Document

STANDARD
Document Classification: Controlled Disclosure

Title: Distribution Standard – Part 22: Unique Identifier: 34-1176
General information and
Document Type: DST
requirements for low-voltage
cable systems Revision: 0
Published date: OCTOBER 2008
Total pages: 45
Review date: OCTOBER 2013
COMPILED BY APPROVED BY FUNCTIONAL RESP AUTHORISED BY
SIGNED SIGNED SIGNED SIGNED

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
R A KELLY & M RAMASHI V SINGH MN BAILEY
A J MAUDU
Chief Engineer & UG SC Chairman for TESCOD CMDT for MD (Dx)
Senior Engineer
Content
Page
1 Scope................................................................................................................................................8
2 Normative references .......................................................................................................................8
3 Definitions and abbreviations .........................................................................................................14
3.1 Definitions ................................................................................................................................14
3.2 Abbreviations ...........................................................................................................................16
4 Requirements .................................................................................................................................17
4.1 Statutory requirements.............................................................................................................17
4.2 Other statutory bodies..............................................................................................................17
4.3 Servitude and wayleave agreements.......................................................................................17
4.4 Environmental considerations..................................................................................................17
4.5 Performance and operability requirements..............................................................................18
4.6 Earthing philosophy .................................................................................................................19
4.7 Metering philosophy.................................................................................................................20
4.8 Low-voltage cables ..................................................................................................................20
4.9 LV cable accessories ...............................................................................................................29
4.10 Lugs, ferrules and crimping....................................................................................................30
4.11 Mini-substations .....................................................................................................................30
4.12 Ground-mounted transformers...............................................................................................31
4.13 Meter kiosks, meter panels and distribution kiosks ...............................................................31
4.14 Installation of meter kiosks and distribution kiosks ................................................................33
4.15 Public lighting .........................................................................................................................33
4.16 Construction ...........................................................................................................................33
4.17 Marking and labelling .............................................................................................................33
4.18 Documentation .......................................................................................................................35
5 Inspection and testing.....................................................................................................................35
5.1 General ....................................................................................................................................35
5.2 Visual inspections ....................................................................................................................35
5.3 Electrical tests ..........................................................................................................................35
JFSholtz/Jan’08 (Rev A) to ensure traceability

DOCUMENT CLASSIFICATION: CONTROLLED DISCLOSURE
General information and requirements for low- Unique Identifier: 34-1176
voltage cable systems Type: DST
Revision: 0
Page: 2 of 45
6 Operating ........................................................................................................................................36
6.1 Phasing conventions for LV equipment ...................................................................................36
7 Safety..............................................................................................................................................36
7.1 LV MCCBs installed in mini-substations ..................................................................................36
7.2 Road safety precautions ..........................................................................................................38
7.3 Safety of foundations, buildings and structures .......................................................................38
7.4 Safety of other services ...........................................................................................................38
7.5 Barricading and lighting ...........................................................................................................38
7.6 Accommodation of traffic and access to properties .................................................................38
7.7 Working on and in the vicinity of live cables ............................................................................39
Annex A – Cable Installation and Test Certificate .............................................................................40
Annex B - Impact assessment...........................................................................................................42
When downloaded from the IARC WEB, this document is uncontrolled and the responsibility rests with the user
to ensure it is in line with the authorised version on the WEB.
Revision: 0
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Foreword
The Distribution Standard is a multi-part document whose total structure is defined in Part 0. This part of
the Distribution Standard consists of the following sections under Part 22 having the general title ‘Cables’ :
Section 0 : 34-1175, General information and requirements for medium-voltage cable systems.
Section 1 : 34-937, Insulation requirements for medium-voltage cable-connected equipment with air-filled
enclosures.
Section 2 : 34-1176, General information and requirements for low-voltage cable systems.
Section 3 : 34-1177, General information and requirements for high-voltage cable systems.
Section 4 : 34-212, Inspection and maintenance of high-voltage cables.
Section 5 : 34-06, Medium-voltage services to large power users.
Section 6 : 34-209, Medium-voltage cabling in substations.
Any recommendations for corrections, additions or deletions to this standard should be sent to:
The Plant Technologies Manager
Industry Association Resource Centre (IARC)
Private Bag X1074
GERMISTON
1400
Telephone (011) 871-2416
Fax (011) 871-2352
Email: vinod.singh@eskom.co.za
The notices in Part 0 of the Distribution Standard are also applicable to this part.
Revision: 0
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Revision history
This revision cancels and replaces revision no 0 of specification no. SCSASACA1.
Date Rev. Clause Remarks

Nov’ 2000 0 Original issue.
AUGUST/ A - Compiled By: A J Maudu, R Kelly
2008
- Document revised according to revision cycle and latest TESCOD document
template.
1 Scope updated
2 Normative references fully updated. List of Eskom assembly and buyers
guide drawings updated.
3 New definitions (e.g. Rock, Shale and etc) and abbreviations added for LV
cable network.
4.2 Other statutory bodies from which permission may have to be obtained are
updated and 4.2.2 applications to the water, rail and local authorities shall be
made in accordance with 34-820, 34-1818 and 34-822.
4.3 4.3.4 In the event that Eskom’s rights (servitudes / wayleaves) may be
encroached upon and / or services / assets placed at risk, the requirements of
34-827 shall be followed.
