LVAV (Low Voltage Aluminum Armoured) cables are engineered for demanding power distribution applications requiring maximum protection against mechanical damage. Featuring aluminum conductors with PVC insulation and double galvanized steel tape armour, these cables deliver reliable performance in harsh environments while providing excellent protection against crushing, impact, and rodent damage.
Primary Applications
Underground Installation
- Direct burial: Underground power distribution without additional conduit protection
- Utility networks: Municipal and industrial underground electrical systems
- Substation connections: Power distribution from substations to load centers
- Industrial sites: Underground power supply for manufacturing facilities
Harsh Environment Applications
- Construction sites: Temporary power distribution in demanding conditions
- Mining operations: Power supply in industrial mining environments
- Agricultural installations: Rural power distribution with rodent protection
- Coastal areas: Power distribution in corrosive environments
Protective Installation Requirements
- Mechanical protection: Areas subject to crushing forces or impact
- Rodent-prone areas: Locations where cable damage from animals is a concern
- High-traffic zones: Underground installations beneath roads or walkways
- Industrial facilities: Areas with heavy machinery and potential cable damage
Standards Compliance
- IEC 60502-1: International standard for power cables with extruded insulation
- HD 603-40: European harmonized standard for low voltage power cables
Construction Details
Conductor
- Material: High-quality aluminum alloy
- Class: Class 2 stranded construction per IEC standards
- Configuration: Circular or shaped stranding for optimal performance
- Benefits: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, cost-effective alternative to copper
Insulation System
- Material: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) Type A
- Properties: Excellent dielectric strength and chemical resistance
- Performance: Designed for long-term reliability in underground applications
- Temperature rating: Optimized for continuous operation at rated temperatures
Inner Covering
- Material: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- Function: Additional protection layer between insulation and armour
- Benefits: Prevents armour interaction with core insulation system
Armour Protection
- Type: Double galvanized steel tape armour
- Construction: Overlapping steel tapes provide comprehensive mechanical protection
- Galvanization: Corrosion protection for extended service life
- Performance: Superior resistance to crushing, impact, and penetration damage
Technical Specifications
Electrical Ratings
- Rated Voltage (U₀/U): 0.6/1 kV
- Test Voltage: 3.5 kV AC for 5 minutes
- Frequency: 50/60 Hz applications
Temperature Performance
- Continuous Operation: Maximum 70°C conductor temperature
- Short Circuit: Maximum 160°C (t ≤ 5 seconds)
- Installation: Consider ambient temperature during installation
Mechanical Properties
- Minimum Bending Radius: 12 × cable diameter
- Maximum Pulling Force: 30 × conductor cross-sectional area (N) with pulling sleeve
- Armour Protection: Excellent resistance to mechanical damage
Performance Specifications
| Configuration | Outer Diameter (mm) | Cable Weight (kg/km) | DC Resistance at 20°C (Ω/km) | Current Rating (A) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase/Neutral | Air | |||
| 3×16+1×10 | 23.5 | 711 | 1.91/3.08 | 57 |
| 3×25+1×16 | 27.2 | 937 | 1.2/1.91 | 66 |
| 3×35+1×16 | 28.4 | 1057 | 0.868/1.91 | 81 |
| 3×50+1×25 | 32.8 | 1378 | 0.641/1.2 | 98 |
| 3×70+1×35 | 38.0 | 2123 | 0.443/0.868 | 120 |
| 3×95+1×50 | 43.0 | 2673 | 0.32/0.641 | 150 |
| 3×120+1×70 | 47.3 | 3221 | 0.253/0.443 | 180 |
| 3×150+1×70 | 51.0 | 3703 | 0.206/0.443 | 205 |
| 3×185+1×95 | 56.2 | 4472 | 0.164/0.32 | 235 |
| 3×240+1×120 | 62.7 | 5540 | 0.125/0.253 | 280 |
| 3×300+1×150 | 68.9 | 6643 | 0.1/0.206 | 320 |
Key Performance Features
Superior Protection
- Double steel tape armour: Maximum mechanical protection against crushing and impact
- Rodent resistance: Steel armour prevents damage from burrowing animals
- Corrosion protection: Galvanized steel construction resists environmental corrosion
- Long service life: Robust construction ensures decades of reliable operation
Electrical Performance
- High current capacity: Optimized conductor design for maximum current carrying capability
- Low resistance: Aluminum conductors provide excellent electrical conductivity
- Voltage stability: Designed for reliable 0.6/1 kV operation
- Temperature management: Efficient heat dissipation in underground installations
Installation Advantages
- Direct burial capability: No additional conduit or protection required
- Flexible installation: Suitable for various underground installation methods
- Standard compatibility: Works with conventional underground installation hardware
- Pulling strength: High tensile strength for long cable pulls
Economic Benefits
- Cost-effective: Aluminum conductors provide excellent value compared to copper
- Reduced installation costs: Direct burial eliminates need for additional protection
- Low maintenance: Armoured construction minimizes service requirements
- Long-term reliability: Robust design reduces replacement frequency
Installation Guidelines
Underground Installation
- Burial depth: Follow local electrical codes for minimum burial depths
- Backfill: Use appropriate granular backfill material around cable
- Marking: Install warning tape or markers above buried cables
- Separation: Maintain proper separation from other utilities
Mechanical Considerations
- Bending radius: Maintain minimum 12 × cable diameter during installation
- Pulling force: Do not exceed 30 × conductor area with proper pulling sleeve
- Support: Provide adequate support during installation to prevent damage
- Termination: Use appropriate glands and fittings for armoured cable termination
Environmental Factors
- Soil conditions: Consider soil type, moisture, and chemical content
- Ground temperature: Account for soil temperature in current rating calculations
- Drainage: Ensure adequate drainage to prevent water accumulation
- Corrosion protection: Additional protection may be required in highly corrosive soils
Application Selection Guide
| Application Type | Recommended Size Range | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Underground | 3×16+1×10 to 3×35+1×16 | Cost-effective, rodent protection |
| Commercial Distribution | 3×50+1×25 to 3×120+1×70 | High capacity, reliable protection |
| Industrial Power | 3×150+1×70 to 3×300+1×150 | Maximum current capacity, durability |
| Utility Networks | Full range | Standardized construction, proven reliability |
Quality Assurance
- International standards: Manufactured to IEC and HD specifications
- Quality testing: Comprehensive electrical, mechanical, and environmental testing
- Material certification: High-quality aluminum and galvanized steel components
- Performance verification: Factory testing ensures consistent product quality
Safety Considerations
- Proper grounding: Ensure armour is properly grounded per electrical codes
- Installation safety: Use qualified electrical contractors for underground installation
- Utility coordination: Coordinate with local utilities before excavation
- Code compliance: Install per National Electrical Code and local requirements
For technical specifications, installation guidance, or custom cable configurations, contact our underground power cable specialists.