En 50397-2 PDF
En 50397-2 PDF
En 50397-2 PDF
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM October 2009
ICS 29.240.20
English version
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2009-04-22. CENELEC members are bound to comply
with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard
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 European Standard 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, Cyprus, the
Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
CENELEC
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
© 2009 CENELEC - All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC members.
Foreword
This European Standard was prepared by the Technical Committee CENELEC TC 20, Electric
cables.
The text of the draft was submitted to the formal vote and was approved by CENELEC as
EN 50397-2 on 2009-04-22.
EN 50397 consists of two parts: Part 1 "Covered Conductors" and Part 2 "Accessories". It
covers the construction, performance and test acceptance criteria for covered conductors for
overhead lines having a nominal voltage above 1 kV a.c. up to and including 36 kV a.c., and
for the related accessories.
NOTE It has been assumed in the preparation of this document that the execution of its provisions will be
entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced people, for whose use it has been produced.
WARNING This European Standard calls for the use of substances and/or procedures that
may be injurious to health if adequate precautions are not taken. It refers only to technical
suitability and does not absolve the user from legal obligations relating to health and safety at
any stage.
__________
–3– EN 50397-2:2009
Contents
Introduction............................................................................................................................. 5
1 Scope ............................................................................................................................... 6
2 Normative references ....................................................................................................... 6
3 Terms and definitions ....................................................................................................... 6
4 Requirements ................................................................................................................... 8
4.1 General requirements .............................................................................................. 8
4.2 Specific requirements for fittings used on covered conductor .................................. 8
4.3 Marking ................................................................................................................. 10
5 Quality assurance ........................................................................................................... 10
6 Classification of tests – Type tests, sample tests, routine tests ....................................... 10
6.1 Type tests ............................................................................................................. 10
6.2 Sample tests ......................................................................................................... 11
6.3 Routine tests ......................................................................................................... 11
7 Tests .............................................................................................................................. 11
7.1 Visual examination ................................................................................................ 12
7.2 Dimensional and material verification .................................................................... 12
7.3 Test for permanent marking ................................................................................... 12
7.4 Mechanical tests ................................................................................................... 12
7.5 Hot dip galvanizing test ......................................................................................... 31
7.6 Water tightness test for IPC ................................................................................... 31
7.7 Electrical ageing test for connectors ...................................................................... 32
7.8 Short-circuit test on APD or EPD ........................................................................... 32
7.9 Power arc test ....................................................................................................... 33
7.10 Environmental test for suspension and tension clamps .......................................... 34
7.11 Environmental tests for connectors ........................................................................ 36
Annex A (normative) Type tests, sample tests and routine tests ............................................ 39
Annex B (informative) Example of sampling with inspection by attributes ............................ 40
Annex C (informative) Example of sampling with inspection by variable ............................... 41
Annex D (normative) Special national conditions.................................................................. 42
Bibliography .......................................................................................................................... 43
EN 50397-2:2009 –4–
Figures
Figures 1 - Test arrangement for damage and failure load test ............................................. 14
Figures 2 - Test arrangement of slip test at ambient temperature .......................................... 15
Figures 3 - Slip test arrangement at low temperature ............................................................ 17
Figure 4 - Lift and side load test............................................................................................ 20
Figure 5 - Tensile test arrangement ...................................................................................... 22
Figure 6 - Arrangement for the low temperature zone ........................................................... 23
Figure 7 - Test arrangement ................................................................................................. 29
Figure 8 - Mechanical stresses on earth parking device ........................................................ 31
Figure 9 - Test arrangement for water tightness test ............................................................. 32
Figure 10 - Resistance measurement .................................................................................... 33
Figure 11 - Example of power arc test arrangement for arc protection system ....................... 34
Tables
Table 1 - Specified minimum loads ....................................................................................... 19
Table A.1 .............................................................................................................................. 39
–5– EN 50397-2:2009
Introduction
Since covered conductors are unscreened, they are not touch-proof, i.e. they must be treated
as bare conductors with respect to electric shock.
EN 50397-2 does not cover aspects related to the installation of overhead lines such as
determination of clearances, spans, sags, etc.
EN 50397-2:2009 –6–
1 Scope
This Part 2 of EN 50397 contains the requirements for accessories that are for use with the
covered conductors in accordance with EN 50397-1. They are for applications in overhead
lines with rated voltages U above 1 kV a.c. and not exceeding 36 kV a.c.
NOTE This European Standard describes the requirements and tests only for the accessories installed on the
covered conductor itself.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 50397-1:2006 Covered conductors for overhead lines and the related accessories for
rated voltages above 1 kV a.c. and not exceeding 36 kV a.c. - Part 1:
Covered conductors
EN 50483-5 Test requirements for low voltage aerial bundled cable accessories -
Part 5: Electrical ageing test
EN 50483-6:2009 Test requirements for low voltage aerial bundled cable accessories -
Part 6: Environmental testing
EN 61284:1997 Overhead lines - Requirements and tests for fittings (IEC 61284:1997)
EN 61467 Insulators for overhead lines - Insulator strings and sets for lines with a
nominal voltage greater than 1 000 V - AC power arc tests (IEC 61467)
EN ISO 1461 Hot dip galvanized coatings on fabricated iron and steel articles -
Specifications and test methods (ISO 1461)
IEC 60050-461 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) - Part 461: Electric
cables
ISO 2859-1 Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes - Part 1: Sampling
schemes indexed by acceptance quality limit (AQL) for lot-by-lot
inspection
ISO 2859-2 Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes - Part 2: Sampling
plans indexed by limiting quality (LQ) for isolated lot inspection
ISO 3951 series Sampling procedures for inspection by variables
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
type tests (symbol T)
tests required to be made before supplying a type of product covered by this EN on a general
commercial basis in order to demonstrate satisfactory performance characteristics to meet the
intended application
NOTE These tests are of such nature that, after they have been made, they need not be repeated unless
changes are made in the material, design or manufacturing process, which might change the performance
characteristics.