4.4 Environmental requirements updated.
4.5.1 4.5.1.2 Only products that are listed as accepted and published on the Eskom
Distribution List of Accepted Products (LAP) shall be used.
4.5.3 4.5.3.1 LV feeder cables shall be supplied from mini-substations (see 34-
1621) added.
NOTE added under 4.5.3.3:
The use of 4-way and 6-way meter kiosks requires special approval from the
project engineer and may only be used in exceptional circumstances (e.g. for
cul-de-sac layouts where more than two properties converge to a common
point or for small developments having 6 or less customers where the metering
is done on the boundary of such a development).
Clauses 4.5.3.4, 4.5.3.6 and 4.5.3.7 revised.
NOTE added under 4.5.3.9:
There is no provision for mounting protective devices in ground-mounted
transformers, and therefore services cables do not have protection. For a short
cable the risk of a fault is minimal and is accepted.
4.5.4 c) and d) added:
c) LV service cables from distribution kiosks shall be protected using MCBs
(see D-DT-3034).
d) LV customer cables from meter kiosks or meter panels shall be protected
using either MCBs or MCCBs (see D-DT-3034).
4.6.1 Reference to 34-1895 included and a note on TN-C-S added.
4.6.2 The combined protective earth and neutral conductor (PEN) shall be earthed
at the source MV/LV transformer.
4.6.6 The cable armouring shall be bonded to the earth bar or earth terminal by
mechanical glands via the gland plate and
Revision: 0
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NOTE added:
Lugging of the armour wires and connecting them to the earth bar or earth
terminal may only be done in existing installations where there are no gland
plates provided. In this case, all the armour wires are to be used.
4.6.7 Clause revised and the main earthing conductor shall be connected to the
armour wires at both sides of the joint using constant force springs or armour
clamps added.
4.6.8 All exposed conductive parts of a consumer’s installation shall be connected
via the consumer’s separate protective earth conductor and consumer earth
terminal to the supply earth terminal at the point of supply.
NOTES added:
1) The supply earth terminal, in turn, is connected to the protective earth and
neutral (PEN) conductor of the LV system.
2) Where distribution kiosks are installed, a service cable having a PEN
conductor is used to supply the consumer. The service cable PEN is
connected to the LV feeder cable PEN at the distribution kiosk.
4.8.1 NOTES (a) and (b) added under 4.8.1.1:

a) Compulsory safety specification VC 8075 stipulates that all low-voltage
cables in South Africa comply with the requirements of SANS 1507.
b) The world market price of copper and aluminium dictates the type of
conductor that is most cost effective at any time, however copper
conductors have been chosen for the following reasons:
a. the core and outer diameters of a copper conductor cable are
smaller for equivalent ampacity than an aluminium conductor
cable – facilitating easier working when jointing and
terminating;
b. compression methods are simple for copper conductors
whereas there are numerous differing opinions regarding the
crimping requirements for aluminium cables; and
c. copper conductor cables do not require bi-metallic lugs when
connecting to equipment fitted with brass stem bushings.
NOTES added under 4.8.1.7:
The sustained current-carrying capacities calculated in table 5 are based upon
the standard installation conditions proposed by SANS 10198-4. The above
tables have been compiled from data given in SANS 10198-4. The standard
conditions are as follows:
a) maximum sustained conductor temperature for cables laid in ground or
single way ducts = 70 ºC.;
b) soil temperature at depth of burial = 25 ºC;
c) ambient air temperature = 30 ºC;
d) thermal resistivity of soil = 1,2 Km/W;
e) depth of laying to top surface of cable or single way duct in ground =
0,5 m (see D-DT-0854);
f) load factor = 1;
g) each cable is assumed to be thermally independent;
4.8.1.8 Where actual installation conditions differ significantly from the
standard conditions the sustained current-carrying capacity given in table 5
shall be modified by the appropriate rating factors. A quick calculation tool
that includes both steady-state rating factors (soil temperature, air
Revision: 0
Page: 6 of 45

temperature, soil thermal resistivity, depth of burial, spacing between
adjacent cables, etc. – as given in SANS 10198-4) and a cyclic rating factor
(as given in IEC 60853-1) has been developed by Eskom to do this and is
available under “Software” on the Distribution Technology website (“Cable
Tool”).
NOTES added under 4.8.1.8:
Additional capacity made available due to cyclic load profiles should only be
used for contingencies.
IEC 60853-1 allows the engineer to capitalise on the fact that cables have a
long time constant and thus overloads can be applied for limited periods
without the insulating reaching its temperature limit.
4.8.2 Route selection added i.e. from clause 4.8.2.1 to 4.8.2.7
4.8.3 LV cable trenches added i.e. from clause 4.8.3.1 to 4.8.3.17
4.8.4 LV cable pipe ducts added i.e. from clause 4.8.4.1 to 4.8.4.10
4.8.5 Cable installation updated i.e. clauses 4.8.5.2 to 4.8.5.17 added.
4.8.6 Cable termination to overhead lines and pole-transformers added.
4.8.7 Cable transportation and storage expanded i.e. clauses 4.8.7.3 to 4.8.7.16
added to cover cable drums handling.
4.8.8 Cable anti-theft measures added and covered in clauses 4.8.8.1 and 4.8.8.2.
4.9 4.9.1 LV cable joints (see D-DT 8014) shall comply with the requirements of
34-1626.
