS 6360. It shall be
permissible for the wires to be tinned except for the
types detailed in tables 4, 5 and 6. 6 Core identification
4.2 The class of conductor shall be as given in 6.1 General
tables 1 to 9, inclusive. Except for conductors with Each core shall be identified by its colour. The colour
table l(c), 7(b) and 8(b) constructions, conductors shall be either throughout the whole of the
shall be circular solid, circular stranded or insulation or on the surface of the insulation.
compacted circular standard.
6.2 Colours
The colours of the cores according to the number of
5 Insulation cores in the cable and also the sequence of these
5.1 Types of insulation colours shall be as given in tables 1 to 9, as
appropriate.
The insulation shall be PVC of one of the following
types: 6.3 Harmonized code designations
(a) type TI 1 ofBS 6746 for the cables detailed in Harmonized code designations are given in tables
tables 1 to 6 inclusive; l(a), l(c), 2, 7(a), 7(b), 8(a), 8(b) and 9 for single-core
(b) type TI 4 ofBS 6746 for the cable detailed in non-sheathed cables; these cables are harmonized
table 7; types, except where explicitly shown as national
types, and shall be permitted to bear the Common
(c) type TI 3 ofBS 6746 for cables detailed in
Marking in accordance with 9.2, provided the
tables 8 and 9.
colours comply with the following:
Compliance shall be checked by carrying out the
(a) the colours available shall include the
I appropriate tests listed in table 11. combination green/yellow and the mono-colour
5.2 Application blue;
The insulation shall be closely applied to the (b) combinations of colours other than green/
conductor. It shall be possible to remove the yellow and also the colours green or yellow
insulation without damage to the insulation itself, separately shall not be considered harmonized.
the conductor or the tin coating, if any. Single-core non-sheathed cables complying with the
Compliance shall be checked by examination and by properties given in tables l(a), l(c), 2, 7(a), 7(b), 8(a),
a manual test. 8(b) and 9 where harmonized code designations are
given, but having core colours not in accordance
5.3 Thickness
with the above requirements, are not harmonized
The mean value of the thickness of the insulation types and shall not bear the Common Marking.
shall be not less thaq the value given for each type NOTE 1. In addition to the combination green/yellow, and the
1·and cross section of cable in tables 1 to 9, as mono-colour blue, the following other mono-colours are
appropriate. However, it shall be permissible for the recognized as harmonized: black, brown, grey, orange, pink, red,
thickness at any place to be less than the value turquoise, violet and white.
specified provided that the difference does not NOTE 2. Attention is drawn to the fact that, according to the use
to which the cables are put, it may be necessary to comply with
exceed 0.1 mm +10% of the value specified. core colour requirements specified in the 'Regulations for
Compliance shall be checked using the method Electrical Installations' published by the Institution of Electrical
Engineers, any British or other standard applicable, or any
I described in 2.1.1 ofBS 6469 : 1990. appropriate regulations or statutory requirements.
From each core to be tested, one sample of core shall
be taken from each of three places separated by at 6.4 Bi-colour combination
least 1m. On the core marked with the hi-colour combination
The mean of all the values obtained on the three green/yellow, the distribution of these colours shall
pieces of insulation shall be calculated to two be such that for every 15 mm length of core, one of
decimal places and then rounded to one decimal these colours shall cover at least 30% and not more
place to obtain the mean value of insulation than 70% of the surface of the core, while the other
thickness. If the calculation gives 5 or more for the colour covers the remainder of the surface.
second decimal figure, the first figure shall be raised NOTE 1. In case of dispute and where appropriate to the method
to the next number: thus, for example, 1. 75 shall be of colour marking of the insulation, see 2.7 ofBS 6469: 1990 for a
test method to check compliance.
rounded to 1.8 and 1. 74 to 1. 7.

5
 BS 6004: 1991

·-

NOTE 2. Information on the use of the colours green/yellow and 8.2 Application
blue. It is understood that the colours green and yellow when
they are combined as specified above are recognized exclusively The sheath shall be applied in a homogeneous layer:
as a means of identification of the core intended for use at earth (a) to the core, in the single-core cables;
connection or similar protection, and that the colour blue is
intended for the identification of the core intended to be (b) to the assembly of cores and inner covering
connected to neutral. If, however, there is no neutral, blue can be (if any) in other cables.
used to identify any core except for earthing or protective
conductor. The sheath shall be capable of being removed
without damage to the cores.
6.5 Clarity and durability
NOTE. A separator consisting of a tape or film may be placed
The colours shall be clearly identifiable and durable. under the sheath.
Compliance shall be checked by trying to remove the 8.3 Thickness ·· ii ·
colours of the cores by rubbing the core 10 times
with a piece of cotton wool or cloth soaked in water. The mean value of the sheath thickness shall be not
less than the value given for each type and cross
section of cable in tables 3 to 6, as appropriate.
7 Fillers and extruded inner covering However, it shall be permissible for the thickness at
7.1 Fillers any place to be less than the value specified,
provided that the difference does not exceed
When separate fillers are used they shall be
0.1 mm + 15% ofthe value specified.
composed of one of the following (a) and (b) or a
combination of the two: Where the sheath fills the interstices between the
cores of flat cables the specified thickness shall
(a) an extruded compound based on unvulcanized apply at the place where the thickness of the sheath
rubber or plastics;
is at its minimum.
(b) natural or synthetic textile fibres. Compliance shall be checked using the method
A centre filler shall not be used in multicore cables described in 2.1.2 ofBS 6469: 1990.
unless specifically permitted in tables 3 to 6, as
One sample of cable shall be taken from each of
appropriate.
three places, separated by at least 1 m.
7.2 Extruded inner covering The mean of all the values obtained on the three
7.2.1 An inner covering shall consist of an extruded pieces of sheath shall be calculated to two decimal
compound based on unvulcanized rubber or plastic. places and rounded to one decimal place as
described in 5.3 to obtain the mean value of sheath
7.2.2 Inner coverings composed ofunvulcanized thickness.
rubber shall be compatible with PVC cores. The smallest of all the values obtained shall be
Compliance shall be checked using the non- taken as the minimum thickness of sheath at any
contamination test given in appendix C and place.
compatibility confirmed if the median values after
ageing comply with the following. 8.4 Colour
Compatibility ofTI 1 insulation The colour of the sheath is specified only for cables
(a) Tensile strength whose properties are given in tables 4 to 6; for these
cables the colour of the sheath shall be as given in
Minimum value (N/mm 2 ) 12.5 the appropriate table. The colour shall be
Maximum variation(%) 20 throughout the whole ofthe sheath or on its surface.
(b) Elongation at break
Minimum value(%) 125 9 Marking
Maximum variation(%) 20
NOTE. Variation is the difference between the median value
9.1 Indication of origin
after ageing and the median value without ageing, expressed as a All cables shall be provided with an indication of
percentage of the latter. origin consisting either of an identification thread or
8 Sheath threads or the continuous marking of the
manufacturer's name or trade mark.
8.1 Type of sheath
If coloured threads are used, the colours shall
The sheath shall be PVC complying with BS 6746 comply with those registered in PD 2379, where
I for type 6 or type TM 1, as given in tables 3 to 6, as applicable. The colours shall be easy to recognize or
appropriate. shall become recognizable by cleaning with petrol,
Compliance shall be checked by carrying out the or othe:Z. suitable solvent, if necessary.
I appropriate tests given in table 11.