3.2
sample tests (symbol S)
tests made on samples of completed product or components taken from the completed
product adequate to verify, that the finished product meets the design specifications
–7– EN 50397-2:2009
3.3
routine tests (symbol R)
tests intended to prove conformance of fittings to specific requirements and made on every
fitting
3.4
rated voltage
the reference voltage (U), for which it is designed and which serves to define the electrical
tests
NOTE The rated voltage is expressed by the value U expressed in kV, where U is the r.m.s. value between any
two phase conductors.
3.5
ambient temperature
the temperature from 15 °C to 30 °C
3.6
factory-formed helical conductor fitting
fitting consisting of helically formed wires which provide the force necessary to grip the
conductor by self-tightening
3.7
tension clamp
device which firmly attaches a covered conductor to a support and is designed to transmit the
specified mechanical tension in the conductor to the supporting structure
3.8
tension joints
mid-span sleeve designed to joint two lengths of tensioned conductor
3.9
non-tension joints
sleeve designed to joint two lengths of non tensioned conductor
3.10
suspension clamp
device which attaches a covered conductor to a support in order to carry its weight and any
specified load
3.11
top clamp
device to clamp the covered conductor on the top of a pin or line post insulator in order to
carry its weight and any specified load
3.12
terminals
metallic device to connect a covered conductor to an electrical equipment
3.13
branch connector
metallic device for connecting a branch conductor to a main conductor at an intermediate
point on the latter
[IEV 461-17-05]
EN 50397-2:2009 –8–
3.14
arc protection devices (APD)
metallic device installed on the conductor or on accessories to protect the conductor against
the possible arcs
3.15
arc protection system
assembly of arc protection devices, insulators and conductor, including all needed
accessories
3.16
earth parking devices (EPD)
device installed on the conductor to allow temporary earthing
3.17
specified minimum slip load (SMSL)
minimum load specified by the purchaser or declared by the supplier at which slippage will not
take place
3.18
specified minimum failure load (SMFL)
minimum load specified by the purchaser or declared by the supplier at which mechanical
failure will not take place
NOTE From the probabilistic point of view, the specified minimum failure load corresponds to the value having
the probability of e % in the distribution function of the strength of the fitting. The exclusion limit e % is usually
taken within 2 % to 5 % with 10 % being the upper limit (see IEC 60826).
3.19
specified minimum mechanical damage failure load (SMMDL)
minimum load specified by the purchaser or declared by the supplier at which unacceptable
deformation will not take place
3.20
rated tensile strength (RTS)
estimate of the conductor breaking load calculated using the specified tensile properties of
the components wires (see EN 50397-1, 4.2.1)
3.21
minimum breaking load (MBL)
minimum breaking load of the conductor given by the manufacturer if not defined in
EN 50397-1
4 Requirements
The piercing part or element of any accessories shall not decrease the mechanical strength of
the conductor below than 90 % of the rated tensile strength (RTS) of the conductor. They can
be watertight or not. If they are watertight, they shall prevent moisture ingress in the
conductor. The water tightness shall be tested according to 7.8.
–9– EN 50397-2:2009
For the purpose of terminating covered conductors over the covering fitting shall include, but
are not limited to, the following:
- cone, bolted or wedge type clamp;
- preformed helical fittings.
The fittings shall be able to withstand the specific minimum failure load (SMFL) and shall not
damage the covering and shall be designed to prevent the ingress of moisture during service.
NOTE “shall not damage the covering” means no damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of
the covering.
Fittings for the purpose of suspension over the covering include, but are not limited to the
following:
- top-clamps;
- pre-formed helical fittings;
- suspension clamp according to EN 61284, 11.4.
The fittings shall not damage the covering and shall be designed to prevent the ingress of
moisture during service.
NOTE “shall not damage the covering” means no damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of
the covering.
The suspension clamps shall be so designed that the effects of vibration, both on the covered
conductor and on the clamps themselves, are minimised. The clamps shall be designed to
avoid localized pressure or damage to the covered conductor.
If needed the suspension clamps shall have sufficient current carrying capability to avoid
damage by fault currents.
The wear resistance of the articulation assembly shall be sufficient to prevent deterioration in
service.
Connectors shall be capable of carrying the load current, and fault current if any.
These protection devices are designed to protect insulator sets and covered conductors
against damage caused by power arcs (arcing horns, arcing rings).
This device shall be delivered with an installation instruction. It shall include the description of
the conditions for installation of arc protection system in order this whole installation
withstands the arc power test at 1 kA and 10 kA.
The arc protective devices shall withstand a mechanical load in order to support the
installation strengths.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 10 –
The earth parking device shall be capable of carrying the short circuit current. The maximum
short circuit current shall be 10 kA for 1 s.
