Collection of SANS standards in electronic format (PDF)

1. Copyright

This standard is available to staff members of companies that have subscribed to the
complete collection of SANS standards in accordance with a formal copyright
agreement. This document may reside on a CENTRAL FILE SERVER or INTRANET
SYSTEM only. Unless specific permission has been granted, this document MAY NOT
be sent or given to staff members from other companies or organizations. Doing so
would constitute a VIOLATION of SABS copyright rules.

2. Indemnity

The South African Bureau of Standards accepts no liability for any damage whatsoever
than may result from the use of this material or the information contain therein,
irrespective of the cause and quantum thereof.

I agree with the above

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ICS 29.060.20
NRS 012:2002
ISBN 0-626-14121-4 First edition

Rationalized User Specification

Cable terminations and live conductors

within air-insulated enclosures
(insulation co-ordination) for rated a.c.
voltages of 7,2 kV and up to and
including 36 kV

Preferred requirements for applications in

the Electricity Supply Industry

N R S
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This Rationalized User Specification is

issued by the NRS Project
on behalf of the
User Group given in the foreword
and is not a standard as contemplated in the Standards Act, 1993 (Act 29 of 1993).

Rationalized user specifications allow user

organizations to define the performance and quality
requirements of relevant equipment.

Rationalized user specifications may, after a certain

application period, be introduced as national standards.

Amendments issued since publication

Amdt No. Date Text affected

Correspondence to be directed to Printed copies obtainable from

South African Bureau of Standards South African Bureau of Standards

(Electrotechnical Standards) Private Bag X191
Private Bag X191 Pretoria 0001
Pretoria 0001
Telephone: (012) 428-7911
Fax: (012) 344-1568
E-mail: sales@[Link]
Website: [Link]

COPYRIGHT RESERVED

Printed on behalf of the NRS Project in the Republic of South Africa

by the South African Bureau of Standards
1 Dr Lategan Road, Groenkloof, Pretoria
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1 NRS 012:2002

Contents
Page

Foreword........................................................................................................................... 2

Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 3

Key words ....................................................................................................................... 3

1 Scope ......................................................................................................................... 5

2 Normative references .................................................................................................... 6

3 Terms, and definitions .................................................................................................. 7

4 Requirements .............................................................................................................. 9

4.1 Rated insulation levels ........................................................................................... 9

4.2 Insulation co-ordination within air-filled enclosures .................................................... 9

4.2.1 Types of cable terminations and live conductors .......................................... 9

4.2.2 Creepage distances .................................................................................. 10
4.2.3 Clearances .............................................................................................. 10

4.3 Enclosures for cable terminations in air ................................................................... 12

4.3.1 Design considerations for cable termination enclosures ............................... 12

4.3.2 Bushings and post insulators .................................................................... 13
4.3.3 Mounting on equipment (self-contained cable termination enclosures) ........... 14
4.3.4 Earthing for cable termination enclosures ................................................... 14
4.3.5 Height of cable termination enclosures ....................................................... 15
4.3.6 Reduced height of cable termination enclosures .......................................... 15
4.3.7 Protection against corrosion ...................................................................... 16

4.4 Rating plate .......................................................................................................... 16

5 Tests .......................................................................................................................... 16

5.1 Type test requirements for enclosures .................................................................... 16

5.2 Type test requirements for cable terminations ......................................................... 17
5.3 Routine performance tests .................................................................................... 17
5.4 Post-installation tests ........................................................................................... 17
5.5 Tests on painted surfaces ..................................................................................... 17

Annex A (normative) Illustrations of enclosures and live conductors ..................................... 18

Annex B (informative) Guide to purchasers on preparing an enquiry ..................................... 26
Annex C (informative) Model form for schedules A and B .................................................... 28

Bibliography .................................................................................................................... 30
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NRS 012:2002 2

Foreword
This specification was prepared by a Working Group which comprised the following members:

G Whyte (Chairman) Eskom Distribution Technology

P O’Hallaron Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Council
V Medinski Cape Town Electricity
K Singh (Project Leader) NRS Project

A Manufacturers’ Interest Group (MIG) was consulted on the contents of this specification. The MIG
comprised the following members:

F Bolota Alstom Switchgear

M Bottom Reyrolle Switchgear
J Erwee Bri Tech
R Hardie Abedare Cables
M Jackson Alstom Switchgear
J Koekemoer Raytech
R Melaia ABB Motors
T Nortje Raytecj
K Richardson Jointmaster
P Steyn Reyrolle Switchgear
J Swartz Hawker Siddeley
A van der Elst Schneider
N Vercuiel ABB Transformer
B Wagner 3 M Electrical
D Wood Alstom Large Machines

The Working Group was appointed by the Electricity Supply Liaison Committee (ESLC), which, at the
time of approval, comprised the following members:

R Wienand (Chairman) eThekwini Metropolitan Council, AMEU

M N Bailey Eskom Distribution Technology
A J Claasen SABS Electrical Engineering Standards
P Crowdy Eskom Distribution Technology
B de Jager Mangaung Electricity, AMEU
W Dykman City of Tshwane, AMEU
A H L Fortmann eKurhuleni, AMEU
P A Johnson Eskom Technology Standardization
D Michie Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Electricity, AMEU
S Moodley City Power Johannesburg, AMEU
R van der Riet City of Cape Town (Tygerberg Administration)
J S van Heerden SABS NEFTA

Annex A forms an integral part of this specification. Annexes B and C are for information only.

Recommendations for corrections, additions or deletions should be addressed to the NRS Project
Manager, c/o SABS, Private Bag X191, Pretoria, 0001.

Edition 1 of this specification cancels and replaces NRS 008:1991 and NRS 012:1999 (Interim).