6
 BS 6004: 1991

.•

The marking of the manufacturer's name or trade 9.5 Cables with type TI 3 insulation
mark, if used, shall be by one of the three following In addition to the requirements of9.1, cables given
alternative methods: in tables 8(a), 8(b), and 9 shall have a continuous
(a) printed tape within the cable; marking applied, using the symbol 'V2' (indicating
(b) printing, indenting or embossing on the heat-resistant insulation), by printing, indenting or
insulation of at least one core, (the core coloured embossing on the insulation.
blue, if any);
(c) printing, indenting or embossing on the 10 Construction and overall
sheath, if any. dimensions
The marking shall be legible and shall be regarded
10.1 Construction
as continuous if the gap between the end of one
complete inscription and the beginning of the next The construction of the cables shall be as given in
does not exceed: tables 1 to 9, as appropriate.
(1) 500 mm if the marking is on the sheath; Compliance shall be checked by examination and
measurement.
(2) 200 mm in all other cases.
10.2 Mean overall dimensions
9.2 CENELEC 'Common Marking'
The mean overall dimensions of the cables shall be
It shall be permitted for a cable for which a
within the limits given in tables 1 to 9, as
Harmonized Code Designation is given in tables 1 to
appropriate.
I 9 to carry an indication that it has been
manufactured under a licence issued by one of the Compliance shall be checked using the method
Approvals Organizations subscribing to the described in 2.1.3 ofBS 6469 : 1990.
CENELEC Agreement on the use of a commonly One sample of cable shall be taken from each of
agreed marking for cables and cords. If it does carry three places, separated by at least 1m.
such an indication this shall be one of the following. For flat cable the mean of the three determinations
(a) The mark of the Approvals Organization, of each of the major and minor axes shall be taken
followed by the Common Marking <J HAR !> as the mean overall dimensions.
applied by one of the three alternative methods For other cable, the mean ofthe six values obtained
specified in 9.1 . shall be taken as the mean overall diameter.
(b) An identification thread extending throughout
the length of the cable indicating the Approvals 10.3 Ovality
Organization. The base colour shall be yellow and The difference between any two values of the overall
this shall be serially dyed or printed red and diameter of circular sheathed cables at the same
black. The lengths of the coloured sections shall cross section (ovality) shall not exceed 15 % of the
comply with dimensions laid down by CENELEC upper limit given in tables 1 to 9, as appropriate, for
. for that Approvals Organization (see PD 2379). the mean overall diameter.
Neither of these indications shall be used for a cable Compliance shall be checked using the method
I shown in tables 1 to 9 as a national type. described in 2.1.3 ofBS 6469: 1990.
The name CENELEC, in full or abbreviated, shall One sample of cable shall be taken from each of
not be directly marked on, or in, the cable. three places, separated by at least 1 m.
Two measurements shall be taken at the same cross
/ 9.3 Durability section of the cable covering the maximum and
Any marking by printing shall be durable. minimum values.
Compliance shall be checked by rubbing the
marking 10 times with a piece of cotton wool or cloth 11 Electrical requirements
soaked in water.
11.1 Conductorresistance
I 9.4 Cables for installation at low temperature
The d. c. resistance of each conductor measured on a
In addition to the requirements of9.1, cables given sample of cable at least 1m in length shall comply
in tables 7(a) and 7(b) shall have a continuous with BS 6360.
marking applied, using the symbol 'V3' (indicating
suitability for installation at low temperature), by 11.2 Voltage test on complete cable
printing, indenting or embossing on the insulation. When the cable is tested as described in D.1 and D.2
no breakdown of insulation shall occur.

7
 BS 6004 : 1991

11.3 Voltage test on cores Table 1. PVC-insulated, non-sheathed

When the core is tested as described in D.l and D.3 general purpose cable, 4501750 V, single-core
no breakdown of the insulation shall occur.
(a) Rigid conductor
11.4 Insulation resistance
NOTE 1. The cables may be suitable for voltages up to
When the cable is tested as described in D.1 1000 Va.c. or up to 750 Vto earth d.c. (see appendix A).
and D.4, the resistance shall be not less than the NOTE 2. Cables having conductor sizes smaller than 1.5 mm 2
minimum value specified in tables 1 to 9, as are to be found in table 2.
appropriate. Harmonized code designation
11.5 Long term resistance of insulation to d.c. Solid conductor: H07V- U.
Stranded conductor: H07V-R." ..
When the cable is tested as described in D.1
and D.5, the exterior of the insulation shall show no Construction
damage. Annealed copper conductor, class 1 solid conductor
NOTE. Discolouration of the insulation should be ignored. and class 2 stranded conductor, as shown below.
11.6 Test to check the absence offaults on PVC-insulation type TI 1.
insulation Colours for core identification. Green/yellow,
When the cable is tested as described in D.1 blue or other colours (see 6.3).
and D.6, it shall withstand the applied voltage Nominal Class of Radial Mean Minimum
without failure of the insulation. cross- conductor thickness overall insulation
sectional of diameter resistance
area of insulation (upper at 70 oc
conduc· limit)
tor
12 Test under fire conditions
mm 2 mm mm M.Q·km
The cables whose properties are given in tables 1 to
/ 9 shall comply with BS 4066 : Part 1. 1.5 1 0.7 3.3 0.011
The test shall be carried out on a sample ofthe 1.5 2 0.7 3.5 0.010
complete cable. 2.5 1 0.8 3.9 0.010
2.5 2 0.8 4.2 0.009
4 1 0.8 4.4 0.0085
4 2 0.8 4.8 0.0077
6 1 0.8 4.9 0.0070 ..
6 2 0.8 5.4 0.0065
10 1 1.0 6.4 0.0070
10 2 1.0 6.8 0.0065
16 2 1.0 8.0 0.0050
25 2 1.2 9.8 0.0050
35 2 1.2 11.0 0.0040
50 2 1.4 13.0 0.0045
70 2 1.4 15.0 0.0035
95 2 1.6 17.0 0.0035
120 2 1.6 19.0 0.0032
150 2 1.8 21.0 0.0032
185 2 2.0 23.5 0.0032
240 2 2.2 26.5 0.0032
300 2 2.4 29.5 0.0030
400 2 2.6 33.5 0.0028
5001) 2 2.8 37.0 0.0028
630 1) 2 2.8 41.0 0.0025
Il Nationai type.