These fittings shall withstand a mechanical load in order to support the installation strengths.
4.2.6 Joint
The joint shall be suitable for the covered conductor for which they are designed.
The joint shall have the same basic insulation properties as the conductor covering. In this
case, the test shall by carried out according to EN 50397-1, Table 2, ref. 1.2 “High voltage
test”. The conductor shall have a sufficient length so that the joint is immersed and the test
duration shall be same as for sample test.
4.3 Marking
NOTE Other specific markings should be agreed between customer and manufacturer.
5 Quality assurance
A quality assurance programme taking into account the requirements of this standard can be
used by agreement between the purchaser and the supplier to verify the quality of the fittings
during the manufacturing process.
NOTE Detailed information on the use of quality assurance is given in EN ISO 9000, and other standards in the
same series.
6.1.1 General
Type tests are intended to establish design characteristics. They are normally only made once
and repeated only when the design or the material of the fitting is changed. The results of
type tests are recorded as evidence of compliance with design requirements.
6.1.2 Application
6.2.1 General
Sample tests are intended to verify the quality of materials and workmanship.
6.2.2 Application
Overhead line fittings shall be subjected to sample tests as listed in Table A.1. The samples
to be tested shall be selected at random from the lot offered for acceptance. The purchaser
has the right to make the selection.
Unless otherwise agreed between purchaser and supplier, the sampling plan procedures
according to ISO 2859-1, ISO 2859-2 (inspection by attributes) and to ISO 3951 (inspection
by variables) shall be applied.
For each sample test, the type of inspection (by attributes or by variables) and the detailed
procedures (inspection level, acceptable quality level, single, double or multiple sampling,
etc.) shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier (see example in Annex B for inspection
by attributes, and Annex C for inspection by variables).
NOTE Sampling inspection by variables is an acceptance sampling procedure to be used in place of inspection
by attributes when it is more appropriate to measure on some continuous scale the characteristic(s) under
consideration. In the case of failure load tests and similar expensive tests, better discrimination between
acceptable quality and objective quality is available with acceptance sampling by variables than by attributes for
the same sample size.
The purpose of the sampling process may also be important in the choice between a variables or attributes plan.
For example, a purchaser may choose to use an attributes acceptance sampling plan to ensure that parts in a
shipment lot are within a required dimensional tolerance; the manufacturer may make measurements under a
variables sampling plan of the same dimensions because he is concerned with gradual trends or changes which
may affect his ability to provide shipment lots which meet the AQL.
6.3.1 General
Routine tests are intended to prove conformance of fittings to specific requirements and are
made on every fitting. The tests shall not damage the fitting.
The compliance with the requirements according to Clause 4 shall be established by the tests
listed in Table 1. The tests are only for fittings which are clamping the conductor over the
covering.
7 Tests
Three samples of fittings or clamps shall be tested, except when the specific subclause
requires another number.
Annex A provides a table of the general tests required for each product.
NOTE This clause defines only the tests for fittings used over the covering.
This test shall include visual examination to ascertain conformity of the fittings, in all essential
respects, with the contract drawings. Deviations from the drawings shall be subject to an
agreement between supplier and purchaser and shall be appropriately documented as an
agreed concession.
These tests shall include verification of dimensions, to ensure that fittings are within the
dimensional tolerances stated on contract drawings. The purchaser may choose to witness
the measurement of selected dimensions or may inspect the supplier's documentation when
this is available. Measuring devices/gauges shall be selected with regard to the required
precision and accuracy. Documentary evidence of calibration of such devices shall be
provided on request.
Routine tests shall include a specified level of dimensional checking when required by the
contract quality plan.
NOTE Particular attention should be given to those dimensions potentially affecting fitting interchange ability (for
example ball and socket couplings (HD 474); clevis and tongue couplings (IEC 60471)) or mechanical and/or
electrical performance.
7.3.1 Principle
This test ensures that the marking of accessories is readable and durable.
7.3.3 Procedure
The marking shall be rubbed by hand for 15 s with a piece of cloth soaked with water and
again for 15 s with a piece of cloth soaked with petroleum spirit.
NOTE Petroleum spirit is defined as the aliphatic solvent hexane with a content of aromatics of maximum 0,1 %
by volume, a kauri-butanol value of 29, initial boiling point of 65 °C, a dry point of 69 °C and a specific gravity of
0,68 g/cm³.
7.3.4 Requirement
The marking shall remain clear and allow the accessory to be easily identified.
- type tests: mechanical type tests shall be carried out on three fittings. All fittings shall
pass the test;
- sample tests: mechanical sample tests shall be carried out according to the procedures in
EN 61284, 6.2.3.
– 13 – EN 50397-2:2009
7.4.1 Damage and failure load test for tension and suspension clamps
(without helical fittings)
7.4.1.1 Principle
This test shall be carried out to ensure that the clamps are capable of sustaining loads
without permanent deformation, which may affect the proper function of the clamp.
The test shall be carried out as in Figures 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d or according to an equivalent
scheme. Armour rods shall be applied to the covered conductor if any are used in service.
7.4.1.3 Procedure
The number of fittings tested, the method for increasing the load during the test and the
method for evaluating the test results shall be those stated in EN 61284, 11.3.1. The angle α
and the angle β, at the minimum damage load shall be the maximum design angle specified
by the supplier.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 14 –
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
Figure 1d
Key
1 Specified mechanical minimum damage load (T)
2 Load (R)
3 Side Load (R2)
4 Liftload (R1)
α Max. design angle
β Max. design angle
Regarding damage load, the test is passed if no permanent deformation, which can affect the
proper function of the fitting, occurs at or below the specified mechanical minimum damage
load.