ISBN 0-626-14121-4
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3 NRS 012:2002

Introduction
The requirements for termination of cables in compound or resin-filled boxes are well established in
other specifications, one important example being BS 2562, which, in addition, attempts to deal with
cables terminated in air but only at rated voltages of up to 3,6 kV.

This specification was prepared to establish design guidelines and uniform requirements for insulation
co-ordination within air-insulated enclosures. Although the focus of this specification is cable
terminations within air-insulated enclosures, it is applicable to any live conductors within air-insulated
enclosures, for example metal-clad and metal-enclosed switchgear.

This specification for air-insulated enclosures, for rated a.c. voltages of 7,2 kV and up to and including
36 kV, enables the purchasers to acquire the specified equipment, without the need for detailed and
extensive contract documents, most often as a part or feature of some other equipment, for example
switchgear or transformers.

The ESLC expresses the wish that, in the national interest and in support of government policy to
foster local manufacture and stimulate export, all supply authorities should adopt the text of this
specification insofar as their particular conditions will permit. Any differences between the
requirements of this specification and the purchaser's requirements should, as far as possible, be
clearly indicated in the schedules which may be completed using the draft schedules which are set
out in annex C to this specification and, where appropriate, be submitted for consideration in future
revisions of this specification.

Key words
Cable terminations; Live conductors; Air-insulated enclosures; Insulation co-ordination; Electricity
supply; Specifications.
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NRS 012:2002 4

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5 NRS 012:2002

SPECIFICATION

Cable terminations and live conductors within air-insulated enclosures

(insulation co-ordination) for rated a.c. voltages of 7,2 kV and up to and
including 36 kV

Preferred requirements for applications in the Electricity Supply Industry

1 Scope

1.1 This specification covers the requirements for enclosures for the termination of cables and
housing of live conductors in air, for use indoors or outdoors, at rated a.c. voltages of 7,2 kV and up to
and including 36 kV.

1.2 Detailed requirements for the design and construction of the enclosures are in general not
specified. It is expected that these will be covered by the requirements specified for the equipment
(e.g. the switchgear or transformer to which the enclosure is connected or of which the enclosure will
form part, where appropriate), or, alternatively, they will be left to the manufacturer. The parameters
and leading dimensions to be considered are, however, specified and may be applied to enclosures
which either form an integral part of major equipment or are similar to cable boxes as specified in
BS 2562.

1.3 In the case of cable termination enclosures associated with transformers, bushings constitute
the terminal fixing point for the cable. Where cables are terminated within switchgear enclosures, the
fixing point can be bushings, post insulators or connections to current transformers. In the case of
cable junction boxes, post insulators constitute the terminal fixing point for the cable.

1.4 The method of cable termination and terminal fixing cannot be ignored when determining the
requirements for cable termination enclosures. This specification deals with the requirements for the
following types of termination within enclosures:

a) Type 1 termination: air insulated (see 3.2.7);

b) Type 2 termination: shrouded (see 3.2.8);
c) Type 3 termination: unscreened separable connectors (see 3.2.9); and
d) Type 4 termination: dead break screened separable connectors (see 3.2.10).

1.5 Since the insulation co-ordination requirements for bare or insulated live conductors supported by
post insulators or other insulating materials within an enclosure are considered to be the same as
those for type 1 and type 2 terminations, this specification serves as a general design guide for air-
insulated enclosures.

1.6 The enclosures covered in this specification are not intended for use in hazardous atmospheres.

2 Normative references
The following documents contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions
of this specification. At the time of publication, the editions indicated were valid. All standards and
specifications are subject to revision, and parties to agreements based on this specification are
encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the documents listed
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NRS 012:2002 6

below. Information on currently valid national and international standards and specifications can be
obtained from the South African Bureau of Standards.

BS 2562:1979, Specification for cable boxes for transformers and reactors.

CENELEC HD 428.2.2 S1, Three-phase oil-immersed distribution transformers 50 Hz, from 50 kVA to
2 500 kVA with highest voltage for equipment not exceeding 36 kV — Part 2: Distribution
transformers with cable boxes on the high-voltage and/or low-voltage side — Section 2: Cable boxes
type 1 for use on distribution transformers meeting the requirements of HD 428.2.1 S1.

IEC 60050-441:1984, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary — Chapter 441: Switchgear,

controlgear and fuses.

IEC 60050-461:1984, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary — Chapter 461: Electric cables.

IEC 60055-2:1981, Paper-insulated metal-sheathed cables for rated voltages up to 18/30 kV (with
copper or aluminium conductors and excluding gas-pressure and oil-filled cables) — Part 2: General
and construction requirements. Amendment No. 1:1989.

IEC 60060-1:1989, High-voltage test techniques — Part 1: General definitions and test requirements.

IEC 60071-1:1993, Insulation co-ordination — Part 1: Definitions, principles and rules.

IEC 60071-2:1996, Insulation co-ordination — Part 2: Application guide.

EN 50180:1999, Bushings above 1 kV up to 36 kV and from 250 A to 3,15 kA for liquid filled
transformers.

EN 50181:1999, Plug-in type bushings above 1 kV up to 36 kV and from 250 A to 1,25 kA for
equipment other than liquid filled transformers.

SABS 97:2001, Electric cables — Impregnated paper-insulated metal-sheathed cables for rated
voltages from 3,3/3,3 kV up to 19/33 kV (excluding pressure assisted cables).

SABS 1186-1:1997, Symbolic safety signs — Part 1: Standard signs and general requirements.

SABS 1213:2001, Mechanical cable glands.

SABS 1222:1997, Enclosures for electrical equipment classified by IP code.

SABS 1339:2001, Electric cables — Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulated cables for rated
voltages from 3,8/6,6 kV to 19/33 kV.

SABS 1700:1996, Fasteners.