4.9.2. LV cable terminations shall comply with the requirements of NRS 074-2.
4.9.3 All accessories shall be installed according to the manufacturer’s
installation instructions and SANS 10198-9. LV cable jointers shall be trained
and accredited based upon SANS 10198-9 revised.
4.9.4 All LV cables shall be connected to equipment with lugs having M12
fixing holes.
4.11 New section added: Mini-substations are covered from clause 4.11.1 to
4.11.6.
4.12 Ground mounted transformer requirements added to the standard.
4.13 Meter kiosk, meter panel and distribution kiosks updated.
Reference to Eskom’s drawings and standards for compliance covered.
Cable terminations in meter panel and meter kiosk added.
Locks shall be fitted to meter panels, meter kiosks and distribution kiosk in
accordance with 34-616.
4.14 Installation of meter kiosks and distribution kiosks added.
4.16 Construction clause added.
4.17.2 to Labelling requirements updated.
4.17.4
4.18 Documentation updated.
5.2 Visual inspections updated.
5.3 5.3.1 Electrical tests for a newly installed LV feeder cables shall be subjected
to 3 kV d.c (or 2kV rms a.c) and test voltage in accordance with table C-2 of
1507-1. NOTES added.
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5.3.2 Cable fault location shall be done in accordance with SANS 10198-13.
6 Requirements for operating added.

7.2 Safety for the LV MCCBs installation in mini-substation updated.
7.3 Working on and in the vicinity of live cables added.
Oct 2008 Document Published Oct 2008
Authorisation
This document has been seen and accepted by:
Name Designation
MN Bailey Corporate Manager Divisional Technology
V Singh Power Plant Technologies Manager
T Ramashi Underground Distribution Systems Study Committee Chairman
R Kelly Chief Engineer – Underground Distribution Systems
This standard shall apply throughout the Eskom Distribution Division.
Development team
The specification was originally compiled by Greg Whyte, Dhanjay Ramjass, Tristan Gillard and Rhett
Kelly and has been significantly revised and expanded by Rhett Kelly and Jutas Maudu.
Introduction
This section of the Distribution Standard has been prepared to establish and promote uniform designs for
low-voltage (LV) cable distribution systems. Design engineers should take cognizance of the constraints
regarding system operation and system protection considerations and also of the design opportunities for
effecting further cost savings. Designs should take into consideration proposed future developments and
adjacent supply areas. Underground cabling is generally capital intensive, it is therefore important to
evaluate the commercial viability of the project over its lifetime.
Keywords
underground cable; underground distribution system; accessories; joints; terminations; LV; low-voltage;
standard; PVC; PVC-insulated; standard; mini-substations; ground-mounted transformers; meter kiosks;
distribution kiosks; meter panels
Bibliography
Occupation Health and Safety Act (OHS Act) No 85 of 1993 – Construction, Electrical Machinery and
Explosives Regulations.
Explosives Act No 26 of 1956
Safety at roadworks in urban and rural areas – site manuals (issued by the Department of Transport)
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Page: 8 of 45
1 Scope
This standard covers the general requirements for a LV underground cable distribution system. These
systems are normally fed from MV/LV mini-substations or ground-mounted cable connected transformers
and are used to supply consumers at LV. A LV cable system would typically consist of all or part of the
following:
a) Mini-substations feeding LV meter kiosks, distribution kiosks and meter panels;

b) Ground-mounted transformers feeding meter panels with supplies up to 500 kVA;
c) LPU and SPU meter panels;
d) SPU meter kiosks;
e) Distribution kiosks; and
f) LV feeder cables, service cables and customer cables.
This standard also covers the requirements for LV cable terminations onto overhead lines.
2 Normative references
Parties using this document shall apply the most recent edition of the documents listed below:
34-305, Distribution Standard: Part 8 – Services Section 3: Outdoor low-voltage services for small power
users and larger power users.
34-386, Distribution Standard – Part 17: Specification for 100-500 kVA LPU outdoor meter panels.
34-395, Distribution Standard – Part 17: Specification for 100-500 kVA LPU outdoor meter panels – wall
and ground-mounted.
34-434, Distribution Standard – Part 8: Common base and standard passive units for single-phase 230 V
service connections.
34-609 (SCSAGAAF5), Distribution Standard: Part 3 – Low-voltage reticulation: Section 3: LV protection

philosophy.
34-616 (DISASAAU1), Distribution Standard − Part 12: Standard for the control and application of master
locks and issue of master keys.
34-638, Distribution Standard – Part 12: Standard for low-voltage operating.
34-673, Distribution Standard – Part 12: Procedure for low-voltage operating.
34-820 (SCSPVADG6), Distribution Standard – Part 19: Statutory applications to water authorities.
34-822, (SCSPVADO3), Distribution Standard – Part 19: Statutory applications to local authorities.
34-1439 (DISASAAN0), Distribution Standard − Part 12: Standard for the labelling of sub-stations and
networks.
34-1635 (DISSCAAA9), Particular requirements for prepayment meters.
34-1812, (SCSPVADA4), Distribution Standard – Part 19: Statutory applications to rail authorities.
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34-827, (SCSPVQBA1), Distribution Standard – Part 19: Procedure for the approval of work where
Eskom's rights may be encroached upon and/or services/assets placed at risk.
34-871, Distribution Standard – Part 17: Specification for SPU outdoor meter panels.
34-874 (DISSCABH2), Distribution Standard – Part 17: Specification for 1 MVA LPU outdoor meter
panels.