7.4.2.1 Principle
This test shall be carried out at ambient temperature to ensure that if high loads are applied to
the covered conductor the suspension clamp will not allow the conductor to slip through the
clamp below specified load.
The covered conductor used in the test shall be the one for which the clamp is intended. The
test shall be carried out on two samples using one of the three arrangements shown in
Figure 2 depending on design of the test sample as follows (see Figures 2a, 2b and 2c).
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
Figure 2c
Key
1 Static counter load, (G)
2 Applied load, (T)
7.4.2.3 Procedure
a) Assemble the covered conductor section between the extremities of a tension machine
and subject it to a load T (15 % of the MBL). If the maximum bending load of the insulator
or insulator pin is less than the values T, this bending load value shall be applied.
b) Assemble the clamp on the covered conductor whilst it is under the load T, and tighten the
nuts or bolts with the torque specified by the supplier, if any.
c) Reduce the load T applied to the conductor to zero, and detach the conductor from one
end of the tension machine.
e) Apply a load to 20 % of the specified minimum slip load (SMSL), to whole unit, with a
displacement transducer fitted in such a way that the movement of the conductor relative
to the fitting can be detected. In the absence of a transducer, a mark shall be made on the
conductor to detect the above mentioned movement.
f) Gradually increase the load until it reaches minimum slip load. This load shall be
maintained for 60 s.
g) Gradually increase the load until slippage of the conductor inside the clamps occurs.
h) For helical fittings (side ties) and other accessories a constant counter load G can be
applied if needed to ensure the proper function of the fitting. This force G shall be agreed
between customer and supplier. If counter load is used, the minimum slip load is the
difference of applied load T and counter load G.
No slippage greater than 5 mm shall occur at or below the specified minimum slip load. The
fitting shall still be securely attached to the insulator despite any deformation that may take
place.
The fitting shall be removed and the covering of the conductor examined. No tearing of the
covering should have occurred.
7.4.3.1 Principle
The suspension clamp shall be subjected to a steady load G and the part of the conductor
close to the clamp is held at low temperature. The test shall be carried out in order to ensure
that the conductor does not slip through the clamp and the clamp and the conductor remain
undamaged.
This test shall also verify that all plastic parts of fittings are able to withstand the stress during
assembling and operation at low temperature.
The covered conductor used in the test shall be the one for which the clamp is intended. The
test shall be carried out as follows (see Figure 3).
– 17 – EN 50397-2:2009
Figure 3a
Figure 3b
Key
1 Low temperature zone
2 Marking
3 Static counter load (G)
4 Applied load (T)
7.4.3.3 Procedure
a) The suspension clamp and a 300 mm section of the conductor shall be cooled to
(-10 ± 3) °C for 24 h before assembling at this temperature.
c) Then the test shall be carried out according to 7.4.2.3, items a) to h).
NOTE 2 For application in areas of very low temperature, the use of -10 °C may be inadequate. In such cases,
upon agreement between manufacturer and customer, the product may be tested using a lower temperature. The
chosen temperature shall be recorded in the test report.
No slippage greater than 5 mm shall occur at or below the specified minimum slip load; at the
end of the test the fitting shall still be securely attached to the insulator despite any
deformation that may take place.
The fitting shall be removed and the covering of the conductor examined. No tearing of the
covering should have occurred.
For non metallic ties, special test requirements like unbalanced shock load may be done but
they shall be agreed between customer and supplier.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 18 –
This is a heat cycle test done with the maximum operating temperature of the conductor (see
EN 50397-1, Table 1).
7.4.4.1 Principle
The suspension clamp shall be subjected to mechanical loads at high temperature to ensure
that they are capable of sustaining loads likely to be encountered in service without being
damaged or damaging the conductor.
The specified minimum slippage load shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier.
The covered conductor used in the test shall be the one for which the clamp is intended. The
test shall be carried out as follows.
b) A constant mechanical load shall be maintained on the clamps throughout the test. This
load shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier.
c) Tails approximately 500 mm long shall remain outside the two clamps for connection to a
current source.
7.4.4.3 Procedure
a) This load shall be stabilised at ± 10 %, and shall be maintained for a period of at least 6 h.
c) The test assembly shall undergo 100 heat cycles at a rate of max four cycles per day.
No damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of the suspension clamp or the
conductor.
7.4.5 Lift load and side load test for suspension clamp at ambient temperature
7.4.5.1 Principle
This test shall be carried out to ensure that the suspension clamp manage to hold the
conductor in lift and side forces according to Table 1 without destroying the covering or
slipping of the insulator.
The covered conductor used in the test shall be the one for which the clamp is intended. The
test shall be carried out on two samples, as follows (see Figure 4a or 4b).