SABS IEC, 60137:1995, Insulated bushings for alternating voltages above 1000 V. Corrigendum No.
1:1996.

SABS IEC 60273:1990, Characteristics of indoor and outdoor post insulators for systems with nominal
voltages greater than 1 000 V.

SABS IEC 60298:1990, A.C. metal enclosed switchgear and controlgear for rated voltages above
1 kV and up to and including 52 kV.

SABS IEC 60815:1986, Guide for the selection of insulators in respect of polluted conditions.

SABS SM 147:1975, Resistance to scratching of paint films.

SABS SM 155:1975, Resistance to salt fog of paint films.
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7 NRS 012:2002

SABS SM 159:1975, Adhesion of paint and varnish films (cross-cut test).

NRS 053:2000, Accessories for medium-voltage power cables (3,8/6,6 kV to 19/33 kV).

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this specification, the following definitions apply:

NOTE All terms used in this specification are generally consistent with the definitions given in IEC 60050, chapters 441
and 461.

3.1 General

3.1.1 creepage distance: Shortest distance along the surface of an insulator between two
conductive parts.

3.1.2 impulse: An intentionally applied aperiodic transient voltage or current, which usually rises
rapidly to a peak and then falls more slowly to zero.

NOTE Such an impulse is in general well represented by the sum of two exponentials.

3.1.3 insulation level: A combination of the following:

a) the rated short duration power-frequency withstand voltage; and

b) the rated lightning impulse withstand voltage.

3.1.4 lightning impulse: An impulse that has a front duration of less than a few tenths of a
microsecond to less than one microsecond.

3.1.5 rated voltage: The highest r.m.s. phase-to-phase voltage of the supply for which the
equipment is designed.

3.2 Enclosures and components

3.2.1 air-filled enclosure: A metallic enclosure designed to protect the ends of the cables,
bushings, current transformers or live conductors.

3.2.2 air-insulated termination: An air-filled enclosure within which the cable cores are electrically
terminated by stress control appropriate to the cable design and voltage with air being the sole
insulation for the terminal connections.

3.2.3 bushing: A structure carrying one or more conductors through a partition (such as a wall or a
tank) and insulating it therefrom, including the means of attachment (flange or other fixing device) to
the partition.

3.2.4 explosion vent: A normally closed opening, which will rupture or open in the case of an
internal arc fault to release overpressure in a controlled manner to the atmosphere.

3.2.5 flange: The mounting plate connecting the enclosure to the equipment.

3.2.6 poles (number of): The (number of) conducting paths between the interior of the enclosure and
the electrical equipment (e.g. a transformer), which may be one, two, three or four, depending on the
number of bushings.

3.2.7 post insulator (in air-filled enclosures): A structure supporting one or more conductors, and
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NRS 012:2002 8

insulating it or them from the point on the enclosure to which the structure is attached, including the
means of attachment.

NOTE It follows that such an enclosure might be self-contained and removable; it might also be a compartment of the
connected equipment and therefore an integral feature of that equipment; it might also be a stand-alone item of equipment,
for example a junction box.

3.2.8 screened separable connector termination: An air-filled enclosure within which the cable
cores are terminated with screened separable connectors.

3.2.9 shrouded conductor: A conductor in an air-filled enclosure that has additional, unscreened,
local insulation enhancement.

3.2.10 shrouded insulation termination: An air-insulated termination that has additional,

unscreened, local insulation enhancement typically consisting of bushing protection or taping along
with a suitable heat shrink, cold shrink or slip-on cover at the terminal connections.

3.2.11 unscreened separable connector termination: An air-insulated termination that is fitted

with unscreened separable connectors.

3.3 Cable accessories

3.3.1 armour clamp: A fitting for gripping the armour of a cable at its termination to the gland body,
and capable of retaining the armour in position for fault currents within the design parameters.

3.3.2 cable gland: A device to seal and secure the sheath and to secure the armour of an electric
cable, where provided, to the terminal equipment, by means suitable for the type and description of
cable for which it is designed, including provision for making electrical connection to the sheath and to
the armour.

3.3.3 mechanical cable gland: A metallic bush that seals and secures the cable to the enclosure
by mechanical means.

3.3.4 separable connector: A fully insulated termination permitting the connection and
disconnection of a cable to other equipment.

3.3.5 screened separable connector: A separable connector, which has a fully screened external
surface.

3.3.6 unscreened separable connector: A separable connector, which does not have an external
screen.

3.3.7 wiping gland: A non-ferrous metal bush fitted to an enclosure to which the metal sheath of the
cable is plumbed, to which the armour is clamped and which seals and secures the cable to the
enclosure.
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9 NRS 012:2002

4 Requirements

4.1 Rated insulation levels

The rated insulation level of an enclosure on equipment shall be as specified in table 1. The standard
waveshape for the impulse test shall be 1,2/50 µs.

NOTE The front time is 1,2 µs and a time to half-value is 50 µs resulting in a 1,2/50 waveshape.

Table 1 — Rated insulation level of enclosures

1 2 3 4
Rated voltage Um Rated lightning impulse Rated short-duration power
withstand voltage frequency withstand voltage
r.m.s. Peak r.m.s.
List 2 List 3
7,2 60 75 20
12 75 95 28
24 125 150 50
36 170 200 70
NOTE 1 List 2 insulation levels apply in general to equipment in non-exposed installations (such as those
connected to cable networks).
NOTE 2 List 3 insulation levels apply in general to equipment in exposed installations.

