Electrical test methods for low voltage energy cables

EN 50395 contains electrical test methods required for the testing of harmonized low voltage energy
cables, especially those rated at up to and including 450/750 V.
NOTE 1 A description of the origin of these test methods and the background to this European Standard is given in the Introduction and in Annex B.
The particular cable standard dictates the tests which need to be performed on the relevant cable
type. It also specifies whether the specific test is a type test (T), a sample test (S) or a routine test (R) for the particular cable type.
NOTE 2 T, S and R are defined in the relevant cable standard.
The requirements to be met during or after the test are specified for the particular cable type in the
relevant cable standard. However, some test requirements are obvious and universal, such as the fact that no breakdown shall occur during voltage tests, and these are stated in the particular test method.
Test methods for use specifically in utility power cables are not covered by this European Standard.
They can be found in HD 605.
Test methods for use specifically in communications cables are the responsibility of the Technical
Committee CENELEC TC 46X, Communication cables. At present such test methods are given in
EN 50289 series.

Elektrische Prüfverfahren für Niederspannungskabel und -leitungen

Méthodes d'essais électriques pour les câbles d'énergie basse tension

Metode za preskušanje električnih lastnosti nizkonapetostnih energetskih kablov - Dopolnilo A1

EN 50395 vsebuje metode za preskušanje električnih lastnosti, potrebne za preskušanje harmoniziranih nizkonapetostnih energetskih kablov, predvsem tistih z nazivno napetostjo do vključno 450/750 V.
OPOMBA 1: Opis izvora teh preskusnih metod in ozadje tega evropskega standarda sta podana v uvodu in dodatku B.
Standard za določen kabel narekuje, katere preskuse je treba opraviti na ustrezni vrsti kabla.
Opredeljuje tudi, ali je pri neki vrsti kabla določen preskus tipski preskus (T), vzorčni preskus (S) ali rutinski preskus (R).
OPOMBA 2: T, S in R so opredeljeni v standardu za ustrezni kabel.
Zahteve, ki morajo biti izpolnjene med preskusom ali po njem, so opredeljene za določeno vrsto kabla v standardu za ustrezen kabel. Vendar pa so nekatere preskusne zahteve očitne in univerzalne kot dejstvo, da med napetostnimi preskusi ne pride do okvare, in te so navedene v določeni preskusni metodi.
Ta evropski standard ne zajema preskusnih metod, ki se uporabljajo izrecno v priročnih energetskih kablih.
Te so navedene v HD 605.
Za preskusne metode, ki se uporabljajo izrecno v komunikacijskih kablih, je odgovoren Tehnični odbor CENELEC TC 46X, Komunikacijski kabli. Trenutno so te preskusne metode navedene v seriji EN 50289.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
07-Apr-2011
Technical Committee
IEKA - Electric cables
Current Stage
6060 - National Implementation/Publication (Adopted Project)
Start Date
22-Mar-2011
Due Date
27-May-2011
Completion Date
08-Apr-2011

Relations

Effective Date
01-May-2011

Overview

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 is a European standard developed by CENELEC that specifies electrical test methods for low voltage energy cables. This standard serves as a key technical reference for manufacturers, testing laboratories, and regulatory bodies involved in ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of low voltage power cables used across various industries.

Dating back to the original 2005 publication with an amendment in 2011, EN 50395/A1 addresses precise test procedures to verify cable performance and durability under electrical stress. It is part of the broader framework of European electrotechnical standards and was prepared by the Technical Committee CENELEC TC 20, specializing in electric cables.

Although the standard was removed from the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) as a mandatory reference in 2019, it remains a valuable supporting document for compliance and quality assurance in cable manufacturing.


Key Topics

  • Scope of Electrical Testing
    EN 50395/A1 defines test methods to evaluate the electrical properties of low voltage energy cables, focusing on insulation integrity and resistance.

  • Normative References
    The amendment replaces EN 50356 with EN 62230:2007 as the normative reference for spark test methods-critical for detecting insulation defects.

  • Spark Test Method
    This test identifies pinholes, cuts, or imperfections in the cable insulation by applying a high voltage spark, which reveals vulnerabilities before installation.

  • Resistance and Resistivity Calculations
    The standard includes formulas to calculate resistance values based on common insulation materials like PVC and thermoplastic polyolefins, considering volume resistivity at operating temperatures.

  • Compliance Dates and Implementation
    The amendment was mandated for national adoption by March 2012, with conflicting national standards withdrawn by March 2014.


Applications

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 applies to testing and quality verification of a wide range of low voltage energy cables used in:

  • Residential and Commercial Electrical Wiring
    Ensuring safety and performance for building power distribution systems.