25 ≤ S ≤ 35 1 400
35 < S ≤ 70 3 300
Key
1 Test load (T)
2 Lift load force (R1)
3 Side load force according to Table 1 (R2)
α Lift angle
β Side angle
7.4.5.3 Procedure
a) For lift load test: The covered conductor is assembled between the extremities of a tensile
machine. Then a tensile load is applied in order that the lift load R1 reaches 2 000 N. The
angle α shall be less than 15°.
b) For side load test: The covered conductor is assembled between the extremities of a
tensile machine. Then a tensile load is applied in order that the side load R2 reaches the
minimum value given in Table 1. The angle β shall be less than 15°.
c) Assemble the clamp on the covered conductor whilst it is under the tensile load, and
tighten the nuts or bolts with the torque specified by the supplier, if any.
d) Gradually increase the load until it reaches specified minimum lift or side load. This load
shall be maintained for 60 s.
– 21 – EN 50397-2:2009
No damage shall occur at or below the specified minimum lift or side load. The fitting shall still
be securely attached to the insulator despite any deformation that may take place.
The fitting shall be removed and the covering of the conductor examined. No tearing of the
covering should have occurred.
7.4.6.1 Principle
The suspension clamp shall be subjected to mechanical loads at high temperature to ensure
that they are capable of sustaining loads likely to be encountered in service without being
damaged or damaging the conductor.
The covered conductor used in the test shall be the one for which the fitting is intended. The
test shall be carried out as follows:
a) the suspension clamp shall be installed in a test rig as shown in Figure 4b using the
maximum angle for which the clamp is designed;
7.4.6.3 Procedure
a) This load shall be stabilised at the specified value with a tolerance of ± 10 % and shall be
maintained for a period of at least 6 h.
c) The test assembly shall undergo 100 heat cycles at a rate of max. 4 cycles per day.
No damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of the fitting.
No damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of the covering.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 22 –
7.4.7.1 Principle
Two tension clamps shall be subjected to high mechanical loads at ambient temperature to
ensure that they are capable of sustaining loads likely to be encountered in service without
being damaged or damaging the conductor.
Two tension clamps shall be assembled on to the covered conductor upon the covering in
accordance with the manufacturing instructions and fitted into a tensile test machine as shown
in Figure 5: the length of the tails on the unloaded side of the clamp shall be at minimum of
500 mm.
The distance between the two clamps shall be at minimum of 100 x d. d is the diameter of the
covered conductor including covering.
Key
1 Min.100 x d
2 Length of the tail 500 mm
7.4.7.3 Procedure
The load shall be increased to 20 % of the SMFL. Then, the conductor shall be marked where
it exits from the clamps.
The load shall be gradually increased until it reaches 60 % of the SMFL of the assembly. The
load shall be maintained to this value for a time of 60 s.
Without any subsequent adjustment of the fitting, the load shall be steadily increased in not
less than 30 s until the SMFL is reached. Such load shall be kept constant for 60 s at least.
Without any subsequent adjustments of the fitting, the load shall be steadily increased until
failure occurs. The failure load shall be recorded.
The test is passed if the movement of the conductor relative to the clamp is less than 3 mm
and no failure of the clamp or covered conductor occurs below the SMFL, where
SMFL= 0,80 x MBL.
NOTE For this test the SMFL refers to the grip of the clamp and the friction between covering of the conductor
and the metallic surface of the conductor.
– 23 – EN 50397-2:2009
7.4.8.1 Principle
The tension clamp shall be subjected to a steady load whilst at least one tension clamp and
the part of a cable close to the clamp are held at low temperature. The test shall be carried
out in order to ensure that the covered conductor does not slip through the clamp and that the
clamp remains undamaged.
Two tension clamps shall be assembled on to the covered conductor upon the covering in
accordance with the manufacturing instructions and fitted into a tensile testing machine as
shown in Figure 5. The fitting shall be installed in a cold temperature zone as shown in
Figure 6: the length of the tails on the unloaded side of the clamp shall be at minimum of
500 mm.
Key
1 300 mm
2 Length of the tail 500 mm
3 Low temperature zone
7.4.8.3 Procedure
The distance between the two clamps shall be at minimum of 100 x d, where d is the diameter
of the covered conductor including covering.
The test shall be carried out with a static load of 0,7 x MBL.
At least one tension clamp and a 300 mm section of the conductor shall be cooled to
(-10 ± 3) °C for 1 h during which time a tensile load is maintained at ± 10 %. See Figure 5 and
Figure 6.
NOTE For application in areas of very low temperature, the use of -10 °C may be inadequate. In such cases,
upon agreement between manufacturer and customer, the product may be tested using a lower temperature. The
chosen temperature shall be recorded in the test report.
Before starting the 24 h period the conductor shall be marked at the point where it exits the
tension clamp. These marks shall be used for reference purposes to measure slippage.
Marking shall be applied of a load to 20 % of the specified minimum slip load.
After assembling of the covered conductor section between the extremities of a tension
machine, the conductor shall be subjected to a load, which is agreed between purchaser and
supplier.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 24 –
To assemble the clamp on the covered conductor, the nuts or bolts shall be tightened with the
torque specified by the supplier.
The tension clamp shall be maintained at the specified minimum slip load agreed between the
purchaser and supplier for 24 h at (-10 ± 3) °C.
After 24 h a gradual increase of the load until slippage of the conductor inside the tension
clamp occurs.
No slippage more than 3 mm shall occur at or below the specified minimum slip load. No
damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of the tension clamp.
This is a heat cycle test done with the maximum operating temperature of the conductor (see
EN 50397-1, Table 1).
7.4.9.1 Principle
The tension clamp shall be subjected to mechanical loads at high temperature to ensure that
they are capable of sustaining loads likely to be encountered in service without being
damaged or damaging the conductor.