8
 BS 6004:1991

-·

Table 1. PVC-insulated, non-sheathed Table 2. PVC-insulated, non-sheathed cable

general purpose cable, 450/750 V, single-core for internal wiring, 300/500 V, single-core
(concluded)
NOTE. Flexible conductor versions of the following three sizes
(c) Flexible copper conductor of internal wiring cables are specified in BS 6500.

NOTE 1. The cables may be suitable for voltages up to Harmonized code designation. H05V- U.
1000 V a .c. or u p to 750 V to earth d.c. (see appendix A).
Construction
NOTE 2. Flexible cables smaller than 1.5 mm2 are to be found
in BS6500. Annealed copper conductor, class 1 solid
Harmonized code designation. H07V- K. conductor.
Construction PVC-insulation type T11.
Annealed copper conductor, class 5 flexible Colours for core identification. Green/yellow,
conductor. blue or other colours (see 6.3 for harmonized
PVC-insulation type TI 1. types).
Colours for core identification. Green/yellow, Nominal Radial Mean Minimum
cross- thickness overall insulation
blue or other colours (see 6.3). diameter resistance
sectional of
Nominal Radial Mean Minimum area of insulation (upper at 70 oc
cross- thickness overall insulation conductor limit)
sectional of diameter resistance
area of insulation (upper at 70 oc mm 2 mm mm MQ·km
conductor limit) 0.6 2.4 0.015
0.5
mm 2 mm mm MQ·km 0.75 0.6 2.6 0.012
1.5 0.7 3.5 0.010 1 0.6 2.8 0.011
2.5 0.8 4.2 0.009
4 0.8 4.8 0.007
6 0.8 6.4 0.006
10 1.0 7.6 0.0056
16 1.0 8.8 0.0046
25 1.2 11.0 0.0044
35 1.2 12.5 0.0038
50 1.4 14.5 0.0037
70 1.4 17.0 0.0032
95 1.6 19.0 0.0032
'- 120 1.6 ~
21.0 0.0029
150 1.8 23.5 0.0029
185 2.0 26.0 0.0029
240 2.2 29.5 0.0028

Q
 BS 6004: 1991
' .

Table 3. PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed, light cable, 300/500 V, circular twin, 3-core, 4-core
and 5-core
Code designation
NOTE 1. This type of cable is included in CENELEC Harmonization Document HD 21 82, but owing to lack of agreement on a
colour-code for rigid multi core cables, this cable type cannot be considered as harmonized, and no designation has been allocated.
Construction
Annealed copper conductor, class 1 solid conductor and class 2 stranded conductor as shown in the table.
PVC-insulation type TI 1.
The cores shall be twisted together. A centre filler may be used. . ?:.

The twisted cores shall be covered by an extruded inner covering. It shall be possible to separate the
cores easily.
PVC sheath type TM 1.
The sheath shall fit closely but not adhere to the inner covering.
NOTE 2. The thickness of the inner covering given for guidance is not measured.
Colours for core identification (see note 1 above).
Twin: red and black.
3-core: red, yellow and blue.
4-core: red, yellow, blue and black.
5-core: red, yellow, blue black and green/yellow.
Colour of sheath. Not specified.
Number and Class of Radial Thickness Radial Mean overall Minimum
nominal conductor thickness of inner thickness diameter insulation
cross- of covering of sheath resistance
sectional insulation Lower Upper at 70 oc
area of limit limit
conductors
mm 2 mm mm mm mm mm MQ·km
2x 1.5 1 0.7 0.4 1.2 8.4 10.0 0.011

2x 2.5
2
1
0.7
0.8
0.4
0.4
1.2
1.2
8.4
9.6
10.5
11.5
0.010
0.010
..
2 0.8 0.4 1.2 9.6 12.0 0.009
2x 4 1 0.8 0.4 1.2 10.5 12.5 0.0085
2 0.8 0.4 1.2 10.5 13.0 0.0077
2x 6 1 0.8 0.4 1.2 11.5 13.5 0.0070
2 0.8 0.4 1.2 11.5 14.0 0.0065
2x 10 1 1.0 0.6 1.4 14.5 16.5 0.0070
2 1.0 0.6 1.4 15.0 17.5 0.0065
2x 16 2 1.0 0.6 1.4 16.5 20.0 0.0052
2 X 25 2 1.2 0.8 1.4 20.5 24.0 0.0050
2x35 2 1.2 1.0 1.6 23.0 27.5 0.0044
3x 1.5 1 0.7 0.4 1.2 8.8 10.5 0.011
2 0.7 0.4 1.2 8.8 11.0 0.010
3x 2.5 1 0.8 0.4 1.2 10.0 12.0 0.010
2 0.8 0.4 1.2 10.0 12.5 0.009
3x 4 1 0.8 0.4 1.2 11.0 13.0 0.0085
2 0.8 0.4 1.2 '
11.0 13.5 0.0077
3x 6 1 0.8 0.4 1.4 12.5 14.5 0.0070
2 O.f> 0.4 1.4 12.5 15.5 0.0065
--
10
 BS 6004 : 1991

Table 3. PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed, light cable, 300/500 V, circular twin, 3-core, 4-core
and 5-core (concluded)
Number and Class of Radial Thickness Radial Mean overall Minimum
nominal conductor thickness of inner thickness diameter insulation
cross- of covering of sheath resistance
sectional insulation Lower Upper at 70 °C
area of limit limit
conductors

mm2 mm mm mm mm mm MQ·km

3 X 10 1 1.0 0.6 1.4 15.5 17.5 0.0070

2 1.0 0.6 1.4 15.5 19.0 0.0065
3x 16 2 1.0 0.8 1.4 18.0 21.5 0.0052
3x25 2 1.2 0.8 1.6 22.0 26.0 0.0050
3x35 2 1.2 1.0 1.6 24.5 29.0 0.0044

4x 1.5 1 0.7 0.4 1.2 9.6 11.5 0.011

2 0.7 0.4 1.2 9.6 12.0 0.010
4x 2.5 1 0.8 0.4 1.2 11.0 13.0 0.010
2 0.8 0.4 1.2 11.0 13.5 0.009
4x 4 1 0.8 0.4 1.4 12.0 14.5 0.0085
2 0.8 0.4 1.4 12.5 15.0 0.0077
4x 6 1 0.8 0.6 1.4 14.0 16.0 0.0070
2 0.8 0.6 1.4 14.0 17.0 0.0065

4x 10 1 1.0 0.6 1.4 16.5 19.0 0.0070

2 1.0 0.6 1.4 17.0 20.5 0.0065
4x 16 2 1.0 0.8 1.4 20.0 23.5 0.0052
4x25 2 1.2 1.0 1.6 24.5 28.5 0.0050
4x35 2 1.2 1.0 1.6 27.0 32.0 0.0044

5x 1.5 1 0.7 0.4 1.2 10.0 12.0 0.011

2 0.7 0.4 1.2 10.0 12.5 0.010
5x 2.5 1 0.8 0.4 1.2 11.5 14.0 0.010
·I~.
2 .. 0.8 0.4 1.2 12.0 14.5 0.009
5x 4 1 0.8 0.6 1.4 13.5 16.0 0.0085
2 0.8 0.6 1.4 14.0 17.0 0.0077
5x 6 1 0.8 0.6 1.4 15.0 17.5 0.0070
2 0.8 0.6 1.4 15.5 18.5 0.0065

