BS6231 Cable
What is BS6231?
BS6231 is a British Standard – last updated in 2006 by the BSI – that highlights the performance and construction requirements of electrical cables that are single core, non-sheathed, PVC-insulated and of rated voltage 600/1000V. Many use the name to refer more generally to Trirated Cable – chances are if you ask for a BS6231 Cable you are likely to get a Trirated version. But, there are actually two types of cable under this specific British Standard – not to mention the fact Trirated Cable has to meet the requirements of three standards (not just BS6231). The first, Type BK has a maximum conductor operating temperature of 70°C and the second, Type CK Cable can reach 90°C. The most popular cable that complies with this second type is Trirated Cable.
How is a typical BS6231 cable constructed?
| 1 | Conductor | Class 5 flexible plain copper conductors to BS EN 60228:2005 (previously BS6360) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | sheath | HR PVC (Heat Resistant Polyvinyl Chloride) |
Why use BS6231 Cable?
This flexible (Class 5) copper cable is suitable for use as an internal connector in controllers, motor starters and rectifier equipment. It is designed for installation in switch control, metering, relay and instrumentation panels.
Which industries use BS6231 Cable?
It's not hard to see why BS6231 is such a popular cable. It can be used in everything from automation and process control, building and construction to marine and defence, and transmission, distribution and power networks – so you’re probably closer to this flexible cable than you think.
Is a BS6231 Cable easily identifiable by the colour of its insulation or outer surface?
According to the BS6231 Standard, a whole range of colours can be used to identify both Type BK and CK Cables. Clause 7 of the Standard does stipulate, however, that in certain circumstances, the cables could be subject to core colour requirements set down in other standards such as BS7671.
Are the two BS6231 Cables marked differently?
Both cables should be marked with the British Standard, but Type CK will also have the words ‘heat resisting 90°C’ on its outer surface.
By what other names is BS6231 Cable known?
Cables that comply with the BS6231 Type CK Standard are sometimes simply referred to as Trirated Cable or Panel Wire.
| Sheath Colour: | Black, Red, Blue, Yellow, Green/Yellow, Grey, Brown, Orange, White, Violet, Green, Pink, Light Blue, Dark Blue |
|---|---|
| Voltage Rating: | 600/1000V |
| Temperature Rating: | 90°C |
| Minimum Bending Radius: | 6 x overall diameter |
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