34-926 (SCSPVABP7), Distribution Standard – Part 21: Procedure for the environmental assessment of
reticulation and sub-transmission projects.
34-1047, Distribution Standard − Part 22: Specification for a ground-mounted, low-voltage distribution
kiosk.
34-1048 (DISSCABA1), Distribution Standard − Part 22: Specification for LV power and control cable with
rated voltage 600/1000 V.
34-1052, Distribution Standard – Part 17: Specification for SPU multi-way outdoor meter kiosks.
34-1143 (DISASADC6), Distribution Standard – Part 12: Standard for identification and spiking of high-
voltage power cable.
34-1175, Distribution Standard – Part 22: General information and requirements for medium-voltage cable
systems.
34-1261 (SCSASAAM0), Distribution Standard: Part 0 – Structures, definitions, abbreviations and

exemptions.
34-1271 (SCSASABG2), Distribution Standard: Part 8 – Services: Section 5: Public lighting.
34-1439 (DISASAAN0), Distribution Standard − Part 12: Standard for the labelling of sub-stations and
networks.
34-1621 (SCSSCAAM7), Distribution Standard − Part 22: Medium-voltage miniature substations for
systems with rated voltages from 11 kV to 22 kV.
34-1626 (DISSCAAX8), Distribution Standard − Part 22: Cable jointing kits for power and control cable
with rated voltage 600/1000V.
34-1627, Distribution Standard − Part 22: Specification for ground-mounted oil-immersed power
transformers up to 1 MVA and 33 kV with MV and LV cable boxes.
34-1895 (SCSASAAL9), Distribution Standard − Part 2: Earthing Section 1 MV and LV reticulation

earthing.
NRS 074-1, Low-voltage (600/1000 V) cable systems for underground electrical distribution – Part 1:
Cables
NRS 074-2, Low-voltage (600/1000 V) cable systems for underground electrical distribution – Part 2:
Cable accessories
SANS 1507, Electric cables with extruded solid dielectric insulation for fixed installations (300/500 V to 1
900/3 300 V).
SANS 10142-1, The wiring of LV premises – Part 1 Low-voltage installations..
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SANS 10198-1, The selection, handling and installation of electric power cables of rating not exceeding
33kV – Part 1 Definitions and statutory requirements.
33kV – Part 2 choice of cable type and methods of installation.
33kV – Part 3 Earthing systems – General provisions.
33kV – Part 4 Current ratings.
33kV – Part 5 Determination of thermal and electrical resistivity of soil.
33kV – Part 6 Transportation and storage.
33kV – Part 7 Safety precautions.
33kV – Part 8 Cable laying and installation.
33kV – Part 9 Jointing and termination of extruded solid dielectric-insulated cables up to 3,3 kV.
33kV – Part 13 Testing, commissioning and fault location.
SANS 10292: Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution systems.
SANS 61238-1, Compression and mechanical connectors for power cables with copper or aluminium
conductors: Part 1 – Test methods and requirements.
VC 8075, Compulsory specification for the safety of electric cables with extruded solid dielectric insulation
for fixed installations (300/500 V to 1 900/3 300 V).
Eskom assembly drawings:
D-DT-0830 (sheet 1), Earthing and bonding arrangement for LV underground cable network (distribution
kiosks).
D-DT-0830 (sheet 2), Earthing and bonding arrangement for LV underground cable network (meter
kiosks).
D-DT-0831 (sheet 1, LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) ≤ 25mm² 2 core, 3 core and 4
core intermediate structure.
D-DT-0831 (sheet 1), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) ≤35mm² 2 core, 35-70mm² 3
core and 35-50mm² 4 core intermediate structure.
D-DT-0831 (sheet 2), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) 70mm² 4 core intermediate
structure.
D-DT-0831 (sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) ≤ 25mm² 2 core, 3 core and 4
core terminal structure.
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D-DT-0831 (sheet 4), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) 35mm² 2 core, 35-70mm² 3
core and 35-50mm² 4 core terminal structure.
D-DT-0831 (sheet 5), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) 70mm² 4 core terminal
structure.
D-DT-0831 (sheet 6), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (unfused) 70mm² 4 core terminal
structure.
D-DT-0832 (sheet 1), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (unfused) ≤ 25mm² 2 core, 3 core
and 4 core intermediate or terminal structure.
D-DT-0832 (sheet 2), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (unfused) 35mm² 2 core, 35-70mm²
3 core and 35-50mm² 4 core intermediate or terminal structure.
D-DT-0832 (sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (unfused) 70-185mm² 4 core
intermediate or terminal structure.
D-DT-0833 (sheet 1), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (unfused) ≤35mm² 2 core, ≤70mm² 3
core, ≤50mm² 4 core.
D-DT-0833 (sheet 2), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (unfused) 1 x 70mm - 185mm² 4 core.
D-DT-0833 (sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (unfused) 2 x 70mm² 4 core or 2 - 3 x
150mm² 4 core.
D-DT-0834 (sheet 1), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (fused) ≤25mm² 2 core, 3 core and 4 core
intermediate structure.
D-DT-0834 (sheet 2), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (fused) 35mm² 2 core, 35-70mm² 3 core
and 35-50mm² 4 core intermediate structure.
D-DT-0834 (sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (fused) 70mm² 4 core intermediate
structure.
D-DT-0834 (sheet 4), LV outdoor cable termination to ABCline (fused) ≤25mm² 2 core, 3 core and 4 core
terminal structure.