The specified minimum slippage load shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier.
The covered conductor used in the test shall be the one for which the clamp is intended. The
test shall be carried out as follows:
b) a constant mechanical load shall be maintained on the clamps throughout the test. This
load shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier;
c) tails approximately 500 mm long shall remain outside the two clamps for connection to a
current source
7.4.9.3 Procedure
a) The load shall be stabilised at ± 10 %, and shall be maintained for a period of at least 6 h
at ambient temperature.
c) The test assembly shall undergo 100 heat cycles at a rate of maximum four cycles per
day.
No damage shall occur which could affect the correct function of the tension clamp or the
conductor.
7.4.10.1.1 Principle
This test shall be used for both tension and suspension clamp bolts.
This test shall be carried out to ensure that nuts and bolts used to apply the pressure needed
to clamp the covered conductor are not damaged, and do not damage the clamp during use.
The clamp shall be installed on to the covered conductor for which the clamp is designed.
The bolts and/or nuts shall be tightened to the installation torque specified by the
manufacturer.
7.4.10.1.3 Procedure
The torque shall be increased to 1,1 x the specified installation torque value.
The bolts and/or nuts shall then be slackened until they exert no pressure on the conductor
bundle and the clamp becomes loose enough to remove.
NOTE The clamp may be left in place during this test as long as the loosening process is to such an extent that
the clamp could be removed if required.
The torque shall then be increased until damage occurs. Tightening torque and damage shall
be recorded.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 26 –
No damage shall occur, during the tightening and loosening process which could affect the
correct function of the clamp or its nuts.
7.4.10.2.1 Principle
To ensure that when tightened, the bolts used to make the electrical connection and provide
mechanical security, do not cause the IPC to fail mechanically during installation.
The conductor on to which the IPC is to be installed shall be tensioned to 20 % of the MBL.
The IPCs shall be installed onto conductors for which it is designed. Where the IPC is
designed to accept more than one size of conductor, two samples shall be tested in each of
the following conductor combinations:
Main Branch
Max. Max.
Min. Min.
Min. Max.
7.4.10.2.3 Procedure
The connectors shall be tightened, to the maximum torque specified by the manufacturer, plus
20 %.
The tightening shall be carried out at a rate of approximately 1 full turn in 8 s or at the rate
specified in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
7.4.11.1 Principle
To ensure that the shear head mechanism functions correctly within the specified torque
range.
NOTE For application in areas of very low temperature, the use of -10 °C may be inadequate. In such cases,
upon agreement between manufacturer and customer, the product may be tested using a lower temperature. The
chosen temperature shall be recorded in the test report.
Main Branch
Min. Min.
Max. Max.
In case of arc protection device or earth parking device, the branch conductor shall be
replaced by the rod.
7.4.11.3 Procedure
The connector assemblies shall be pre-conditioned until they reach the test temperature. The
temperature shall be maintained for a minimum of 15 min.
The shear head shall then be tightened, in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation
instructions, until the head shears. This torque shall be recorded.
The test shall be repeated for the three samples at each of the specified temperatures and
cross section combination.
For each of the test temperatures and cross section combination, the torque at which the
shear head shears, shall be within the tolerances of the manufacturer’s specified torque.
7.4.12.1 Principle
This test ensures that the mechanical performance of the conductor is not impaired as a
consequence of installation of the connector.
Two specimens shall be tested. Where the connector is designed to accept more than one
size of conductor, two specimens shall be tested in each of the following conductor
combinations:
Main Branch
Max. Max.
Min. Max.
Min. Min.
In case of arc protection device or earth parking device, the branch conductor shall be
replaced by the rod.
The conductor, on which the connector will be tested, shall be tensioned to between 10 % and
20 % of the MBL.
7.4.12.3 Procedure
The connector shall be tightened to the manufacturer’s specified maximum torque when the
connector is designed with a shear head, or 1,1 x the manufacturer’s specified nominal torque
when the connector is designed without a shear head.
The connectors shall be applied to the main conductor and the connector shall be tensioned
until it reaches 90 % of the MBL.
The conductor shall maintain the test for one minute without any failure or any damage that
would prevent the correct function of the conductor.
7.4.13.1 Principle
To ensure that the connector provides mechanical security of the branch conductor.
Two specimens shall be tested. Where the connector is designed to accept more than one
size of conductor, two specimens shall be tested in each of the following conductor
combinations:
Main Branch
Max. Max.
Min. Min.
The branch connector shall be positioned and then installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s instruction.
– 29 – EN 50397-2:2009
Key
1 Axial load of 1 kN or 10 % of SMFL whichever less
2 Branch
3 IPC installed accordance with manufacturer’s rec.
4 Main secured mechanical
7.4.13.3 Procedure
The conductor shall be marked at the connector so that any slippage during the test can be
measured.
A tensile load shall be applied approximately axially between the branch conductor and the
opposing main conductor, at a rate between 100 N/min and 500 N/min. This load shall be
1 kN or 10 % of SMFL, whichever is less.
The conductor shall maintain the test for one minute without failure or any damage that would
prevent the correct function of the cable.
7.4.14.1 Principle
To ensure electrical contact is established when the IPC is applied in cold conditions.