4.2 Insulation co-ordination within air-filled enclosures

4.2.1 Types of cable termination and live conductor

[Link] Cable terminations shall be made onto the appropriate terminal fixing point for the cable using
one of the following arrangements:

a) Type 1 termination: lugs connected onto bushings or post insulators, uninsulated at the fixing point
(see figure A.4 in annex A);

NOTE A cable termination is required to provide suitable stress control below the terminal fixing point.

b) Type 2 termination: lugs connected onto bushings or post insulators with a shrouded insulation
termination (see figure A.5 in annex A);

NOTE A cable termination is required to provide suitable stress control below the terminal fixing point.

c) Type 3 termination: unscreened separable connector terminations (see figure A.6 in annex A);

NOTE A cable termination is required to provide suitable stress control below the separable connector.

d) Type 4 termination: dead break screened, separable connector terminations.

NOTE 1 Suitable for connection of cable with paper/extruded insulation that is circular (e.g. certain cables in
accordance with IEC 60055-2 or SABS 1339).

NOTE 2 Screened separable connectors cannot be used with impregnated-paper cables that have sector shaped
cores (e.g. certain cables in accordance with SABS 97).

NOTE 3 Stress control is provided within the separable connector.

[Link] The arrangement of live conductors within an air-filled enclosure may be categorized in a
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NRS 012:2002 10

similar manner to that for cable terminations, that is:

a) Type 1 arrangement: uninsulated conductors connected to bushings or supported by post

insulators (see figure A.7 in annex A);

b) Type 2 arrangement: shrouded conductors connected to bushings or supported by post insulators

(see figure A.8 in Annex A).

4.2.2 Creepage distances

The minimum specific creepage distances for bushings, post insulators and other MV insulating
components in an air-filled enclosure, for cable terminations or for live conductor arrangements, shall
comply with table 2.

Table 2 — Minimum specific creepage distance

1 2 3
Minimum specific creepage

Cable termination or live mm/kV

conductor arrangement Enclosure located indoor Enclosure located outdoor
20 25

4.2.3 Clearances

[Link] The minimum clearances ‘a’ to ‘d’ indicated in figures A.4 to A.8 in annex A are as follows:

a) Clearance ‘a’ is the minimum distance from any live bare metal (e.g. bushing, post insulator live
conductor, lug, fitting) to any live bare metal of an adjacent phase.

b) Clearance ‘b’ is the minimum distance from any live bare metal (e.g. bushing, post insulator live
conductor, lug, fitting) to earth.

c) Clearance ‘c’ is the minimum distance from any unscreened, shrouded, live metal (e.g. separable
connector, cable cores) to any unscreened, shrouded, live metal of an adjacent phase.

d) Clearance ‘d’ is the minimum distance from any unscreened, shrouded, live metal (e.g. separable
connector, cable cores) to earth.

[Link] Cable terminations or live conductor arrangements in air-filled enclosures, shall comply with
the minimum clearances ‘a’ and ‘b’ given in table 3.

[Link] Cable terminations or live conductor arrangements in air-filled enclosures, shall comply with
the minimum clearances ‘c’ and ‘d’ given in table 4.

[Link] Where screened separable connectors (Type 4 termination) are used, the phase-to-phase and
phase-to-earth clearances are based purely upon the mechanical requirements of the connectors. It is
recommended that bushing centres of ≥ 100 mm are used between phases and ≥ 50 mm between
bushing centres and the enclosure sides.
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11 NRS 012:2002

Table 3 — Clearances for air-insulated cable terminations or live conductors within

air-insulated enclosures (Type 1)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Clearance
Symbols
for Description of mm
clearances clearance Voltage rating of enclosure
(see figures kV
A.4 and A.7 7,2 12 24 36
in annex A)
List 2 List 3 List 2 List 3 List 2 List 3 List 2 List 3
A Distance between bare
metal phase-to-phase 90 120 120 160 220 280 320 380

B Distance between bare

metal and earthed metal 90 120 120 160 220 280 320 380

NOTE 1 Dimensions ‘a’ and ‘b’ are described in column 2 and can be identified in figures A.4, and A.7 in annex A by the
letter given in column 1. Columns 3 and 4 apply to an enclosure for a rated voltage of 7,2 kV. Columns 5 and 6 apply to a
rated voltage of 12 kV, etc.
NOTE 2 Clearances between bare live metal, phase-to-phase and between bare live metal (i.e. a phase) and earthed
metal are in accordance with the recommendations of IEC 60071-1 and IEC 60071-2 for the applicable lightning impulse
withstand voltage, and are based on dielectric strength considerations.

Table 4 — Clearances for unscreened and shrouded cable termination

and live conductors within air-insulated enclosures (Types 2 and 3)

1 2 3 4 5 6
Clearance
Symbols for
clearances Description of clearance mm

(see figures A.4, Voltage rating of enclosure

A.5, A.6 and A.8 kV
in annex A)
7,2 12 24 36
C Distance between insulation covering live
metal phase-to-phase 40 55 110 165

D Distance between insulation covering live

metal and earth 35 50 100 150

NOTE 1 Dimensions ‘c’ and ‘d’ are described in column 2 and can be identified in figures A.4, A.5, A.6 and A.8 by the
letter given in column 1. Column 3 applies to an enclosure for a rated voltage of 7,2 kV, column 4 to a rated voltage of
12 kV, etc.
NOTE 2 Clearances between shrouded live metal, phase-to-phase and between shrouded live metal (i.e. a phase)
and earthed metal are in accordance with the recommendations of CENELEC HD 428.2.2 S1 for the applicable rated
voltage. Clearances are based upon dielectric strength consideration for lightning impulse and a.c. withstand voltage
(i.e. corona and extinction).
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NRS 012:2002 12

4.3 Enclosures for cable terminations in air

4.3.1 Design considerations for cable termination enclosures

[Link] The enclosures shall be suitable for the termination in air of

a) impregnated-paper-insulated electric cables in accordance with SABS 97, and

b) cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulated electric cables in accordance with SABS 1339,

and shall be suitable to form part of equipment such as switchgear or transformers, or to comprise
stand-alone equipment, for example, junction boxes, as specified in schedule A.