  • Industrial Power Installations
    Verification of cables used in machinery, control systems, and electrical panels subject to electrical stress.

  • Infrastructure and Utility Networks
    Validation of underground and overhead cable insulation critical to power grids.

  • Cable Manufacturing and Quality Control
    Standardizing test methods in production to maintain consistent electrical performance and reduce failures.

By following EN 50395/A1, manufacturers and testing facilities can detect insulation weaknesses early, prevent electrical faults, and comply with European electrotechnical quality norms.


Related Standards

  • EN 62230:2007 – Electric cables spark test method, now referenced in the amendment for insulation defect testing.

  • EN 50356 – Previously referenced for spark testing, replaced by EN 62230 in this amendment.

  • Low Voltage Directive (LVD) Compliance – While EN 50395/A1 was disconnected from direct LVD linkage in 2019, it supports compliance frameworks by providing recognized testing protocols.

  • Other CENELEC TC 20 Standards – Complementary standards focusing on mechanical, thermal, and chemical testing for electric cables.

Use of SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 alongside these related standards enhances the reliability and safety of low voltage energy cable installations throughout Europe.


By integrating these precise electrical test methods, professionals ensure that low voltage energy cables meet stringent safety, durability, and performance criteria essential for modern electrical infrastructure. Adherence to EN 50395/A1 supports industry best practices and helps maintain high standards across the European electrotechnical market.

Amendment

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011

English language
3 pages
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Frequently Asked Questions

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 is a amendment published by the Slovenian Institute for Standardization (SIST). Its full title is "Electrical test methods for low voltage energy cables". This standard covers: EN 50395 contains electrical test methods required for the testing of harmonized low voltage energy cables, especially those rated at up to and including 450/750 V. NOTE 1 A description of the origin of these test methods and the background to this European Standard is given in the Introduction and in Annex B. The particular cable standard dictates the tests which need to be performed on the relevant cable type. It also specifies whether the specific test is a type test (T), a sample test (S) or a routine test (R) for the particular cable type. NOTE 2 T, S and R are defined in the relevant cable standard. The requirements to be met during or after the test are specified for the particular cable type in the relevant cable standard. However, some test requirements are obvious and universal, such as the fact that no breakdown shall occur during voltage tests, and these are stated in the particular test method. Test methods for use specifically in utility power cables are not covered by this European Standard. They can be found in HD 605. Test methods for use specifically in communications cables are the responsibility of the Technical Committee CENELEC TC 46X, Communication cables. At present such test methods are given in EN 50289 series.

EN 50395 contains electrical test methods required for the testing of harmonized low voltage energy cables, especially those rated at up to and including 450/750 V. NOTE 1 A description of the origin of these test methods and the background to this European Standard is given in the Introduction and in Annex B. The particular cable standard dictates the tests which need to be performed on the relevant cable type. It also specifies whether the specific test is a type test (T), a sample test (S) or a routine test (R) for the particular cable type. NOTE 2 T, S and R are defined in the relevant cable standard. The requirements to be met during or after the test are specified for the particular cable type in the relevant cable standard. However, some test requirements are obvious and universal, such as the fact that no breakdown shall occur during voltage tests, and these are stated in the particular test method. Test methods for use specifically in utility power cables are not covered by this European Standard. They can be found in HD 605. Test methods for use specifically in communications cables are the responsibility of the Technical Committee CENELEC TC 46X, Communication cables. At present such test methods are given in EN 50289 series.

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 29.060.20 - Cables. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to SIST EN 50395:2005. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2006/95/EC, 2014/35/EU. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.

SIST EN 50395:2005/A1:2011 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-maj-2011
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Electrical test methods for low voltage energy cables
Elektrische Prüfverfahren für Niederspannungskabel und -leitungen
Méthodes d'essais électriques pour les câbles d'énergie basse tension
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 50395:2005/A1:2011
ICS:
29.060.20 Kabli Cables
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN 50395/A1
NORME EUROPÉENNE
March 2011
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 29.060.20
English version
Electrical test methods for low voltage energy cables

Méthodes d'essais électriques pour les Elektrische Prüfverfahren für
câbles d'énergie basse tension Niederspannungskabel und -leitungen

This amendment A1 modifies the European Standard EN 50395:2005; it was approved by CENELEC on
2011-03-14. CENELEC members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which
stipulate the conditions for giving this amendment the status of a national standard without any alteration.

Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on
application to the Central Secretariat or to any CENELEC member.

This amendment exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified to the
Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.

CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus,
the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Icelan
...

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