5 X 10 1 1.0 0.6 1.4 18.0 21.0 0.0070

2 1.0 0.6 1.4 18.5 22.0 0.0065
5x 16 2 1.0 0.8 1.6 22.0 26.0 0.0052
5x25 2 1.2 1.0 1.6 27.0 31.5 0.0050
5x35 2 1.2 1.2 1.6 30.0 35.0 0.0044

11
 BS 6004 : 1991

Table 4. PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed cable, 300/500 V, single-core, flat twin and 3-core
(a) Copper conductor
National type
Construction
Plain annealed copper conductor. Class 1 solid conductor and class 2 stranded conductor, as shown
below.
PVC-insulation type TI 1.
In twin and 3-core cables, the cores shall be laid parallel.
PVC sheath type 6.
The sheath shall fit closely but not adhere to the core(s).
Colours for core identification
Single: red or black.
Twin: red and black, or, for 2 x 1 and 2 x 1.5 cables, red and red.
3-core: red, yellow (centre core) and blue.
Colour of sheath
Single-core: black, brown, grey, red or white.
Flat twin and 3-core: grey or white.
Number and Class of Radial Radial Mean overall diameter · Minimum
nominal conductor thickness thickness insulation
cross- of of sheath Lower Upper resistance
sectional insulation limit limit at 70 oc
area of
conductors

mm mm mm mm M.Q·km
1 x 1.0 1 0.6 0.8 3.8 4.5 0.011
1x 1.5 1 0.7 0.8 4.2 4.9 0.011
1 X 2.5 1 0.8 0.8 4.8 5.8 0.010
1X 4 2 0.8 0.9 5.4 6.8 0.0077
1X 6 2 0.8 0.9 6.0 7.4 0.0065 : .
1 X 10 2 1.0 0.9 7.2 8.8 0.0065
1 X 16 2 1.0 1.0 8.4 10.5 0.0052
1 x 25 2 1.2 1.1 10.0 12.5 0.0050
1 X 35 2 1.2 1.1 11.0 13.5 0.0044
2x 1.0 1 0.6 0.9 4.0x 6.2 4.7 X 7.4 0.011
2x 1.5 1 0.7 0.9 4.4 X 7.0 5.4 X 8.4 0.011
2X 2.5 1 0.8 1.0 5.2 X 8.4 6.2x 9.8 0.010
2x 4 2 0.8 1.0 5.6 X 9.6 7.2 X 11.5 0.008
2X 6 2 0.8 1.1 6.4 X 10.5 8.0 X 13.0 0.0065
2 X 10 2 1.0 1.2 7.8 X 13.0 9.6 X 16.0 0.0065
2 X 16 2 1.0 1.3 9.0x 15.5 11.0 X 18.5 0.0052
3x 1.0 1 0.6 0.9 4.0 X 8.4 4.7 X 9.8 0.011
3x 1.5 1 0.7 0.9 4.4 X 9.8 5.4 X 11.5 0.011
3 X 2.5 1 0.8 1.0 5.2 X 11.5 6.2 X 13.5 0.010
3X 4 2 0.8 1.1 5.8 X 13.5 7.4 X 16.5 0.008
3X 6 2 0.8 1.1 6.4 X 15.0 8.0 X 18.0 0.0065
3 X 10 2 1.0 1.2 7.8 X 19.0 9.6 X 22.5 0.0065
3 X 16 2 1.0 1.3 9.0 X 22.0 11.0 X 26.5 0.0052
NOTE. When required by the purchaser, alternative conductor versions of certain sizes may be available in the form given
in table 6.

J2
 ,~--·-- --~-- -- -

I b.. l CJ 1-( ··r H .E: I A BS 6004 : 1991

Table 5. PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed cable with circuit protective conductor, 300/500 V,

single-core, flat twin and 3-core
(a) Copper conductor
National type
Construction
Plain annealed copper conductor. Class 1 solid conductor and class 2 stranded conductor, as shown below.
PVC-insulation type TI 1.
The core or cores shall be laid parallel with the uninsulated circuit protective conductor.
PVC sheath type 6.
The sheath shall fit closely but not adhere to the cores.
Colours for core identification
! Single-core: red or black.
Twin: red and black, or, for 2 x 1 and 2 x 1.5 cables, red and red.
3-core: red, yellow (centre core) and blue.
Position of circuit protective conductor
Twin: centrally placed between cores in same plane.
3-core: centrally placed between yellow and blue cores in same plane.
Colour of sheath. Grey or white.
Number and Class of Radial Radial Mean overall diameter Circuit Minimum
nominal conductor thickness thickness protective insulation
cross~ (see 4.2) of of sheath Lower Upper conductor resistance
sectional insulation limit limit minimum at 70 oc
area of nom. cross-
conductors sectional
area

mm 2 mm mm mm mm mm 2 MQ·km
1 x 1.0 1 0.6 0.9 4.0 x 5.1 5.2 x 6.4 1.0 0.011
1 x 1.5 1 0.7 0.9 4.4 x 5.4 5.8 x 7.0 1.0 0.011
-- 2 x 1.0 0.9 4.0x 7.2 4.7 x 8.6 1.0 0.011
1 0.6
2 x 1.5 1 0.7 0.9 4.4 x 8.2 5.4 X 9.6 1.0 0.011
2 x 2.5 1 0.8 1.0 5.2 x 9.8 6.2 X 11.5 1.5 0.010
2x 4 2 ~
0.8 1.0 5.6 X 10.5 7.2 X 13.0 1.5 0.008
2x 6 2 0.8 1.1 6.4 X 12.5 8.0 x 15.0 2.5 0.0065
2 X 10 2 1.0 1.2 7.8 X 15.5 9.6 X 19.0 41) 0.0065
2 X 16 2 1.0 1.3 9.0 X 18.0 11.0x 22.5 61) 0.0052
3 x 1.0 1 0.6 0.9 4.0 x 9.6 4.7 x 11.0 1.0 0.011
3 x 1.5 1 0.7 0.9 4.4 X 10.5 5.4 X 12.5 1.0 0.011
3x 2.5 1 0.8 1.0 5.2 X 12.5 6.2 X 14.5 1.0 0.010
3x 4 2 0.8 1.1 5.8 X 14.5 7.4 X 18.0 1.5 0.008
3x 6 2 0.8 1.1 6.4 X 16.5 8.0 X 20.0 2.5 0.0065
3 X 10 2 1.0 1.2 7.8 X 21.0 9.6 X 25.5 41) 0.0065
3 X 16 2 1.0 1.3 9.0 X 24.5 11.0 X 29.5 61) 0.0052
ll Class 2 conductors only.
NOTE. When required by the purchaser, alternative conductor versions of certain sizes may be available in the form given
in table 6.