[Link] The required type of cable termination (see [Link]) shall be specified in schedule A.

[Link] The enclosure shall comply with the insulation co-ordination requirements in 4.2.

[Link] The enclosures shall be suitable for operating indoors or outdoors (or both) under the following
environmental conditions:

a) altitude : not exceeding 1 800 m;

b) ambient air temperature: -5 °C to 40 °C,

c) relative humidity : 10 % to 95 %; and

d) pollution conditions within the enclosure: light for indoor enclosures and medium for outdoor
enclosures;

or in the specification for the equipment to which the enclosure is to be connected.

[Link] The enclosures shall be based on the following parameters specified in schedule A:

a) the rated voltage;

b) the rated current;

c) the number of poles;

d) the number, type and size of cables and the number and size of glands;

e) the system fault level and the maximum protection operating time;

f) the types of bushings or post insulators required;

g) the earthing methods required; and

h) the list (see table 1) of the rated lightning impulse withstand voltage.

[Link] The enclosures shall be designed for cables entering from below. When specified in
schedule A, the design shall be modified to allow for cable entry from other directions.

[Link] Cable entry to the enclosures shall be through either cable wiping glands and armour clamps
that comply with the requirements of BS 2562 or mechanical cable glands that comply with the
requirements of SABS 1213. If other ifxing arrangements are required, these shall be specified in
schedule A.
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13 NRS 012:2002

[Link] The enclosures, when ready for service on or in equipment, shall be capable of withstanding
the tests specified for the equipment to which they are attached.

[Link] Stand-alone equipment, for example junction boxes, shall be capable of withstanding the
insulation tests (see 5.1.2a) and 5.1.2b)) at the rated insulation level given in 4.1 and of withstanding a
short time current withstand test (see 5.1.2d)) to the level specified in 4.3.1.5e).

[Link] Steps shall be taken to minimize the effects of induced circulating currents or eddy currents
in enclosures for the termination of single-core cables.

[Link] Enclosures shall be so constructed to minimize the danger of fragmentation in the event of
an internal arc fault. Explosion vents shall be fitted, if necessary, to ensure that the enclosures
comply with this requirement. Cast iron shall not be used. Enclosures shall be internally arc tested
(see 5.1.2c)).

[Link] Enclosures shall be designed for ease of access to the cables for the purposes of
terminating and connecting. The particulars of the enclosure shall be stated in schedule B.
NOTE In the case of self-contained enclosures (i.e. enclosures with only bushings or post insulators) this can best be
achieved by making the gland plate removable, fitting the gland plate with a front flange, and providing a separate front
cover to the enclosure. The cover should be removable and bolted to the enclosure and the gland plate. This arrangement
is illustrated in figure A.1 of annex A. An alternative arrangement, illustrated in figure A.2 in annex A, requires that the
cable be threaded vertically through the gland plate opening.

[Link] When removable front covers are used, they shall only be removable using tools. In the case
of junction boxes, a danger notice (type WW7) that complies with the requirements of SABS 1186-1
shall be fixed to the front cover.

[Link] When the purchaser, as specified in schedule A, supplies cable glands, the gland plate shall
be left undrilled, or drilled as specified in schedule A.

[Link] Enclosures for outdoor applications shall provide a degree of protection of at least IP 54 in
accordance with SABS 1222. Suitable ventilation and drainage holes shall be provided to minimize the
possibility of condensation.

[Link] Enclosures for indoor applications shall provide a degree of protection of at least IP 3X in
accordance with SABS 1222.

[Link] When more than one cable is to be terminated, the depth of the enclosure shall allow for
tandem rather than parallel positioning of the cable glands, as shown in figure A.3 of annex A. This is
to avoid crossing of the cable cores of different phases.

[Link] Two-pole enclosures shall be the same design as the three-pole type, except that the centre
bushing or post insulator shall be omitted.

[Link] When four-pole enclosures are specified, the design shall be based on the three-pole
enclosure dimensions with regard to clearances, etc.

[Link] If current transformers are mounted in the air-filled enclosure they shall:

a) be rated for the appropriate highest system voltage, comply with the minimum specific creepage
requirement in 4.2.2 and the enclosure dimensions shall be sufficient to maintain the clearances
required in table 3 and table 4 (as applicable), or
b) be rated for ≤ 1 000 V and be positioned around a screened section of the cable or bushing. The
minimum distance from any point of the current transformer or secondary wiring to unscreened
cable insulation shall not be less than that required in table 4. In order to achieve correct operation
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NRS 012:2002 14

of the current transformers, care shall be taken to ensure that the earthing connection does not
result in the cancellation of go and return currents (see figures A.9 and A.10 of annex A).

[Link] If voltage transformers are mounted in the air-filled enclosure they shall be rated for the
appropriate highest system voltage and shall comply with the minimum specific creepage requirement
in 4.2.2.

[Link] If a current transformer or voltage transformers are required in an enclosure, it shall be stated
in schedule A, together with the rated voltage of the transformers (see [Link]) and the dimensions of
the transformers.

4.3.2 Bushings and post insulators

[Link] The required minimum specific creepage shall be specified in schedule A. Although a lower
minimum specific creepage for bushings and post insulators might be specified in the specification of
the equipment to which the enclosure is to be attached, the minimum values given in table 2, shall be
used for the enclosure to comply with this specification.
[Link] Bushings shall conform to the requirements in table 5.
Table 5 — Bushing requirements

1 2 3

Termination/arrangeme Specification Profile

nt
Type 1 SABS IEC 60137 SABS IEC 60815
Type 2 SABS IEC 60137 SABS IEC 60815
Type 3 EN 50180 or EN 50181 EN 50180 or EN 50181 type
C (M16×2)
Type 4 EN 50180 or EN 50181 EN 50180 or EN 50181 type
C (M16×2) or type A

[Link] Post insulators shall conform to the requirements in table 6.

