IEC 61442-2023 PDF

Full title and description

IEC 61442:2023 — Test methods for accessories for power cables with rated voltages from 6 kV (Um = 7,2 kV) up to 30 kV (Um = 36 kV). This international standard specifies type-test methods applicable to accessories used on power cables (extruded and paper‑insulated) within the stated voltage ranges.

Abstract

IEC 61442:2023 (Edition 3.0) consolidates and updates the standardised laboratory and type test procedures for cable accessories used on medium‑voltage power cables. It defines electrical, mechanical and environmental test methods to verify performance and compatibility with cable types referenced in IEC 60502‑2 and IEC 60055‑1. The document is published with a redline (RLV) showing changes from the previous edition.

General information

• Status: Current / Published international standard.
• Publication date: 19 October 2023.
• Publisher: International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), TC 20 (Electric cables).
• ICS / categories: 19.080; 29.060.20.
• Edition / version: Edition 3.0 (2023).
• Number of pages: 69 pages.

Key bibliographic and metadata details as published by the IEC (including edition, ICS codes and page count).

Scope

The standard specifies test methods for type testing accessories for power cables with rated voltages from 3,6/6 (7,2) kV up to 18/30 (36) kV (presented as accessories for rated voltages from 6 kV up to 30 kV with corresponding Um values). The test procedures apply to accessories for both extruded‑insulation cables and paper‑insulated (oil‑impregnated) cables, referencing relevant cable construction standards.

Key topics and requirements

• Defined electrical type tests for dielectric strength, partial discharge and impulse withstand.
• Mechanical tests for tensile, compressive and sealing performance of accessory assemblies.
• Environmental and ageing tests (thermal cycling, humidity, corrosion/metallic parts where applicable).
• Test setups and measurement methods tailored to accessories for extruded and paper‑insulated cables in the specified voltage ranges.
• Requirements and guidance for reporting test results and for redline/comparison to previous edition.

Typical use and users

Engineers and test laboratories performing type approval and qualification of cable terminations, joints, separable connectors and related accessories; manufacturers of cable accessories; utilities and asset owners validating product compatibility with installed cable systems; standards committees and conformity assessment bodies. The standard is used to support product development, type testing and compliance demonstration.

Related standards

IEC 61442:2023 is intended to be used alongside cable construction and system standards such as IEC 60502‑2 (extruded power cables) and IEC 60055‑1 (paper‑insulated power cables). It replaces IEC 61442:2005 (second edition) and has been adopted into regional variants (for example EN/BSI national adoptions). Users should consult the referenced cable standards when applying the test methods.

Keywords

cable accessories; test methods; type tests; medium voltage; power cables; extruded insulation; paper‑insulated cables; terminations; joints; separable connectors.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: IEC 61442:2023 is an international standard that specifies laboratory and type test methods for accessories used on medium‑voltage power cables (roughly 6 kV up to 30 kV rated voltage classes, with corresponding Um values).

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers electrical, mechanical and environmental test procedures to verify the performance, safety and compatibility of cable accessories (terminations, joints, connectors) for extruded and paper‑insulated power cables, and includes editorial/redline material showing changes from the prior edition.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Test laboratories, cable‑accessory manufacturers, utility testing teams, product certification bodies and standards committees use this standard for type testing, product approval and conformity assessment.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: IEC 61442:2023 is the current (third) edition, published in October 2023, and it supersedes the 2005 edition. Users should adopt the 2023 edition for all new type‑testing and compliance activities.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of the IEC family of cable and testing standards (work of TC 20) and is intended to be used in conjunction with complementary standards such as IEC 60502‑2 and IEC 60055‑1; regional/adopted versions (EN/BSI/DIN) may exist for national application.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Cable accessories, type test, medium voltage, terminations, joints, extruded cable, paper‑insulated cable, electrical testing, mechanical testing, environmental testing.