Two samples shall be tested. Where the IPC is designed to accept more than one size of
conductor, two samples shall be tested in each of the following conductor combinations:
Main Branch
Max. Max.
Min. Min.
Min. Max.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 30 –
7.4.14.3 Procedure
The connectors and conductor shall be further pre-conditioned until they reach the test
temperature of (-10 ± 3) °C, before they are assembled.
NOTE For application in areas of very low temperature, the use of -10 °C may be inadequate. In such cases,
upon agreement between manufacturer and customer, the product may be tested using a lower temperature. The
chosen temperature shall be recorded in the test report.
Electrical continuity shall be measured between the main and branch cables.
The IPC shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions using a torque
meter.
Alternatively the assembly can be removed from the cold chamber and the torque applied
outside. In this case the temperature of the connector and the core shall be monitored and the
torque applied within the temperature limits defined above. This temperature shall be within
these limits once contact is made.
The tightening shall be carried out at a rate of approximately 1 full turn in 8 s or at the rate
specified in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
NOTE 1 Initial tightening may be carried out without the use of tools until the nut, or bolt, cannot be further
tightened using the fingers and thumb or one hand.
NOTE 2 Accuracy of torque meters is usually guaranteed at positive temperature ranges. Where the torque is
measured within the cold chamber the accuracy of the torque meter may not be guaranteed.
Electrical continuity shall be achieved at a torque value less, or equal to, 70 % of the
manufacturer’s specified minimum installation torque.
7.4.15.1 Principle
The earth rod shall withstand the applied forces during installation of earthing links and the
weight of these links. So this test is intended to check if the mechanical properties of the
clamps are able to withstand to the expected forces, and if conductor is not damaged by the
installation as well that by the use of this earthing point.
The arrangement is shown in Figure 8. The tension of the conductor during the test shall be
35 N/mm². The total length of the conductor shall be at least 2 m and the EPD shall be fitted
at 1 m from one end. The EPD shall be tightened at the nominal torque given by the
manufacturer.
7.4.15.3 Procedure
The electrical resistance between the EPD and the conductor shall be measured for each
clamp before and after the mechanical test. The measurement points shall be the same
before and after the test.
– 31 – EN 50397-2:2009
The EPD shall be subjected, first, to a horizontal force (Fh) parallel to the axis of the cable of
300 N.
For the last step EPD shall be subjected to a torque moment (M) of 36 Nm applied on the bail
around a vertical axis.
For each step, the loads are gradually applied until the rated value, maintained for 15 s and
then released.
At the end of the test no visible displacement or damage shall be observed. The change of
the electrical resistance shall be less than 20 %. The breaking value of the main conductor
shall be at least 90 % of the MBL.
Key
1 Torque moment
2 Vertical force
3 Horizontal force
7.5.1 Principle
If metallic parts of the clamps are hot dip galvanized, type and sample tests shall include hot
dip galvanizing tests to ensure that galvanizing coatings comply with the acceptance criteria
as specified in EN ISO 1461.
7.6.1 Principle
The covered conductor used in testing shall be immersed in water together with the fittings in
order to ensure that no water can penetrate the covering. This test shall be made with
non-water-blocked conductors.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 32 –
The connector or other piercing shall be assembled on the covered conductor according to
the supplier’s instruction and immersed in water (see Figure 9). The test shall be carried out
in the following conductor combination:
Main Branch
Min. Min.
Max. Min.
7.6.3 Procedure
The conductor and the mounted fitting shall be immersed in water 200 mm depth and a length
of 300 mm to the wall of the container for 48 h.
No water shall penetrate the conductor and shall move through the conductor, see Figure 9.
Key
1 Main conductor
2 Piercing accessory
3 Checkpoint about water on main or tap
4 Tap conductor with end cap or anchor or earthing rod
This test shall be carried out according to the procedures of EN 50483-5 for class B
connectors, but with the following changes:
- the conductors are described in EN 50397-1;
- the temperature during the heat cycles shall be according to the maximum operating
temperatures given in EN 50397-1.
7.8.1 Principle
Arc protection device (APD) and earth parking device (EPD) shall be able to carry the short
circuit current. This test is intended to check the current capability of the connectors tightened
on steel rods.
– 33 – EN 50397-2:2009
The test arrangement is shown in Figure 10. For this test, the arc horn or the earthing rod will
be replaced by a straight piece of same cross-section and shape and material than the horn
or rod. The length of this test piece will be twice the one of the original horn or rod.
7.8.3 Procedure
Two devices equipped of the test piece are tightened on a cable having the maximum
cross-section for which the connectors are designed.
The electric resistances are measured before and after over-current according to the
modalities described in (see electrical ageing test in 7.7).
The change of resistance before and after short circuit shall be less than 50 %. No visible
damage shall be observed on the connector or on the cable.
Key
1 Resistance measurement
2 Double rod or horn
3 Resistance measurement
4 Conductor of the max cross section
7.9.1 Principle
The arc protection system shall be subjected to a power arc test circuit in order to ensure that
they are capable of sustaining arcs without damaging of the conductor wires.
The arc protection device shall be assembled on to covered conductor in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. One example is shown in Figure 11.
The arc horns and the bracket shall be connected to each other with a wire having
approximately diameter of 1 mm.