Table 6 — Post insulator requirements

1 2 3
Termination/arrangeme Specification Profile
nt
Type 1 SABS IEC 60273 SABS IEC 60815
Type 2 SABS IEC 60273 SABS IEC 60815

[Link] Due allowance shall be made when selecting bushings and post insulators for the short-circuit
forces which may be encountered in service.

[Link] Whether the bushings or post insulators are to be supplied by the manufacturer or whether
they are part of the connected equipment shall be specified in schedule A.

[Link] The preferred fixing method for screened separable connector terminations (i.e. plug-in or
bolted-type) shall be specified in schedule A.

4.3.3 Mounting on equipment (self-contained cable termination enclosures)

[Link] The dimensions of flange facings that are provided for the purpose of mounting self-contained
enclosures on equipment shall be selected to suit the requirements of the manufacturer of the
equipment.
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15 NRS 012:2002
NOTE The flange fixing arrangements should comply with the requirements of BS 2562 where possible.

[Link] All mounting bolts, studs and nuts shall comply with the requirements of the relevant parts of
SABS 1700, and all steel bolts, studs, washers and nuts shall be corrosion-resistant. Where specified
in schedule A, or in the case of an outdoor enclosure the mounting bolts or studs, nuts and washers
shall be stainless steel.
[Link] When the enclosure is to be attached to oil-filled equipment, an oil-resistant gasket shall be
fitted to the flange.

4.3.4 Earthing for cable termination enclosures

[Link] Means shall be provided for earthing core screens and cable shields or armouring (or both)
within the enclosure. Where the earth connection is made within the equipment to which the enclosure
is to be attached, provision shall be made for the earth lead to pass through the enclosure through an
insulated connection.

[Link] Where not covered in the specification of the equipment to which the enclosure is to be
attached, the earth terminal shall be a 30 mm long boss with an M12 thread throughout welded to the
enclosure. The boss shall be fitted with an M12 × 25 mm bolt, washer and spring washer. The boss
and the bolt shall be stainless steel.

[Link] Where an insulating gasket or joint between the enclosure flange and the equipment is
required, provision shall be made for the effective earthing of the enclosure to the equipment.

4.3.5 Height of cable termination enclosures

[Link] The distance between the centre line of terminals and the gland plate of an enclosure or cable
clamping bar (if applicable) shall be as specified in table 7. See figure A.1 or figure A.2 in annex A for
dimension ‘e’.

Table 7 — Distance from terminal centre line to gland plate

or cable clamping bar (if applicable)

1 2 3 4 5 6
Symbol for Cable type and size Clearance
clearance
mm
(see figures A.1 or
A.2 in annex A) Voltage rating of enclosure
kV
7,2 12 24 36
Single-core cables :
e All sizes 350 400 500 650
Three-core cables :
e Up to 95 mm2 550 600 700 800
2 2
e 120 mm to 185 mm 600 650 750 900
2 2
e 240 mm to 400 mm 650 700 800 950
NOTE 1 The distance specified is adequate to allow for core crossings if necessary to achieve correct phasing.
NOTE 2 Core crossing should preferably be performed where the cable cores are screened.

[Link] Where an enclosure is to be equipped with current transformers rated ≤ 1 000 V (see
[Link]) and a three-core cable is used, the distance from the terminal centre line to the gland plate
or cable clamping bar (if applicable) shall generally have to be increased by 150 mm. The additional
length is required to allow for tri-furcating of the cores without mechanically overstressing the cable
crutch as well as to maintain the required clearances.
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NRS 012:2002 16

4.3.6 Reduced height of cable termination enclosures

Table 8 specifies the reduced distances between the centre line of terminals and the gland plate of an
enclosure or cable clamping bar (if applicable) in enclosures with limited space but which may apply
to other equipment under certain conditions. In particular,

a) no core crossings inside the enclosure are permitted,

b) the gland plate shall be wholly removable to allow for cable termination work outside the box, and
the fitting of the gland plate, gland and terminated cable in one action,

c) the enclosure shall not contain any current transformers, and

d) the box shall carry a stick-on label for the cable contractor, stating: “Core crossings inside this
box are not permissible”.

Table 8 — Reduced distance from terminal centre line to gland plate or cable clamping bar
(if applicable) for air-insulated termination of three-core cables with limited space

1 2 3 4
Symbols for Cable type and size Clearance
clearances (see figures
mm
A.1 or A.2 in annex A)
Voltage rating of enclosure
kV
7,2 12
Three-core cables :
e up to 95 mm2 400 500
e 120 mm2 to 185 mm2 400 500
2 2
e 240 mm to 400 mm 500 600

4.3.7 Protection against corrosion

[Link] The coating system used by the manufacturer shall meet the tests stipulated in 5.5.

[Link] Special coating systems required by the user shall be specified in schedule A.

[Link] The colour of the enclosure shall be specified in schedule A.

4.4 Rating plate

4.4.1 A rating plate for the enclosure shall be supplied when specified in schedule A. This plate shall
be of intrinsically corrosion-resistant material with the following details legibly and indelibly marked
thereon:

a) the manufacturer's name;

b) the product type number;

c) the voltage and current rating; and

d) the insulation level.

4.4.2 The method used to attach the rating plate shall be stated in schedule B.
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17 NRS 012:2002

5 Tests

5.1 Type test requirements for enclosures

5.1.1 The type tests for enclosures forming part of other equipment are generally covered by the type
tests for that particular equipment.