13
 BS 6004: 1991

Table 6. PVC-insulated, PVC-sheathed cable with or without circuit protective conductor,

300/500 V, single-core and flat twin (alternative conductor versions)
NOTE. This table gives alternative conductor (class 2) versions of certain sizes of the cables given in tables 4(a) and 5(a).
National type
The requirements for construction, PVC sheath, colours for core identification, position of circuit
protective conductor (if relevant) and colour of sheath shall be as given in tables 4(a) and 5(a), as
appropriate.
Number and Class of Radial Radial Mean overall diameter Circuit Minimum
nominal conductor thickness thickness protective insulation
cross- (see 4.2) of of sheath Lower Upper conductor resistance
sectional insulation limit limit minimum at 70 oc '
area of nom. cross-
conductors sectional
area

mm 2 mm mm mm mm mm 2 M.Q·km
Flat twin without circuit protective conductor
2 X 1.5 2 0.7 0.9 4.5x 7.2 5.6x 8.8 - 0.011
2x2.5 2 0.8 1.0 5.2x8.6 6.6 X 10.5 - 0.010
Flat twin with circuit protective conductor
1 X 1.5 2 0.7 0.9 4.4 X 5.4 5.8x 7.0 1.01) 0.011
2 X 1.5 2 0.7 0.9 4.5 X 8.4 5.6 X 10.0 l.Ol) 0.011
2 X 2.5 2 0.8 1.0 5.2 X 9.8 6.6 X 12.0 1.51) 0.010
Il The circuit protective conductor remains as given in table 5(a), namely class 1.

14
 BS 6004:1991

Table 7. Special PVC-insulated, non-sheathed Table 7. Special PVC-insulated, non-sheathed

cable, 450/750 V, single-core for installation cable, 450/750 V, single-core for installation
at low temperatures at low temperatures (concluded)
(a) Rigid conductor (b) Flexible copper conductor
NOTE. The cables may be suitable for voltages up to 1000 V a.c. NOTE. The cables may be suit able for voltages up to 1000 V a.c.
or up to 750 V to earth d.c. (see appendix A). or up to 750 V to earth d.c. (see appendix A).
Harmonized code designation Harmonized code designation. H07V3- K.
Solid condu ctor: H07V3- U. Construction
Stranded conductor: H07V3-R. Annealed copper conductor, class 5 flexible
Construction conductor.
Annealed copper conductor, class 1 solid con ductor PVC-insulation type TI 4.
and class 2 stranded conductor, as shown below. Colours for core identification. Green/yellow,
PVC-insulation type TI 4. blue or other colours (see 6.3).
Colours for core identification. Green/yellow, Nominal Radial Mean Minimum
blue or other colours (see 6.3). cross- thickness overall insulation
sectional of diameter resistance
Nominal Class of Radial Mean Minimum area of insulation (upper at 70 oc
cross- conductor thickness overall insulation conductor limit)
sectional of diameter resista nce
area of insulation (upper at70 °C mm 2 mm mm M.Q·km
conduc- limit)
tor 1.5 0.7 3.5 0.010
2.5 0.8 4.2 0.009
mm 2 mm mm M.Q·km
4 0.8 4.8 0.007
1.5 1 0.7 3.3 0.011
6 0.8 6.4 0.006
1.5 2 0.7 3.5 0.010
10 1.0 7.6 0.0056
2.5 1 0.8 3.9 0.010
16 1.0 8.8 0.0046
2.5 2 0.8 4.2 0.009
25 1.2 11.0 0.0044
4 1 0.8 4.4 0. 0085
35 1.2 12.5 0.0038
4 2 0.8 4.8 0.0077
50 1.4 14.5 0.0037
6 1 0.8 4 .9 0.0070
70 1.4 17.0 0.0032
6 2 0.8 5.4 0.0065
95 1.6 19.0 0.0032
10 1 1.0 6.4 0.0070
120 1.6 21.0 0.0029
10 2 1.0 6.8 0.0065
150 1.8 23.5 0.0029
-' -·-
16 2 1.0 8.0 0.0050 185 2.0 26.0 0.0029
25 2 1.2 9.8 0.0050 240 2.2 29.5 0.0028
35 2 1.2 11.0 0.0040
50 2 1.4 13.0 0.0045
70 2 1.4 15.0 0.0035
95 2 1.6 17.0 0.0035
120 2 1.6 19.0 0.0032
150 2 1.8 21.0 0.0032
185 2 2.0 23 .5 0.0032
240 2 2.2 26.5 0.0032
300 2 2.4 29.5 0.0030
400 2 2.6 33.5 0.0028

15
 BS 6004 : 1991

Table 8. PVC-insulated, non-sheathed, heat- Table 9. PVC-insulated, non-sheathed, heat-

resistant cable for internal wiring, 450/750 V, resistant cable for internal wiring, 300/500 V,
single-core single-core
(a) Rigid conductor NOTE. Flexible conductor versions of the following three
sizes of internal wiring cables are specified in BS 6500.
NOTE. Cables having conductor sizes smaller than 1.5 mm 2 are
to be found in table 9.
Harmonized code designation. H05V2- U.
Harmonized code designation. H07V2- U. Construction
Construction Annealed copper conductor, class 1 solid
conductor.
Annealed copper co_n ductor, class 1 solid
PVC-insulation type TI 3.
. ".:
conductor.
PVC-insulation type TI 3. Colours for core identification. Green/yellow,
blue or other colours (see 6.3).
Colours for core identification. Green/yellow,
blue or other colours (see 6.3). Nominal Radial Mean Minimum
cross- thickness overall insulation
Nominal Radial Mean Minimum sectional of diameter resistance
cross· thickness overall insulation area of insulation (upper at 90 oc
sectional of diameter resistance conductor limit)
area of insulation (upper at 90°C
conductor limit) mm 2 mm mm M.Q·km
mm 2 mm mm M.Q·km 0.5 0.6 2.4 0.015
1.5 0.7 3.3 0.011 0.75 0.6 2.6 0.012
2.5 0.8 3.9 0.010 1 0.6 2.8 0.011

(b) Flexible conductor

NOTE. Flexible cables smaller than 1.5 mm 2 are to be found
inBS6500.
Harmonized code designation. H07V2-K.
Construction
Annealed copper conductor, class 5 flexible
conductor.
PVC-insulation type TI 3.
Colours for core identification. Green/yellow,
blue or other colours (see 6.3).
Nominal Radial Mean Minimum :: -
cross- thickness overall insulation
sectional of diameter resistance
area of insulation (upper at 90°C
conductor limit)

mm 2 mm mm M.Q·km
1.5 0.7 3.5 0.010
2.5 0.8 4.2 0.009

16
 BS 6004 : 1991

Table 10. Summary of electrical tests

Test method Unit 300/500V 450/750V

cables cables

Conductor resistance (see 11.1)

Length of sample (min.) m 1 1

Voltage test on complete cable (see 11.2)