D-DT-0834 (sheet 5), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (fused) 35mm² 2 core, 35-70mm² 3 core
and 35-50mm² 4 core terminal structure.
D-DT-0834 (sheet 6), LV outdoor cable termination to ABC line (fused) 70mm² 4 core terminal structure.
D-DT-0835 (sheet 1), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (fused) ≤25mm² 2 core, 3 core and 4
core intermediate or terminal structure.
D-DT-0835 (sheet 2), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (fused) ≤35mm² 2 core, 35-70mm² 3
core and 35-50mm² 4 core intermediate or terminal structure.
D-DT-0835 (sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (fused) 70mm² 4 core intermediate or
terminal structure.
D-DT-0835 (sheet 4), LV outdoor cable termination to open wire line (fused) 70-185mm² 4 core
intermediate or terminal structure.
D-DT-0836 (sheet 1), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (fused) ≤35mm² 2 core,≤ 70mm² 3 core
and ≤ 50mm² 4 core.
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D-DT-0836 (sheet 2), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (fused) 1x70mm² 4 core.
D-DT-0836(sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (fused) 1x95-185mm² 4 core.
D-DT-0836 (sheet 4), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (fused) 2x70mm² 4 core.
D-DT-0854 (sheet 5), MV and LV power cable electrical servics detail.
D-DT-0854 (sheet 7), Installation of MV or LV cables in proximity to other services.
D-DT-0854 (sheet 8), Road reserve - cable and service details.
D-DT-0855 (sheet 1), Mini-substation earthing for MV systems without E.C.C. to source substation.
D-DT-0855 (sheet 2), Mini-substation earthing for MV systems with E.C.C. to source substation.
D-DT-0855 (sheet 3), Mini-substation earthing for mini-substation connected to overhead line.
D-DT-0856, Standard power and control cable codes.
D-DT-0858, Example of as built medium voltage cable layout.
D-DT-0862 (sheet 1), Transformer earthing for MV systems with E.C.C. to source substation.
D-DT-0862 (sheet 2), Transformer earthing for MV systems without E.C.C. to source substation.
D-DT-0862 (sheet 3),Transformer earthing for ground-mounted transformer connected to overhead line.
D-DT-1005, Distribution kiosk, ground-mounted low-voltage.
D-DT-1000, Meter kiosk, 100 kVA – 500 kVA LPU.
D-DT-1023, Meter kiosk, 100 kVA – 500 kVA LPU (wall and ground-mounted).
D-DT-1016, Meter kiosk, 1 MVA LPU.
D-DT-1002, Meter kiosk, SPU three phase 25, 50 and 100 kVA.
D-DT-1015, Meter kiosk, SPU three phase – pre-payment.
D-DT-1004, Meter kiosk, SPU single phase.
D-DT-1011, Meter kiosk, SPU two-way single phase.
D-DT-1019, Meter kiosk, SPU four-way single phase.
D-DT-1020, Meter kiosk, SPU six-way single phase.
D-DT-1012, Meter kiosk, SPU two-way three phase.
D-DT-1018, Meter kiosk, SPU four-way three phase.
D-DT-1017, Standard passive unit for 1-phase 230 V service connections.
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Eskom buyers guide drawings:
D-DT-3034, LV MCCBs.
D-DT-3039, Clamps, IPC.
D-DT-3049, Plate, blank ALU pole MK 25x150mm.
D-DT-3057, Connector, pre-insulated pin – crimp.
D-DT-3058, Clamps, PG.
D-DT-3070, LV cable glands.
D-DT-3090, Coach screw..
D-DT 3102, Lug, crimping Cu.
D-DT-3110, Buckle - stainless steel strapping 12 mm.
D-DT-3116, Lugs, pre-insulated ABC crimp.
D-DT-3127, Pipe, HDPE / LDPE..
D-DT 3128, LV cable.
D-DT-3129, Staple, galvansed.
D-DT-3131, Stainless steel strapping 12 mm.
D-DT-3136, Conductor, overhead line.
D-DT-3138, LV cable tubing sets.
D-DT-3141, Conductor, LV ABC.
D-DT-3145, Meters, pre-payment.
D-DT-3147, LV cable outdoor termination kits.
D-DT-3148, LV cable ends.
D-DT-3166, Lugs, bi-metallic crimp.
D-DT-3170, Wire, barbed galvanised.
D-DT-3171, Passive base units.
D-DT-3181, LV fuses.
D-DT-3182, LV fuse-holders and brackets.
D-DT-3202, Sign, danger electrical symbol 150x150x0.6.
D-DT-3214, LV distribution kiosk.
D-DT-3236, LV meter panels and kiosks.
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D-DT-3229, LV cable gland reducers.
D-DT-3409, LV vertical fuse-holder (for NH2 fuses).
D-DT-8012, Cable route marker, concrete.
D-DT-8013, Cable warning tape.
D-DT 8014, LV cable joint kits, 2-4C 600/1000 V.
D-DT-8015, Cap, cable end seal.
D-DT-8016, Connectors, separable unscreened 11 kV.
D-DT-8017, Connectors, separable screened 22 kV.
D-DT-8018, Pipe, PVC cable.
D-DT-8019, Clamps, cable.
D-DT-8020, Ferrules, cable.
D-DT-8026, Cable, flexible 1-core Cu.