The accessories used in the test shall be agreed between the supplier and the purchaser and
they shall be installed as closely as possible to the service conditions.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 34 –
Key
1 Arc protection device
2 1 mm wire to initiate short circuit
Figure 11 - Example of power arc test arrangement for arc protection system
7.9.3 Procedure
Two tests shall be done; one test with a rate of 1 kA and one with a rate of 10 kA. Duration of
the short circuit shall be 1 s. The no-load voltage shall be between 7 kV and 10 kV.
In order to meet the acceptance criteria of the type tests at least one of the three corrosion
tests (detailed in 7.10.1) and one of two climatic tests (detailed in 7.10.2) shall be carried out.
The choice of the test shall be agreed between the manufacturer and the customer.
• the samples shall be installed so that they are positioned in a manner, which is as close as
possible to the orientation that would be expected in normal operation.
Visual inspection shall be carried out and there shall be no significant trace of red rust.
NOTE Significant rusting would constitute more than 10% of the exposed surface area of the metallic parts.
No deterioration of the clamps shall occur which would impair the normal function of the
clamp.
Tension clamps shall meet the acceptance criteria of the mechanical test in 7.4.1.
Suspension clamps shall meet the acceptance criteria of the mechanical test in 7.4.1.
Visual inspection shall be carried out and there shall be no significant trace of red rust.
NOTE Significant rusting would constitute more than 10 % of the exposed surface area of the metallic parts.
No deterioration of the clamps shall occur which would impair the normal function of the
clamp.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 36 –
Tension clamps shall meet the acceptance criteria of the mechanical test in 7.4.1.
Suspension clamps shall meet the acceptance criteria of the mechanical test in 7.4.1.
Visual inspection shall be carried out to determine that there has been no degradation of the
organic parts.
No deterioration of the clamps shall occur which would impair the normal function of the
clamp.
Tension clamps shall meet the acceptance criteria of the mechanical test in 7.4.1.
Suspension clamps shall meet the acceptance criteria of the mechanical test in 7.4.1.
The environmental tests shall be completed on all connectors. In this clause, connector
means also arc protection device and earth parking device.
7.11.1.1 Principle
This test shall ensure that the IPC is not affected in corrosive atmospheres.
– 37 – EN 50397-2:2009
Two samples shall be tested in accordance with the following conductor combination:
Main Branch
Min. Min.
7.11.1.3 Procedure
The connector shall be placed in the middle of the main core of length 0,5 m to 1,5 m. It shall
be tightened to the minimum torque specified by the manufacturer. The tightening shall be
carried out at a rate of approximately 1 full turn in 8 s or at the rate specified in the
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Method 1: Combined test. There shall be 4 cycles of 14 days. This 14-day cycle consists of
7 days of salt mist and 7 days in SO 2 atmosphere as defined in EN 50483-6, 8.4.1
and 8.4.2.
Visual inspection shall be carried out and there shall be no significant trace of red rust.
NOTE Significant rusting would constitute more than 10 % of the exposed surface area of the metallic parts.
No deterioration of the connectors shall occur which would impair their normal function.
For a connector designed with a shear-head it shall be able to be removed with a torque
below, or equal to, the manufacturer’s specified maximum torque.
For a connector designed without a shear-head it shall be able to be removed with a torque
below or equal to 1,1 x the manufacturer’s specified nominal torque.
7.11.2.1 Principle
This test shall ensure that the connector is not affected by climatic conditions.
EN 50397-2:2009 – 38 –
Two samples shall be tested. Where the IPC is designed to accept more than one size of
conductor, two samples shall be tested in each of the following conductor combinations:
Main Branch
Min. Min.
Max. Min.
In case of arc protection device or earth parking device, the branch conductor shall be
replaced by the rod.
7.11.2.3 Procedure
NOTE The temperature may be lower if agreed between the customer and the manufacturer.
After the climatic ageing cycles and after a period of at least 24 h but not exceeding 72 h at
the laboratory atmosphere, the following tests shall be carried out.
The connector shall meet the acceptance criteria of the water tightness test in 7.8 but after an
immersion time limited to 12 h.
Visual inspection shall be carried out to determine that there has been no degradation of the
organic parts.
The sample’s identification marking shall be legible when examined with normal or corrected
vision, without magnification.
Annex A
(normative)
Type tests, sample tests and routine tests
Table A.1
Tension fittings Suspension fittings Connectors Arc protection device Earth parking device
Clause
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
tests
Type
Type
Type
Type
Type
Sample
Sample
Sample
Sample
Sample
Routine
Routine
Routine
Routine
Routine
a: Inspection by attributes only b: By agreement between the purchaser and supplier c: Only in connection with complete insulator set
EN 50397-2:2009 – 40 –
Annex B
(informative)
An example of the procedure for inspection by attributes agreed between purchaser and
supplier is as follows:
Annex C
(informative)
An example of the procedure for inspection by variables agreed between purchaser and
supplier is as follows:
Annex D
(normative)
NOTE If it affects harmonization, it forms part of the European Standard / Harmonization Document.
For the countries in which the relevant special national conditions apply these provisions are
normative, for other countries they are informative.
Due to climate conditions, the type tests at low temperature have to be performed at
-25 °C instead of -10 °C.
__________
– 43 – EN 50397-2:2009
Bibliography
HD 474 Dimensions of ball and socket couplings of string insulator units (IEC 60120)
EN ISO 9000 Quality management systems - Fundamentals and vocabulary (ISO 9000)
IEC 60471 Dimensions of clevis and tongue couplings of string insulator units