Overview
IEC 62677-1:2017 - Heat shrinkable low and medium voltage moulded shapes – Part 1: General requirements - is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This standard specifies the general requirements and test methods for heat shrinkable moulded shapes designed for use in low and medium voltage electrical applications. Applicable to a range of configurations and materials, these moulded shapes are used for insulation, environmental sealing, mechanical protection, electrical conductance, anti-tracking, and strain relief, especially in power cable terminations, joints, and stop ends. As part of the IEC 62677 series, it provides a framework for qualification, selection, and assessment of performance, ensuring reliability and safety in cable accessory installations.
Key Topics
- Scope & Purpose: IEC 62677-1:2017 covers heat shrinkable moulded shapes intended for low and medium voltage cable accessories, defining material requirements and testing protocols.
- Material and Product Specifications: Outlines requirements for material composition, performance characteristics, colour, finish, dimensions, packaging, and labelling.
- Testing and Qualification: Specifies the need for rigorous testing (as further detailed in related parts of the series), qualification approval, and consignment tests for quality assurance.
- Product Configurations: Common shapes covered include breakouts, rainsheds, end caps, and bushing boots designed to accommodate a variety of cable assembly requirements.
Applications
Heat shrinkable low and medium voltage moulded shapes are widely used in the electrical industry for enhancing the reliability and lifespan of cable connections and accessories. Practical applications include:
- Insulation and Protection: Providing electrical insulation to power cable terminations, joints, and stop ends, ensuring safety and operational stability.
- Environmental Sealing: Shielding cable assemblies from moisture, dust, and other environmental contaminants, crucial for outdoor or underground installations.
- Mechanical and Electrical Integrity: Offering mechanical protection against physical stresses and delivering anti-tracking properties to prevent surface electrical discharges.
- Strain Relief: Supporting cables at connection points to reduce strain and potential damage, thus improving service life.
- Versatile Use in Accessories: Employed as part of cable accessories such as breakouts for multi-core cables, end caps, and bushing boots in both new installations and maintenance operations.
These qualities make IEC 62677-1-compliant moulded shapes integral for utilities, industrial plants, and contractors seeking reliable solutions for cable management in power distribution networks.
Related Standards
For complete assessment, installation, and performance verification, refer to the following related standards:
- IEC 62677-2: Heat shrinkable low and medium voltage moulded shapes – Part 2: Methods of test
- IEC 62677-3 (all parts): Material requirements for polyolefin-based moulded shapes for various voltage applications
- IEC 60502-4: Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories – Test requirements on accessories for cables with rated voltages from 6 kV up to 30 kV
- EN 50393: Test methods and requirements for accessories for use on distribution cables of rated voltage 0.6/1.0 (1.2) kV
- HD 629.1: Test requirements on accessories for use on power cables of rated voltage from 3.6(7.2) kV up to 20.8(42) kV
These documents collectively provide comprehensive guidelines for testing, material selection, and application of heat shrinkable cable accessories, ensuring compatibility and conformity with international standards.
By implementing IEC 62677-1:2017, organizations can ensure standardized performance, safety, and durability of heat shrinkable moulded shapes for low and medium voltage electrical systems, supporting efficient and secure power distribution infrastructure.
Open preview (PDF)Heat shrinkable low and medium voltage moulded shapes - Part 1: General requirements
