IEC 61238-1-3:2018 applies to compression and mechanical connectors for power cables for rated voltages above 1 kV (U_m = 1,2 kV) up to 30 kV (U_m = 36 kV), for example buried cables or cables installed in buildings, having
a) conductors complying with IEC 60228 having nominal cross-sectional areas between 2,5 mm² and 1 200 mm² for copper and between 16 mm² and 1 200 mm² for aluminium, excluding Milliken conductors;
b) a maximum continuous conductor temperature not exceeding 90 °C.
This document is not applicable to connectors for overhead line conductors nor to connectors with a sliding contact.
The object of this document is to define the type test methods and requirements which apply to compression and mechanical connectors for power cables with copper or aluminium conductors. The reference method is to perform the tests on unused conductors.
This first edition, together with IEC 61238-1-1 and IEC 61238-1-2, cancels and replaces IEC 61238-1:2003.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to IEC 61238­-1:2003:
a) The scope has been widened to cover connectors for conductors from 10 mm² down to 2,5 mm² and has been limited to 1 200 mm² for connectors for copper and aluminium conductors because test experience and applications are rare for conductors of larger cross-sectional areas.
b) A new mechanical class has been introduced to satisfy the demand for connectors subjected to higher mechanical forces than those specified in Class 1 for conductors of larger cross-sectional areas.
c) For the electrical test, a maximum elevated heating current has been set in order to avoid unrealistic current densities during the test which may change the properties of tested connectors.
d) For the short-circuit test, the method of calculation and requirements have been updated.
e) For the mechanical test, the methods and requirements have been updated.
f) A proposal for an electrical test on cable terminal lugs for application in separable connectors has been introduced.