5.1.2 The type tests for enclosures (such as cable junction boxes) that are not intended to be
attached to any equipment shall be performed on a completely assembled enclosure, i.e. including
cable connections and live conductors. Carry out the tests as follows:

a) a lightning impulse voltage withstand test in accordance with IEC 60060-1;

b) a short-duration power-frequency voltage withstand test in accordance with IEC 60060-1;

c) an internal arc fault test in accordance with SABS IEC 60298 on an air-insulated enclosure
complete with cables and bushings or post insulators. During the test the explosion vent shall
operate to protect the enclosure from serious distortion; and

d) a short time current withstand test to demonstrate that the complete assembly is capable of
handling the system fault level and duration specified in schedule A.

5.1.3 The type tests shall be performed on each type and size of enclosure or, alternatively, the
manufacturer shall supply a summary of test certificates that have been issued by an independent
accredited test facility. Type tests on enclosures, bushings or post insulators similar to those
described above are acceptable as evidence of compliance with this specification unless otherwise
specified in schedule A.

5.2 Type test requirements for cable terminations

Cable terminations used within enclosures shall be suitably type tested in accordance with NRS 053.

5.3 Routine performance tests

5.3.1 Routine performance tests are not required on the cable termination enclosures, unless the
enclosures are supplied as part of other equipment which requires these tests, or the tests are
specified in schedule A.

5.3.2 Routine tests on junction boxes are not required unless specified in schedule A.

5.4 Post-installation tests

5.4.1 A junction box shall be capable of withstanding the withstand voltages specified in 4.1, when
tested after all the cables have been connected for service.

5.4.2 Enclosures forming part of other equipment shall withstand the post installation tests performed
on that equipment.

5.5 Tests on painted surfaces

Protection of coatings against corrosion shall be assessed using test samples of the same materials
used in the construction of the enclosures and subjected to the same painting procedures as the
enclosures. The following tests shall be performed:

a) adhesion test in accordance with SABS SM 159 the cross-cutting coefficient shall be not less
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NRS 012:2002 18

than 8;

b) exposure to salt fog for 168 h tested in accordance with SABS SM 155 the coated surfaces shall
show no visible defects and the underlying metal shall be free from corrosion and scale; and

c) scratch resistance test in accordance with SABS SM 147 when a massload of 1 kg is applied to
the test needle, the scratch produced shall not penetrate to the underlying metal. The scratch
shall have no jagged edges.
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19 NRS 012:2002

Annex A
(normative)

Illustrations of enclosures and live conductors

Figure A.1 – Typical self-contained termination enclosure (entry position of two three-core cables
shown as dotted circles).

Figure A.2 – Alternative self-contained termination enclosure – Vertical threading of cable through
gland plate opening

Figure A.3 – Correct method of connecting cables.

Figure A.4 – Air-insulated termination (Type 1).

Figure A.5 – Shrouded insulation termination (Type 2).

Figure A.6 – Unscreened separable connector termination (Type 3).

Figure A.7 – Air-insulated live conductor arrangement (Type 1).

Figure A.8 – Shrouded live conductor arrangement (Type 2).

Figure A.9 – Illustration of the correct earthing for ring type current transformers on each cable core
used for overcurrent and earth fault indication.

Figure A.10 – Illustration of the correct earthing for ring type current transformer used for earth fault
indication.
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NRS 012:2002 20

Annex A
(continued)

A A

Figure A.1 — Typical self-contained termination enclosure (entry

position of two 3-core cables shown as dotted circles)
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21 NRS 012:2002

Annex A
(continued)

A A

Figure A.2 — Alternative self-contained termination enclosure showing vertical

threading of cable through gland plate opening
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NRS 012:2002 22

Annex A
(continued)

Figure A.3 — Correct method of connecting cables

This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

23 NRS 012:2002

Annex A
(continued)

a b
b

c d
d
End of core
screen

Figure A.4 — Air-insulated termination (Type 1)

d d

c d
d

End of core
screen

Figure A.5 — Shrouded insulation termination (Type 2)

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NRS 012:2002 24

Annex A
(continued)

d d
c

c d d

End of core
screen

Figure A.6 — Unscreened separable connector termination (Type 3)

Live bare conductors

e.g. busbars

Earth plane
b
e.g. enclosure wall
a

Figure A.7 — Air-insulated live conductor arrangement (Type 1)

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25 NRS 012:2002

Annex A
(continued)

Live insulated conductors

e.g. insulated busbars

Earth plane
d e.g. enclosure wall

Figure A.8 — Shrouded live conductor arrangement (Type 2)

End of
core screen

O/C

O/C
O/C

E/F

Armour or
lead sheath

Figure A.9 — Illustration of the correct earthing for ring type current transformers on each
cable core used for overcurrent and earth fault indication
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NRS 012:2002 26

Annex A
(concluded)

Insulated gland

E/F

Armour or
lead sheath

Figure A.10 — Illustration of the correct earthing for ring type current transformer used for
earth fault indication
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27 NRS 012:2002

Annex B
(informative)

Guide to purchasers on preparing an enquiry

B.1 General
A model form is given in annex C to provide the purchaser with a convenient aid to purchasing. The
use of annex C is intended to obviate the need for preparing a detailed technical specification.

The purchaser need only specify compliance with NRS 012, provi de the tenderers with details of his
particular requirements, and set out the information he requires the tenderer to provide, as indicated
below.

NOTE It is assumed that tenderers are in possession of this specification.

B.2 Schedules

B.2.1. Schedules A and B

The model form in annex C provides the purchaser with examples of a schedule A and a schedule B.
In his enquiry, the purchaser should provide his own schedule A and schedule B, based on these
examples.

NOTE It will be necessary to provide separate schedules A and B for each switchboard assembly, if more than one is
required.

