Internationally, the standards and requirements of cables in various countries vary due to differences in geographical, economic, technical, cultural and climatic conditions. The following is an overview of the cable standards and requirements of some major countries:
1. Specification differences
European standards: European cable standards (such as IEC standards) usually use the nominal cross-sectional area as the code for conductor specifications, and have clear provisions for the cross-sectional area, insulation thickness, conductor diameter, etc. of the cable. In addition, European cables also focus on the application of multi-layer insulation and sheath structures to enhance fire resistance, chemical resistance and mechanical strength.
American standards: American cable standards (such as UL standards) use AWG specifications as the code for conductor specifications, and have detailed provisions for the fire resistance, corrosion resistance, electrical performance and other aspects of the cable. American cable design also focuses on flexibility and easy installation. For example, MC cables with steel wire armor are widely used in industry and construction.
Chinese standards: Chinese cable standards (such as GB/T standards) cover cable specifications, material requirements, electrical properties, mechanical properties and flame retardant properties. Cables sold and used in the Chinese market must comply with relevant national standards to ensure the quality and safety of the cables.
2. Material selection
Europe: European cables focus on environmental protection and safety in material selection, such as using special polymer materials such as mineral insulated cables (MI cables) that are resistant to high temperatures and radiation.
USA: American cables recommend the use of materials such as copper cables with steel belt armor for power transmission and distribution, which can provide mechanical protection while shielding electromagnetic interference.
China: Chinese cables may be affected by cost and technical factors in material selection, but are gradually moving towards the research and development and application of high-end materials to improve the reliability and durability of cables.
3. Performance indicators
Electrical performance: Cable standards in various countries have clear requirements for electrical performance, such as insulation resistance, discharge level, etc. However, the standard values in different countries may be different. For example, China’s GB/T 12706-2008 standard stipulates that power cables exposed to the air should meet a grounding resistance of more than 5.0GΩ•km, while the US NEMA WC70-2009 standard reduces this standard to 3.0GΩ•km.
Mechanical properties: The mechanical properties of cables are also important in the standards of various countries, including tensile strength, bending radius, etc. These performance indicators ensure the stability and reliability of cables during installation and use.
Other specific standards: In addition, different countries have other specific standards, such as wind-blown dust, Edstrom volt and flame retardant test items in the US UL 444 cable standard. The existence of these items reflects the differences in climate conditions and power use environments in different countries.
4. Certification and compliance
Europe: European cables need to comply with the relevant standards set by the European Committee for Standardization (CENELEC) and pass the certification of environmental protection directives such as RoHS.
United States: American cables need to obtain certification from authoritative organizations such as UL and ETL to ensure the safety and reliability of the products.
China: Chinese cables need to obtain compulsory certification marks such as CCC to ensure that the products meet national safety standards.
In summary, the standards and requirements of cables in various countries in the world differ in specifications, materials, performance indicators, certification and compliance. These differences reflect the differences and characteristics of different countries in terms of economy, technology, culture and climate conditions. Therefore, when purchasing and using cables, be sure to understand and follow local standards and regulations.