IS 694:2010 Polyvinyl Chloride Insulated and Sheathed Cables/Cords

IS 694: 2010 is the Indian Standard for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) insulated and sheathed cables/cords. It covers cables up to voltages of 1100 volts. Electrical wiring and power distribution comprise using these cables. They are used in homes, buildings, and industries. The cables can have one or more cores. They are strong and safe. They can bear moisture, oils, chemicals, and fire. 

These standards define the minimum size for a cable's electrical and mechanical properties; they also provide rules governing insulation thickness and its material. In this way, it ensures the mechanical strength of the cables. This would keep electric hazards at bay. It contributes to the safe and reliable operation of power systems. For many applications, this standard is of great importance. It ensures that cables meet satisfactory performance and enjoy a lengthy life.

What is PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Cables?

PVC cables are electrical wires covered with a special plastic. The plastic is referred to as polyvinyl chloride. Such cables are very popular both in homes, offices, and industries. They are very robust and can bend easily. PVC cables resist moisture and chemicals, hence fire. These qualities make the cables safe for many places. They exist in different types. These have core one or multiple cores. They are capable of working at up to 1100 volts. These features make PVC cables very useful. They are reliable in most wiring applications.

This standard covers single and multicore cables. They consist of copper or aluminum rigid and flexible cables. The cables are classified by the voltage levels applied with PVC insulation and sheathing. They are rated at 450/750 V AC, 50 Hz. The cables are also for outdoor use as well as low-temperature applications. For DC, they support up to 1,500 V. The standard includes flame-retardant cables. The particular cables will produce low smoke and halogen. Their temperature should not exceed 70°C or 85°C. They must pass some kind of testing to achieve these qualities.

Key Features of BIS - IS 694:2010 

• Types of Cables: It moves over single and multi-core cables with varied applications
• Flame Retardant Options: It falls under FR and low smoke, halogen-free FR-LSH cables.
• Temperature Limits: The conductors can be operated at 70°C or 85°C.
• Testing Requirement: It defines the type of tests required for acceptance and routine tests to ensure quality and safety.
• Outdoor Use: Can be installed directly outdoors and under harsh environments
• Compliance Standards: Meets the international standards for safety and the performance of electrical cable
• Flexible and Rigid Conductor Type: Both flex and rigid types are available
• Durability Design: Aged, moisture, and mechanical stress for longer life.

• Safety Assurance: It ensures electric safety and reduces the dangers of fire and shock.
• Quality Standards: It provides quality standards to manufacture cables in the market.
• Compatibility: It fosters compatibility with other electric systems.
• Fire Resistance: It provides flame retarded cables for better fire safety purposes.
• Durability: Cables can withstand extreme conditions and promise long-lasting usage.
• Regulatory Compliance: Helps in fulfilling legal needs related to electric installation.
• Environmental Considerations: It encourages the use of eco-friendly materials when producing cables.
• User Confidence: It fosters user confidence in the safety of electric systems.
• Economic Advantages: Saving through failure and maintenance, efficiency improved.

Terminology of BIS - IS 694:2010 

• Type of Compound: Divides materials into categories based on tests. It does not relate to composition.
• Type Tests: Performed before sale. These check performance. Need not be repeated other than in the case of a change either in material or design.
• Acceptance Tests: Conducted on samples drawn from a lot. They verify whether the lot is acceptable.
• Routine Tests: These are done by manufacturers for all the finished cables. They test for the safety and soundness of the cables.
• Rated Voltage: The voltage at which a cable is designed, represented as Uo/U. Uo is the voltage to the earth, and U is the voltage between phases. In AC systems, it should be equal to or greater than the system's voltage, and in DC systems, not more than 1.5 times the rated voltage.
• Nominal Value: The value appearing in tables. It leads to measurable values with specified tolerances.

IS 694: 2010 is for cables used for electrical power and lighting. Some of its major applications are as follows:

• Indoor Application: Fixed and flexible wiring in buildings.
• Outdoor Application: This type mainly deals with outdoor installation, including gardens or parks.
• Low-Temperature Application: It suits low-temperature environments.
• Single and Multicore Cables: Suitable for both types for varying purposes.
• Flame Retardant Application: Ideal for application sites requiring fire safety.
• Applications at voltage rating: Suitable for cross-linked polyethylene insulated cables rated up to 450/750 V AC and 1,500 V DC.
• General Electrical Applications: For residential and commercial applications also for industries in electrical installation.
• Compliance with safety: This product is rated to meet the safety standards at one condition and so produces performances.

The future for BIS IS 694:2010 looks bright. There will be new technology with upgraded safety features. It will be increasingly showing restraint towards ecologically friendly material usage. Cable technologies will be upgraded for fire-resistant and longer longevity. Smart electrical systems also will gain demand. Overall, this standard will ensure safe, secure, and efficient electrical installations in the future.

Corpseed will assist businesses to be compliant with BIS – IS 694: 2010 by guidance, quality checks, and certification processes based on expert advice. We will ensure electrical installations are safe, reliable, and performance-based, which will be essential in assisting manufacturers to maintain compliance with the necessary regulations to improve product quality.