B.2.2. Schedule A

Schedule A lists the requirements to be specified by the purchaser in enquiries and orders. These
requirements include references to the relevant subclauses in this specification, to assist in compiling
the schedules.

Where the text of any reference standards stipulates that the purchaser must indicate his
requirements, these requirements should also be specified in schedule A.

The purchaser should set out his particular requirements and choices in his own schedule A.

B.2.3 Schedule B

The purchaser should draw up his own schedule B (based on the schedule B in the model form), and
require the tenderer to fill in this schedule. By doing this, the tenderer will be stating compliance with
this specification and will provide the information the purchaser has requested.

NOTE 1 Where this specification allows the purchaser to make a choice, the example of schedule A (in the model form in
annex C) lists the preferred items/values/quantities. In the interest of standardization, purchasers are encouraged not to
deviate from these preferences.

NOTE 2 When preparing his own schedule A and schedule B from the examples in the model form in annex C, the
purchaser need only include the items he considers to be relevant or necessary.

NOTE 3 These schedules, when completed, become normative annexes to the enquiry specification.
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NRS 012:2002 28

Annex B
(concluded)

B.3 Commercial conditions

A purchaser will furthermore need to indicate the commercial conditions applicable and draw up a
price schedule. Requirements for delivery, storage, packing and marking should be attended to in this
part of the enquiry.

B.4 Quality assurance

This specification does not cover the purchaser's possible requirements in respect of quality
assurance, quality control, inspection, etc., since each purchaser needs to consider the criticality of
the application of each component, his own policy towards these matters, etc. Purchasers are referred
to SABS ISO 9001 for guidance.

B.5 Testing
Attention should be paid to the subject of tests and the related costs. Tests should be carried out by
an accredited testing laboratory and tenderers should be requested to provide assurances on this
point. Price schedules should be so drawn up and covering letters so worded that the costs of all
services such as tests, delivery and spares are declared and allowed for in the tender.

B.6 Revision of standards used as normative references

This specification, as has been indicated, is based on a set of defined standards which may have
been revised or amended. It may be expected that most purchasers would in principle wish to employ
the latest standards. It is recommended that an approach to this question be to secure an undertaking
from a supplier to review the latest versions and amendments and to incorporate these where possible
and agreeable to both parties. A blanket commitment to work to the "latest" versions of standards
creates risks for both parties and should be properly assessed. This invariably cannot be done in the
time available. A blanket commitment to use the "latest" versions of standards creates legal difficulties
of interpretation.
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29 NRS 012:2002

Annex C
(informative)

Model form for schedules A and B

The model form is provided as a convenient aid to purchasing. Guidance on preparing an enquiry using
this form is given in annex B.
Schedule A: Purchaser's specific requirements
Schedule B: Particulars of equipment to be supplied (to be completed by tenderer)
Item Sub- Description Schedule A Schedule B
clause of
NRS 012
1 [Link] Enclosure will be stand-alone or to be attached to? xxxxxxxxx

2 [Link] Type (1-4) of cable termination required? xxxxxxxxx

3 4.3.1.5a) Rated voltage xxxxxxxxx

4 4.3.1.5b) Rated current xxxxxxxxx

5 4.3.1.5c) Number of poles xxxxxxxxx

6 4.3.1.5d) Number of cables and glands xxxxxxxxx

7 4.3.1.5d) Size of glands xxxxxxxxx

8 4.3.1.5d) Number of cables to be terminated xxxxxxxxx

9 4.3.1.5d) The type of cable xxxxxxxxx

10 4.3.1.5d) Size of cable xxxxxxxxx

11 4.3.1.5e) System fault level xxxxxxxxx

12 4.3.1.5e) Maximum protection operating time xxxxxxxxx

13 4.3.1.5f) Type of bushing or post insulator to be used xxxxxxxxx

14 4.3.1.5g) Earthing method required xxxxxxxxx

15 4.3.1.5h) The list of the lightning impulse voltage xxxxxxxxx

16 [Link] Cable entry location (if not from below)? xxxxxxxxx

17 [Link] Other fixing arrangement of cable (if required)? xxxxxxxxx

18 [Link] Particulars of enclosures for ease of access? xxxxxxxxx

19 [Link] Will the purchaser supply cable glands? xxxxxxxxx

20 [Link] Does the gland plate need to be drilled? xxxxxxxxx

21 [Link] If yes, state details xxxxxxxxx

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NRS 012:2002 30

Annex C
(concluded)

Item Sub- Description Schedule A Schedule B

clause of
NRS 012

22 [Link] Are current or voltage transformers to be mounted xxxxxxxxx

in the enclosure?

23 [Link] Rated voltage CT & VT xxxxxxxxx

24 [Link] Dimensions of CT and VT xxxxxxxxx

25 [Link] Minimum specific creepage required? xxxxxxxxx

26 [Link] Are bushings part of the connected equipment or to

be supplied by manufacturer? xxxxxxxxx

27 [Link] Detail of screened separable connector fixing xxxxxxxxx

method

28 [Link] Are stainless steel bolts, studs, etc required? xxxxxxxxx

29 [Link] Are there special coating requirements? xxxxxxxxx

30 [Link] If yes, where are the coating requirements xxxxxxxxx

specified?

31 [Link] Is an enclosure colour required? xxxxxxxxx

32 4.4 Is a rating plate required? xxxxxxxxx

33 4.4.2 Method used to attach the rating plate? xxxxxxxxx

34 5.1.3 Are type tests on similar equipment acceptable? xxxxxxxxx

35 5.3. Are routine tests required on enclosures? xxxxxxxxx

36 5.3. If yes, where are the tests specified? xxxxxxxxx

 This standard may only be used and printed by approved subscription and freemailing clients of the SABS.

31 NRS 012:2002

Bibliography
SABS ISO 9001:2000, Quality management systems – Requirements.

sabs pta