Length of sample (min.) m 20 20
Period of immersion (min.) h 1 1
Temperature of water oc 20±5 20±5
Applied voltage (a.c.) v 2000 2500
Time of application min 15 15

Voltage test on cores (see 11.3)

Length of sample m 5 -
Period of immersion (min.) h 1 -
Temperature of water oc 20±5 -
Applied voltage (a.c.)
for insulation thickness exceeding 0.6 mm v 2000 -
for insulation thickness up to and including 0.6 mm v 1500 -
Time of application min 5 -

Insulation resistance (see 11.4)

Length of sample m 5 5
Period of immersion (min.) h 2 2
Temperature of water (tables 1 to 7)
I
oc 70±2 70±2
Temperature of water (tables 8 and 9) oc 90±2 90±2

Long term resistance of insulation to d. c. (see 11.5)

Length of sample m 5 5
Period of immersion day 10 10
Temperature of solution oc 60±5 60±5
Duration of applied voltage day 10 10
,, Result to be obtained No breakdown No breakdown

Check on the absence of faults on insulation (see 11.6)

Spark test
Result to be obtained No failure No failure
Voltage test
Applied voltage a.c. v 2000 2500
Applied voltage d.c. (min.) v 5000 5000
Duration of test min 5 5
Result to be obtained No breakdown No breakdown

17
 BS 6004: 1991
- ..

Table 11. List of tests applicable to the various types of cable

Clause Test description Table number
number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Electrical tests
lLl Conductor resistance X X X X X X X X X
11.2 Voltage test on complete cable at 2000 V - X X X X X - - X
11.2 Voltage test on complete cable at 2500 V X - - - - - X X -
11.3 Voltage test on cores at 2000 V1> - - X X X X - - -
11.3 Voltage test on cores at 1500 V2> - - X X X .X - - -
11.4 Insulation resistance at 70 oc X X X X X X X xs> XB):
11.5 Long term resistance to d.c. X X X X X X X X X
11.6 Check on absence offaults on insulation X X X X X X X X X

Constructional and dimensional tests

10.1 Check on construction X X X X X X X X X
5.3 Measurement of insulation thickness X X X X X X X X X
8.3 Measurement of sheath thickness - - X X X X - - -
10.2 Measurement of overall dimensions X X X X X X X X X
10.3 Measurement of ovality - - X - - - - - -

5.1 Properties of insulation

Tensile strength before and after ageing X X X X X X X X X
Elongation at break before and after ageing X X X X X X X X X
Loss of mass test X X X X X X X X X
Non-contamination test - - X3> - - - - - -
Hot pressure test X X X X X X X X X
Cold bend test X X X X X X X X X
Cold elongation test X4l - - - - - X4> - -
Cold impact test xs> - - - - - X7> - -
Heat shock test X X X X X X X X X
Thermal stability test - - - - - - - X X

8.1 Properties of sheath

Tensile strength without ageing - - X X X X - - -
Elongation at break without ageing - - X X X X - - -
Tensile strength after ageing in air - - X - - - - - -
Elongation at break after ageing in air - - X - - - - - -
Loss of mass test - - X X X X - - -
Hot pressure test or hot deformation test - - X X X X - - -
Cold bend test - - X X X X - - -
Cold elongation test - - X4> - - - - - -
Cold impact test - - XB> - - - - - -
Heat shock test - - X X X X - - -

12 Test under fire conditions X X X X X X X X X

NOTE. X indicates that the particular test is applicable to the cables in the table shown at the head of each column.
I l For insulation thickness exceeding 0.6 mm.
2>For insulation thickness up to and including 0.6 mm.
3>Only applicable if the insulation is in contact with a compound other than PVC (see 7.2).
4>Only applicable ifthe outer diameter of the core or cable exceeds the limit specified in the test method.
6>Table l(a) cables only.
6> Only applicable if the outer diameter of the cable exceeds the limit specified in the test method.
7>Table 7(a) cables only.
8> Test at 90 °C.

10
 BS 6004 : 1991

..
Appendices

Appendix A. Guide to the use of PVC- maximum conductor temperature does not exceed
insulated cables 160 oc, up to and including 300 mm 2 and 140 °C for
sizes above 300 mm 2 •
NOTE 1. None of these types is intended to be laid underground. NOTE 2. The short-circuit temperature is based on the intrinsic
IMPORTANT. Details given in this appendix are properties of the insulating material. It is essential that the
accessories which are used in the cable system with mechanical
intended only as general technical guidance and not and/or soldered connections are suitable for the temperature
as an interpretation of any UK statutory adopted for the cable. Further guidance on short-circuit
requirements, where these apply. temperature is being considered in CENELEC for heat-resistant
types in tables 8 and 9.
The cables are suitable for use where the
NOTE 3. Installation requirements and current ratings are
combination of ambient temperature and detailed in the Regulations for Electrical Installations, published
temperature rise due to load results in a conductor by the Institution of Electrical Engineers, or in individual
temperature not exceeding 70 °C (90 oc for heat- appliance specifications.
I resistant types in tables 8 and 9) and in the case of a
short-circuit (maximum allowable time 5 s) the
Typical uses of the different types of cable are given
in table 12.

I Table 12. Guide to the use of PVC-insulated cables

Table Cable type and use Comments

1(a) and 1(c) Single-core, non-sheathed general purpose

Installation in surface mounted or Suitable for use in channels with cover.
embedded conduits, or similar closed Suitable for fixed protected installation
systems. in or on lighting fittings and inside
appliances, switchgear and controlgear,
for voltages up to 1000 V a .c. or up to
750 V to earth, d.c.
2 Single-core, non-sheathed, for internal wiring
Fixed protected installation inside appliances Suitable for installation in surface
and in or on lighting fittings. mounted or embedded conduits, only for
signalling or control circuits.
3 Light PVC-sheathed
Fixed installation in dry or damp premises. Unsuitable for outdoor use or embedding
in concrete.
4(a), 5(a) Single-core, flat twin and flat 3-core,
and6 PVC-sheathed, with and without protective
~. conductor
. ·'·
Fixed installation in dry or damp premises. Suitable for installation in walls, on
boards and in channels or embedded in
plaster.
7(a) and 7(b) Single-core, non-sheathed low temperature
installation
As for tables l(a) and l(c) above, but suitable Suitable for use in channels with cover.
for installation at low temperatures. Suitable for fixed protected installation
in or on lighting fittings and inside
appliances, switchgear and controlgear,
for voltages up to 1000 V a. c. or up to
750 V to earth, d. c.
8(a), 8(b) Single-core, heat-resistant non-sheathed
and9 For internal wiring only. Maximum conductor temperature in
normal use 90 °C. Not be used in contact
with objects higher than 85 oc.
Not suitable for fixed installations in
distribution systems.

19
 BS 6004: 1991

:..

