BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 - Circuit Integrity Test for Electric Cables

Ensure the safety and reliability of your electrical installations with the BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 standard. This comprehensive document provides a rigorous test method for assessing the circuit integrity of electric cables under fire conditions, specifically designed for cables with a rated voltage up to and including 0.6/1.0 kV and an overall diameter exceeding 20 mm.

Overview

Released on September 5, 2019, this standard is an essential resource for professionals in the electrical and safety industries. It outlines the procedures for testing electric cables' ability to maintain circuit integrity when exposed to fire and mechanical shock at temperatures of at least 830°C. This ensures that the cables can continue to function in extreme conditions, providing critical safety and reliability in emergency situations.

Key Features

• Standard Number: BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019
• Pages: 34
• ISBN: 978 0 539 02081 6
• Status: Standard

Why This Standard is Important

In environments where fire safety is paramount, such as in buildings, industrial facilities, and public infrastructure, the ability of electric cables to withstand fire and continue to operate is crucial. The BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 standard provides a reliable method to test and ensure that cables can maintain their functionality under such conditions. This is vital for maintaining power to emergency systems, lighting, and other critical infrastructure during a fire.

Detailed Test Methodology

The standard specifies a detailed test methodology that includes:

• Exposure of cables to fire with a temperature of at least 830°C.
• Application of mechanical shock to simulate real-world conditions during a fire.
• Assessment of the cable's ability to maintain circuit integrity throughout the test.

This rigorous testing ensures that only cables meeting the highest safety standards are used in critical applications.

Applications

The BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 standard is applicable to a wide range of industries and settings, including:

• Construction and building safety
• Industrial and manufacturing facilities
• Public infrastructure and transportation systems
• Emergency services and critical infrastructure

By adhering to this standard, organizations can ensure that their electrical systems are robust and reliable, even in the most challenging conditions.

Benefits of Compliance

Compliance with the BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 standard offers numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced safety for personnel and property by ensuring reliable power supply during fires.
• Increased confidence in the performance of electrical systems under extreme conditions.
• Alignment with international safety standards, facilitating global operations and partnerships.

Conclusion

The BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 standard is an indispensable tool for ensuring the safety and reliability of electric cables in fire-prone environments. By following the rigorous testing methods outlined in this document, organizations can safeguard their operations and protect lives and property. Whether you are involved in construction, industrial operations, or public safety, this standard provides the assurance you need to maintain circuit integrity under the most demanding conditions.

BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019

This standard BS EN IEC 60331-1:2019 Tests for electric cables under fire conditions. Circuit integrity is classified in these ICS categories:

• 13.220.40 Ignitability and burning behaviour of materials and products
• 29.060.20 Cables

This part of IEC 60331 specifies the test method for cables which are required to maintain circuit integrity when subject to fire and mechanical shock under specified conditions.

This document is applicable to cables of rated voltage not exceeding 600 V/1 000 V, including those of rated voltage below 80 V, metallic data and telecom cables and optical fibre cables.

It is intended for use when testing cables of greater than 20 mm overall diameter.

Cables of smaller diameter are intended to be tested using the apparatus, procedure and requirements of IEC 60331-2.

This document includes details for the specific point of failure, continuity checking arrangement, test sample, test procedure and test report relevant to electric power and control cables with rated voltage up to and including 600 V/1 000 V. Details for the specific point of failure, continuity checking arrangement, test sample, test procedure and test report relevant to metallic data and telecom cables and optical fibre cables are not given by IEC 60331-1.

Although the scope is restricted to cables with rated voltage up to and including 0,6/1,0 kV, the procedure can be used, with the agreement of the manufacturer and the purchaser, for cables with rated voltage up to and including 1,8/3 (3,3) kV, provided that suitable fuses are used.

Annex A provides the method of verification of the burner and control system used for the test.

Requirements are stated for an identification that may optionally be marked on the cable to signify compliance with this document.

CAUTION – The test given in this standard may involve the use of dangerous voltages and temperatures. Suitable precautions should be taken against the risk of shock, burning, fire and explosion that may be involved, and against any noxious fumes that may be produced.