D-DT-8077, Sleeve, cable repair 60-120 1m LG.
D-DT-9420, Meters.
3 Definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Definitions
The definitions in 34-1261, NRS 000, SANS 10198-1 and the following shall apply to this standard:
3.1.1 customer cable
The customer’s cable, used to connect the customer’s plant to the supply at the metering point. The
customer cable uses a separate neutral and earth conductor, so it may be three core armoured cable (for
a single-phase customer) or four core armoured cable with a separate earth continuity conductor for a
three-phase supply.
3.1.2 distribution kiosk
A kiosk used to provide a safe and convenient point at which to connect service cables to the feeder
cable. Each service cable has its own point of control (a miniature circuit-breaker in the distribution kiosk).
No metering is carried out in a distribution kiosk.
3.1.3 low voltage (LV)
A voltage of r.m.s. value not exceeding 1000 V.
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3.1.4 LV feeder cable
The supplier’s three-phase, LV cable to which service cables are connected, through distribution kiosks or
metering kiosks, for the purpose of supplying electricity to consumers. Feeder cables are supplied by
minisubstations but not by ground mounted-transformers. Feeder cables use a combined neutral and
earth system, so four core armoured cables are used.
3.1.5 LV service cable
The supplier’s cable, dedicated to feed one customer only. The service cable uses a combined earth and
neutral, so it may be a two-core armoured cable (for single-phase supplies) or a four-core armoured cable
(for three-phase supplies).
3.1.6 meter kiosk
A kiosk used to provide a safe and convenient point at which to connect customers’ cables to a feeder
cable. Each customer supplied from the meter kiosk is metered individually, by way of a meter in the
meter kiosk. Each customer cable has its own point of control (a miniature circuit-breaker in the meter
kiosk).
3.1.7 meter panel
A kiosk used to provide a safe and convenient point at which to connect a single customer cable to a
service cable. The meter for the customer is housed in the meter panel. The customer supplied will have
a point of control in the meter panel (either a miniature circuit-breaker or a moulded-case circuit-breaker,
depending on the notified maximum demand of the supply.)
3.1.8 miniature substation (or mini-substation)
A factory-assembled and tested free-standing unit that is suitable for use in an area accessible to the
public, that comprises a transformer, an equipped medium-voltage compartment and an equipped low-
voltage compartment and that is suitable for connection to underground cables (NRS 004).
3.1.9 rock
Rock is a naturally occurring aggregate of minerals and/or mineraloids. This type of material can generally
only be excavated after the use of blasting, boulder busting or chemical rock breaking. Pneumatic
(compressor operated) or hydraulically operated rock drilling / breaking equipment may also be used.
3.1.10 shale
Shale (also called mudstone) is a fine-grained sedimentary rock whose original constituents were clay
minerals or muds. It is characterized by thin layers breaking with an irregular curving fracture, often
splintery. Shale is the most common sedimentary rock. This type of material can be excavated by means
of a pick and shovel or a mechanical excavator (back-actor).
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3.1.11 soil
Soil is the naturally occurring, unconsolidated or loose covering of broken rock particles and decaying
organic matter (humus) on the surface of the Earth. Soil particles pack loosely, forming a soil structure
filled with voids. This type of material can be excavated by means of a pick and shovel or a mechanical
excavator (back-actor).
3.2 Abbreviations
The abbreviations in 34-1261, NRS 000 and the following shall apply to this standard:
3.2.1 ABC: aerial bundled conductor.
3.2.2 ACSR: aluminium conductor steel reinforced.
3.2.3 HDPE: high density polyethylene.
3.2.4 IPC: insulation piercing connector.
3.2.5 LPU: large power user.
3.2.6 LV: low voltage.
3.2.7 MCB: miniature circuit breaker.
3.2.8 MCCB: moulded case circuit breaker (also referred to as a large frame circuit breaker).
3.2.9 PEN: protective earth and neutral.
3.2.10 SPU: small power user.
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4 Requirements
4.1 Statutory requirements
4.1.1 The requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Act 85 of 1993, (OHS Act) and all
subsequent amendments and regulations shall be observed and adhered to except where exemption has
been obtained from the Chief Factories Inspector. If any text or drawings in this standard are in conflict
with the OHS Act and no exemption has been obtained, the OHS Act requirements shall take precedence
over the standard.
4.1.2 The requirements of SANS 10198-1 shall be observed and adhered to except where exemption has
been obtained from the relevant authority.
4.2 Other statutory bodies
4.2.1 Other statutory bodies from which permission may have to be obtained are:
a) National roads agency;
b) Provincial and/or metropolitan roads agencies;
c) Dept. of Water and Forestry;
d) Dept. of Environmental Affairs and Tourism;
e) local metropolitan / municipal town councils; and
f) any other statutory body that may be considered a stakeholder.
4.2.2 Applications to the water, rail and local authorities shall be made in accordance with 34-820, 34-
1812 and 34-822.
4.3 Servitude and wayleave agreements
4.3.1 LV feeder cables that traverse private property shall have wayleave agreements signed with the
property owner.
4.3.2 The special requirements of municipal wayleaves shall be considered.
4.3.3 The regional Network Services Department - Land Development Section shall be consulted for
further details regarding wayleave agreements.
4.3.4 In the event that Eskom’s rights (servitudes / wayleaves) may be encroached upon and / or
services / assets placed at risk, the requirements of 34-827 shall be followed.
