1 Scope and object
This part of IEC 61238 applies to compression and mechanical connectors for power cables for rated voltages
up to 36 kV ( U m = 42 kV) , e.g. buried cables or cables installed in buildings, having
a) conductors complying with IEC 60228 and IEC 60228A with cross-sectional areas 10 mm 2 and greater for copper and 16 mm 2 and greater for aluminium,
b) a maximum continuous conductor temperature not exceeding 90 °C.
This standard is not applicable to connectors for overhead conductors, which are designed
for special mechanical requirements, or to separable connectors with a sliding contact
or multi-core connectors (i.e. ring connectors).
Although it is not possible to define precisely the service conditions for all applications,
two broad classes of connectors have been identified.
Class A
These are connectors intended for electricity distribution or industrial networks
in which they can be subjected to short-circuits of relatively high intensity and
duration. As a consequence, Class A connectors are suitable for the majority of applications.
Class B
These are connectors for networks in which overloads or short-circuits are rapidly
cleared by the installed protective devices, e.g. fast-acting fuses.
Depending on...