Appendix B. Guidance on procedure Table 14. Insulation test voltage

for routine tests on PVC-sheathed
cables of rated voltages U/U up to Tabulated radial Test voltage
thickness of
4501750 v insulation
NOTE. The following information is intended to provide guidance Above Up to and a.c. (r.m.s.)
to the cablemaker on suitable procedures for the routine testing including
of cores and completed cables. They may be instituted by the
manufacturer at his option and should not be regarded as mm mm kV
requirements of this standard.
- 0.7 1.5
B.l Core stage tests 0.7 1.0 ... 2.0,.
B.l.l General 1.0 - 2.5
All cores for cables and flexible cables should be
subjected either to the spark test described in B.1.2 B.1.4 Insulation resistance test
or to the voltage and insulation resistance tests B.1.4.1 Procedure. Immediately after completion of
described in B.1.3 and B.1.4, respectively. the voltage test described in B.1.3, apply a d. c.
B.1.2 Spark test voltage of 300 V to 500 V between the conductor and
Carry out the spark test in accordance with BS 5099 the water in which the core is immersed for 1 min,
using the test voltages given in table 13. the electrification proceeding in a regular manner,
the deflection ofthe galvanometer, if used,
Table 13. Spark test voltage decreasing steadily during the period of application.
Maintain the temperature of the water in which the
Tabulated radial Test voltage core is immersed at or near to 20 oc.
thickness of
insulation B.1.4.2 Recommended test criteria. The insulation
Above Up to and a.c. (r.m.s.) d.c. resistance ofthe length of cable, in megohm
including kilometres should be not less than that resulting
from calculation using the following expression:
mm mm kV kV
D
- 1.0 6 9 Rwoo =Kloglo d
1.0 1.5 10 15
where
1.5 2.0 15 23
K is the insulation resistance constant at
2.0 2.5 20 30
20 oc (equal to 35 MQ·km);
2.5 - 25 38
D is the diameter over insulation (in mm);
B.1.3 Voltage test d is the diameter over conductor (in mm);
R 1000 is the insulation resistance of cable
B.1.3.1 Procedure. Mter the core has been immersed
(in MQ·km).
in water for not less than 12 h, apply a voltage
between the water in which the core is immersed,
B.1.5 Heat shock test
which is earthed, and the conductor. Make the test
at room temperature with an alternating voltage of B.1.5.1 Procedure. Take samples ofPVC-insulated
approximately sine-wave form having a frequency cores at regular intervals and subject them to the
in the range 49Hz to 61Hz. heat shock test in accordance with test method 4.4.2
Increase the applied voltage gradually and maintain ofBS 6469: 1990 and table 2 or 3 ofBS 6746: 1990.
I it at the full r.m.s. value shown in table 14 for 5 min. B.1.5.2 Recommended test criteria. The PVC-
B.1.3.2 Recommended test criteria. No breakdown of insulated cores should comply with the
insulation should occur. requirements given in table 2 or 3 ofBS 6746: 1990.

20
 BS 6004 : 1991
~ I

B.2 Tests on completed cable B.2.5 Heat shock test

B.2.1 General B.2.5.1 Procedure. Take samples oftested cables at
Completed cables should be subjected to the tests regular intervals and subject them to the heat shock
described in B.2.2 to B.2.6. test on sheath in accordance with 4.4.3 ofBS 6469 :
1990 and table 2 or 3 ofBS 6746: 1990.
B.2.2 Conductor resistance
B.2.5.2 Recommended test criteria. The tables
B.2.2.1 Procedure. Leave the cable in the test area, should comply with the requirements of table 2 or 3
which is at a reasonably constant temperature, for ofBS 6746: 1990.
sufficient time to ensure that the cable temperature
is equal to the ambient temperature. Measure the B.2.6 Constructional and dimensional check
d.c. resistance of the conductor at room A sample of completed cable should be checked for
temperature. compliance with tables 1 to 9, as appropriate.
B.2.2.2 Recommended test criteria. Calculate the
resistance per unit length from the production Appendix C. Non-contamination test
length of the completed cable and not from the
Subject three pieces of completed cable about
length of the individual cores or wires.
200 mm long, each taken at least 1m from the other
The d.c. resistance ofthe conductor, measured at two, to accelerated ageing treatment in the
room temperature and corrected to 20 oc by the equipment described in 2.3.1.2 ofBS 6469 : 1990 for
factors given in BS 6360 should comply with 7 days at 80 ± 2 oc. The cable pieces shall occupy not
BS 6360. more than 2% of the volume of the oven.
B.2.3 Voltage test Immediately after completion of the treatment,
remove the cable pieces from the oven and leave at
B.2.3.1 Procedure. Subject completed twin and room temperature away from direct sunlight for at
multicore cables to the voltage test without least 16 hand prepare test pieces of cable as
immersion in water. described in 2.2 ofBS 6469: 1990.
Apply the voltage between conductors and between Determine the median values of the tensile strength
each conductor and the protective conductor (where and elongation at break for these test pieces as
provided), which should be earthed. described in 2.2 ofBS 6469: 1990. Compare these
NOTE. Completed single-core sheathed cables may be tested in values with the median values obtained on the test
water.
pieces taken from the 100 mm lengths which have
Make the test at room temperature with an not been subjected to ageing.
alternating voltage of approximately sine-wave form
having a frequency in the range 49Hz to 61Hz.
Increase the voltage gradually and maintain it at
Appendix D. Electrical tests
the full r .m.s. value shown in table 14 for 5 min. D.l Test conditions
'B.2.3.2 Recommended test criteria. No breakdown Unless otherwise specified, make tests at ambient
of insulation should occur. temperature with alternating voltages of
approximately sine-wave form, having a frequency
B.2.4 Insulation resistance in the range of 49Hz to 61Hz, and ofthe r.m.s.
Immediately after the completion of the voltage test values given in table 10. The ratio peak value/r.m.s.
described in B.2.3, carry out an insulation value being equal to -12with a tolerance of± 7 %.
resistance test.
D.2 Voltage test on complete cable
Follow the method described in B.1.3 but make the
measurement between conductors and between each D.2.1 Test sample
conductor and the protective conductor (where Take a sample of cable, as delivered oflength as
provided), which should be earthed. given in table 10.
For multicore cables, group the cores such that the D.2.2 Procedure
cores adjacent to those being tested are connected to
earth. Immerse the sample of cable in water at the
temperature given in table 10. Ensure that the ends
Where single-core sheathed cables are tested in of the cores protrude above the water by a distance
water, use the method described in B.1.4 . sufficient to prevent excessive surface leakage when
the test voltage is applied.

