17th March 2008

Talking in code is only ever effective when the person with whom you are communicating knows how to read it. In the field of cable, this means using a common coding system that clearly indicates – wherever you are in Europe – to what specification and standard a cable has been manufactured. Sounds simple, but before the 1980s – when cable testing and manufacturing equipment was developed in relative isolation across the world – it was anything but.

Thanks to the harmonised approach of CENELEC (the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardisation), however, a single system of code designation for power cables enables companies to make informed decisions about their cable purchases. The system, published in harmonisation document HD 361 and DIN VDE 0292, has helped cut compliance costs and guarantee safety and consistent quality for companies fulfilling contracts across the continent. In much the same way as the standardised colour coding system introduced back in 2004, these harmonised codes have worked to eliminate trade barriers and drive the single European market. Buying the right cable for the right European contract has never been easier – one specification, one code.

Cracking the cable code
The code used to identify specific cables in the harmonised system can be broken down into three parts. The first part indicates whether or not the cable in question fully complies with the common rules laid down by CENELEC and the nominal voltage. The second part looks in more detail at the cable design – insulating and sheathing materials, design features and type of conductor. And the third and final part identifies the number of cores and the nominal cross section(s) of conductors. Here are a few examples of the code in practice:

H07RN-F – Voltage Rating: 450/750V; Insulation: EPR (Ethylene Propylene Rubber); Sheath: PCP (Polychloroprene); Conductor form: flexible (CLASS 5) conductor

H07BN4-F – Voltage Rating: 450/750V; Insulation: Ethylene-propylene rubber; Sheath: HOFR CSP (Heat & Oil Resistant & Flame Retardant Chlorosulphonated Polyethylene); Conductor form: flexible (CLASS 5) conductor

H01N2-D – Voltage Rating: 100V; Insulation: Special polychloroprene compound, HOFR Conductor form: flexible conductor for use in arc welding cables

H05Z-K – Voltage Rating: 300/500V; Insulation: Polyolefin-based cross-linked compound LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen); Conductor form: flexible conductor for fixed installations

H07V-R – Voltage Rating: 450/750; Insulation: PVC Conductor form: rigid, round conductor, stranded

Part 1 of the Designation

Part 2 of the Designation

Part 3 of the Designation