4.4 Environmental considerations
4.4.1 The requirements of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) and
Eskom’s environmental directives, policies and procedures shall be observed and adhered to except
where exemption has been obtained from the relevant authority.
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4.4.2 An environmental assessment shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements of 34-926.
4.5 Performance and operability requirements
4.5.1 General
4.5.1.1 Cable systems shall be planned and designed to ensure that the desired network performance is
achievable. The Field Services section shall be consulted to ensure optimisation of the network.
4.5.1.2 Only products that are listed as accepted and published on the Eskom Distribution List of
Accepted Products (LAP) shall be used.
4.5.2 Plant location
The location of plant e.g. mini-substations, ground mounted transformers, meter kiosks, meter panels and
distribution kiosks shall be decided upon considering the following factors:
a) vehicular and pedestrian traffic;
b) environmental impact;
c) water run-off;
e) accessibility for ease of operation and maintenance; and
f) location of other underground services, for example Telkom, water etc.
4.5.3 System configuration
4.5.3.1 LV feeder cables shall be supplied from mini-substations (see 34-1621).
4.5.3.2 LV feeder cables shall follow the route of roads.
4.5.3.3 The LV feeder cables shall supply 2-way meter kiosks (for SPU services) or distribution kiosks (for
prepayment services).
NOTE The use of 4-way and 6-way meter kiosks requires special approval from the project engineer and may only be used
in exceptional circumstances (e.g. for cul-de-sac layouts where more than two properties converge to a common point or for
small developments having 6 or less customers where the metering is done on the boundary of such a development).
4.5.3.4 Single-phase and three-phase SPUs (e.g. residential properties) shall be supplied using customer
cables fed from meter kiosks or meter panels.
4.5.3.5 Pre-payment SPUs shall be supplied using service cables fed from distribution kiosks.
4.5.3.6 Three-phase LPUs shall be supplied using service cables fed from a mini-substation or ground-
mounted transformer.
4.5.3.7 Mini-substations shall be positioned as near as possible to the load centres to minimise technical
(I2R) losses.
4.5.3.8 Ground-mounted transformers shall be positioned at the customer’s property boundary.
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4.5.3.9 A service cable from a ground-mounted transformer (see 34-1627) to a SPU or LPU meter panel
shall not be more than 10 m.
NOTE There is no provision for mounting protective devices in ground-mounted transformers, and therefore services cables
do not have protection. For a short cable the risk of a fault is minimal and is accepted.
4.5.4 Protection philosophy
The general protection philosophy for LV cable systems shall be as follows:
a) Overcurrent protection devices shall be used;
b) LV feeder cables from mini-substations shall be protected with either MCCBs (see D-DT-3034) or
“NH2” fuses (see D-DT-3409 and D-DT-3181).
c) LV service cables from distribution kiosks shall be protected using MCBs (see D-DT-3034);
d) LV customer cables from meter kiosks or meter panels shall be protected using either MCBs or
MCCBs (see D-DT-3034);
e) The rupturing capacity of the protective device shall be based upon prospective three-phase fault
levels;
f) The operating characteristic shall be based upon the phase-to-neutral fault levels; and
g) For further information on Eskom’s LV protection philosophy, see 34-609.
NOTE High resistance faults on LV networks are discussed in 34-609.
4.6 Earthing philosophy
The general earthing philosophy for LV cable systems shall be in accordance with 34-1895 and the
following:
4.6.1 The TN-C-S system earthing philosophy (see 34-1895 and SANS 10292) shall be used for all LV
underground cable networks;
NOTE A separate earthing conductor is therefore not required up to the customers point of supply. The neutral conductor
serves as a combined protective earth and neutral (PEN) conductor.
4.6.2 The combined protective earth and neutral conductor (PEN) shall be earthed at the source MV/LV
transformer;
4.6.3 The bonding and earthing at the mini-substation, distribution kiosks and meter kiosks shall be in
accordance with D-DT 0830;
4.6.4 The earthing for mini-substations shall be in accordance with D-DT-0855;
4.6.5 The earthing for ground-mounted transformers shall be in accordance with D-DT 0862;
NOTE The requirements for the MV and LV earth electrodes associated with mini-substations and ground-mounted
transformers are described in 34-1175.
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4.6.6 The cable armouring shall be bonded to the earth bar or earth terminal by mechanical glands via
the gland plate;
NOTE Lugging of the armour wires and connecting them to the earth bar or earth terminal may only be done in existing
installations where there are no gland plates provided. In this case, all the armour wires are to be used.
4.6.7 Continuity of the cable armouring shall be maintained at all cable joints by using a main earthing
conductor (tinned copper braid) in accordance with 34-1626. The main earthing conductor shall be
connected to the armour wires at both sides of the joint using constant force springs or armour clamps;
4.6.8 All exposed conductive parts of a consumer’s installation shall be connected via the consumer’s
separate protective earth conductor and consumer earth terminal to the supply earth terminal at the point
of supply.
NOTES
3) The supply earth terminal, in turn, is connected to the protective earth and neutral (PEN) conductor of the LV system.
4) Where distribution kiosks are installed, a service cable having a PEN conductor is used to supply the consumer. The
service cable PEN is connected to the LV feeder cable PEN at the distribution kiosk.
4.7 Metering philosophy

The metering philosophy and requirements shall be in accordance with 34-305.