21
 BS 6004: 1991
-- "'

I Apply a voltage of the magnitude given in table 10 D.6 Test to check the absence of faults on
in turn between each conductor and all the others insulation
connected together and to the water, and between
D.6.1 Test length
all conductors and the water for the time given in
I table 10. In both cases earth the protective Take all cable that is in the final stage of
conductor (where provided) but do not include it in manufacture and either in delivery lengths or in
the conductors to be tested. manufacturing lengths prior to being cut into
delivery lengths.
D.3 Voltage test on cores
D.6.2 Procedure
D.3.1 Test sample
D.6.2.1 General. Test single-core cables by the
Prepare a sample of core of the length given in table spark test in accordance with D.6.2.2 and multicore
10 by carefully removing the sheath and any other
cables and sheathed flat cables by the voltage test in
covering or filling from a length of complete cable.
accordance with D.6.2.3.
D.3.2 Procedure
D.6.2.2 Spark test
Immerse the core in water at the temperature given
in table 10 and apply a voltage of the magnitude D.6.2.2.1 Apparatus. The spark test equipment
given in table 10 between the conductors and the shall provide a magnitude and presence of the
water for the time given in table 10. Ensure that the voltage that, together with the electrode system
ends of the cores protrude above the water by a employed and the speed of passage employed for the
distance sufficient to prevent excessive surface passage of the cable through the equipment, is
leakage when the test voltage is applied. capable of detecting a puncture in the insulation
having a diameter equal to or greater than half of
D.4 Insulation resistance the specified insulation thickness. The recovery
time of the spark tester shall be not greater than 1 s.
D.4.1 Test sample NOTE. The voltage applied by the spark tester may be power
Make the test on a core sample of the length given in frequency a. c., d. c., high frequency or of other form.
I table 10 previously submitted to the test specified When a spark test equipment is tested as described
in D.3 or if this is not applicable, to the test specified in appendix E all the faults shall be registered by
inD.2. the equipment.
D.4.2 Procedure D.6.2.2.2 Procedure. Test the cable at the voltage
and speed of passage specified in D.6.2.2.1.
Immerse the sample in water previously heated to
I the temperature given in table 10 with a length of D.6.2.3 Voltage test. With the cable in the dry state
about 250 mm at each end of the sample projecting and at room temperature apply a voltage of the
I above the water, for the time given in table 10. magnitude given in table 10 derived either from an
Apply a d.c. voltage of between 80 V and 500 V a.c. source or from a d.c. source between each
between the conductor and the water. conductor and all the other conductors connected to
earth. Increase the voltage gradually and maintain
Measure the insulation resistance 1 min after
application ofthe voltage. Correct the value to it at the full value for the duration given in table 10.
MQ·km.
D.5 Long term resistance of insulation to d.c.
Appendix E. Procedure for checking
D.5.1 Test samples the efficacy of the method of spark
Carry out the test on a sample of core of the length testing
I given in table 10 from which all coverings have
been removed. E.l Principle
D.5.2 Procedure The principle of this method is to standardize the
method by which manufacturers may demonstrate
Immerse the sample in an aqueous solution of that their spark testing method is effective in
sodium chloride having a concentration of 10 giL detecting faults in the insulation as specified
previously brought to the temperature given in table in D.6.2.2.
10, with a length of about 250 mm at each end of the
sample projecting above the solution. Connect the It is imperative that the manufacturer's
negative pole of a 220 V d. c. supply to the conductor instructions for production and control procedures
of the sample and the positive pole to a copper provide that cable for which spark testing is
electrode immersed in the solution for the time required is effectively tested in practice.
given in table 10.

' -:~
'"""'ill'"""""""' 2.::,
2 _ _"""'"'"_ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _...;.,~·~---~---~----=·· .:.
·- - -
 ·_.,----
-~-~-...
BS 6004: 1991

E.2 Selection and preparation of test pieces position where the insulation was removed
(see figure 2).
E.2.1 Sampling
(d) In this layer, in the middle of the place where
Prepare two test-lengths of cores, one with the the insulation has been removed, use a hot needle
smallest insulation thickness for the relevant types to punch a hole in the tape with a diameter equal
of cable, the other core with the largest insulation to half of the allowed minimum insulation
thickness for the relevant types of cable. thickness.
E.2.2 Preparation ofpunctures Prepare the other test piece in the same way.
Prepare the punctures in the insulation as follows. E.3 Procedure
(a) Remove the insulation from the core for a
length of about five times the nominal insulation E.3.1 Efficacy ofdetecting
thickness. · Pass the prepared test piece through the spark test
(b) From the piece of insulation which has been equipment at the highest speed for which the
removed, remove a segment of about 30°. Then equipment is intended, the voltage applied between
replace the remaining piece of the insulation on the electrode and the conductor being that normally
the conductor (see figure 1). used.
(c) Over the replaced piece of the insulation, place E.3.2 Recovery time
one layer of adhering tape, e.g. polyethylene Pass at least two faults through the spark test
terephthalate, with a length of at least ten times equipment at its actual operating speed u, in metres
the nominal insulation thickness, in a per second, the distance in metres between two
longitudinal direction, with an overlap. Situate faults being not greater than the value ofv .
this overlap on the opposite side of the core to the

·-

approx. 30°

(a)
i (b)

Figure 1. Spark test check: removal of Figure 2. Spark test check: covering w ith
insulation (see E.2.2) tape

23
 BS 6004 : 1991

Publication(s) referred to
BS 4066 Tests on electric cables under fire..·conditions
Part 1 Method of test on a single vertical insulated wire or cable
BS 4727 Glossary of electrotechnical, power, telecommunication, electronics, lighting and colour
terms
BS 5099 Specification for spark testing of electric cables
BS 6360 Specification for conductors in insulated cables and cords
BS 6469 Methods of test for insulation and sheath of electric cables
BS 6500 Specification for insulated flexible cords and cables
BS 6746 Specification for PVC insulation and sheath of electric cables
PD 2379 Register of colours of manufacturers' identification threads for electric cables and cords
HD 21 S2 Polyvinyl chloride insulated cables of rated voltages up to and including 450/750 V
Regulations for Electrical Installations. Fifteenth Edition. 1981 1>

I) Published by the Institution of Electrical Engineers.

BASEC'S Certification Trade Marks and Approval Threads

The British Approvals Service for Cables (BASEC) is the owner of certification trade marks. These marks, which are shown below, :!-"
may be used only by manufacturers who are licensed under the certification mark schemes operated by BASEC. The presence of
·any one of these marks pn or in rel ation to electric cables is an assurance that they have been produced und er a system of
supervision and control operated during manufacture, and including frequent independent sampling and testing of production,
designed to provide assurance of compliance with appropriate British Standards.

Certification 'Ii·ade Mark

1. Symbol:
2. Identification marking: 'BASEC'
3. Identification thread: plain yellow and of a material soluble in acetone.
BASEC is a subscriber to an agreement in CENELEC whereby cables or corcls coming within harmonized code designations and
manufactured under a BASEC licence can, under certain conditions, carry marks acceptable to other signatory countries
(CENELEC 'Common Marking'). ~-

4. Identification marking: 'BASEC <l HAR 1>'

5. Identification thread: a single thread on which a sequence of a black section (10 mm), a red section (10 mm) and a
yellow section (30 mm) is run.
Particulars of the conditions under which licences are granted may be obtained from the Secretary, British Approvals Service for
Cables Ltd., Silbury Court, 360 Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 2AF.