 Cables with up to 5 conductors are generally identified with by a colour code. Specific functions are assigned to the colours of the conductors, for example phase, neutral and earth conductor. These colours are standardized in Harmonization Document HD 308.
HD 308 S2:2001 "Identification and use of the conductors in flexible and insulated cables" was ratified by CENELEC on 1.5.2001 and has accordingly also been applicable in Switzerland since this date. In the transitional period until 1.4.2006, both colour codes (i.e. SEV and CENELEC) are permitted and can be used as desired.
New conductor colour code and its area of application
- the colour for the earth conductor remains yellow-green
- the colour of the neutral conductor remains blue
- PRINCIPAL CHANGE: introduction of phase colours "brown" (L1) and "grey" (L3) (previously other colours).The phase colour "black" corresponds to (L2).
- NEW: use of the same colour code for fixed and mobile installations.
The new standard is not applicable for cables with a nominal voltage greater than 1kV, for cables with more than 5 conductors, and for low-voltage mains cables in accordance with HD 603 (such as GKN, etc).
Consequences
These changes affect:
- Low-voltage installations
The relevant standards are published in Switzerland in SEV 1000 "Low-voltage Installation Standard (NIN/NIBT)", of which the current 2005 version contains the new HD 308 S2:2001 colour code.
Installations in accordance with this code have been acceptable in principle since its adoption in December 2001.
- Construction standard for cables
Technical Committee TK 20 consequently assumed the task of adapting HD 308 S2 for all rigid and flexible low-voltage cables and conductors in the future. This applies in all CENELEC member countries (EU countries, CH, etc).
Advantages and benefits of the transitional period
On expiry of the transitional period on 01 April 2006, production of cables with the new conductor colours will have to be adapted. Until then, it is recommended:
- to use up existing stocks, although the mixing of cables of the two SEV and CENELEC colour codes presents absolutely no problem (see connection sequence below)
- and then to change to installations according to the new colour code
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About
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About Nexans
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With energy as the basis of its development, Nexans, the worldwide leader in the cable industry, offers an extensive range of cables and cabling systems. The Group is a global player in the infrastructure, industry and building markets. Nexans addresses a series of market segments from energy, transport and telecom networks to shipbuilding, oil and gas, nuclear, automotive, electronics, aeronautics, handling and automation.
With an industrial presence in more than 30 countries and commercial activities worldwide, Nexans employs 21,000 people and had sales in 2006 of 7.5 billion euros. Nexans is listed on the Paris stock exchange, compartment A of the Eurolist of Euronext. More information on www.nexans.com
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