4.8 Low-voltage cables
4.8.1 Cable selection
4.8.1.1 Low-voltage cable (see D-DT 3128) shall comply with the requirements of 34-1048 and shall have
copper conductors.
NOTES
c) Compulsory safety specification VC 8075 stipulates that all low-voltage cables in South Africa comply with the
requirements of SANS 1507.
d) The world market price of copper and aluminium dictates the type of conductor that is most cost effective at any
time, however copper conductors have been chosen for the following reasons:
a. the core and outer diameters of a copper conductor cable are smaller for equivalent ampacity than an
aluminium conductor cable – facilitating easier working when jointing and terminating;
b. compression methods are simple for copper conductors whereas there are numerous differing opinions
regarding the crimping requirements for aluminium cables; and
c. copper conductor cables do not require bi-metallic lugs when connecting to equipment fitted with brass
stem bushings.
4.8.1.2 Feeder cables shall be four-core, three-phase armoured cables.
4.8.1.3 Service cables may be any one of the following: two-core armoured cable for single-phase
supplies, four core armoured cable for three-phase supplies or single core armoured cable for LPU
supplies > 500 kVA.
4.8.1.4 Customer cables will typically be either three core armoured cable for single-phase supplies or
four core armoured cable with an earth continuity conductor (ECC) for three-phase supplies.
4.8.1.5 For the purpose of labelling of drawings and purchasing, a method of cable coding has been
implemented by Eskom (see D-DT 0856).
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4.8.1.6 The cable cross-sectional area shall be chosen to suit the network load requirement as well as the
prospective symmetrical fault level of the system. The symmetrical and earth fault levels of the cables are
given in tables 1 to 4 below. Further information on fault levels are available in SANS 10198-4:
4.8.1.7 The standard cable sizes and current ratings for use within Eskom are given in table 5:
Table 1 – Symmetrical fault levels for 600/1000 V extruded solid dielectric insulated armoured
cables with copper conductors – initial conductor temperature 70 ºC, final conductor temperature
150 ºC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Nominal Fault duration, s
conductor size, 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,6 1,0 2,0 3,0
2
mm Fault current, kA
16 3,94 3,21 2,78 2,27 1,76 1,25 1,02
25 6,15 5,02 4,35 3,55 2,75 1,95 1,59
35 8,61 7,03 6,09 4,97 3,85 2,72 2,22
70 17,22 14,06 12,18 9,94 7,70 5,45 4,45
120 29,52 24,10 20,87 17,04 13,20 9,33 7,62
150 36,90 30,13 26,09 21,30 16,50 11,67 9,53
185 45,50 37,15 32,18 26,27 20,35 14,39 11,75
240 59,03 48,20 41,74 34,08 26,40 18,70 15,24
Table 2 – Earth fault levels for 600/1000 V 2-core extruded solid dielectric insulated armoured
cables with copper conductors – steel wire temperature 60 ºC to 160 ºC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
conductor size, 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,6 1,0 2,0 3,0
2
16 3,8 3,05 2,65 2,2 1,8 1,2 1,0
25 6,0 4,9 4,3 3,5 2,7 1,9 1,5
35 6,8 5,4 4,7 3,8 2,9 2,1 1,7
70 7,4 6,0 5,1 4,3 3,3 2,3 1,9
120 13,0 10,5 9,2 7,6 5,8 4,2 3,4
150 14,5 12,0 10,2 8,4 6,6 4,6 3,8
185 20,0 16,0 14,0 11,5 9,0 6,3 5,2
240 23,0 19,0 16,0 13,0 10,0 7,1 5,8
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
conductor size, 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,6 1,0 2,0 3,0
2
25 6,6 5,4 4,7 3,8 3,0 2,1 1,7
35 7,4 6,0 5,2 4,3 3,3 2,3 1,9
70 11,5 9,4 8,2 6,6 5,2 3,7 3,0
120 13,5 11,0 9,6 7,8 6,0 4,3 3,5
150 19,0 15,6 13,5 11,0 8,5 6,0 4,8
185 21,5 17,5 15,0 12,4 9,7 6,9 5,6
240 24,0 19,5 17,0 14,0 10,7 7,6 6,2
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
conductor size, 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,6 1,0 2,0 3,0
2
35 8,5 7,0 6,0 4,9 3,85 2,7 2,2
70 15,0 12,0 10,2 8,3 6,3 4,4 3,6
120/150 22,0 18,0 15,6 12,8 9,7 7,0 5,7
185 25,0 20,5 17,7 14,3 11,0 7,9 6,5
240 28,0 23,0 19,8 16,0 12,5 8,8 7,2
Table 5 – 600/1000 V extruded solid dielectric-insulated armoured cables – max. conductor

temperature 70 ºC
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Standard rating, A
Nominal
In ground In pipes In air
conductor size,
2 3- or 4- 3- or 4- 3- or 4-
mm 2-core 2-core 2-core
core core core
16 107 91 88 75 96 82
25 142 119 116 96 128 109
35 171 143 139 116 156 133
70 - 210 - 171 - 205
120 - 285 - 234 - 291
150 - 320 - 263 - 334
185 - 361 - 298 - 383
240 - 416 - 344 - 451
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NOTE: The sustained current-carrying capacities calculated in table 5 are based upon the standard installation conditions
proposed by SANS 10198-4. The above tables have been compiled from data given in SANS 10198-4. The standard
conditions are as follows:
a) maximum sustained conductor temperature for cables laid in ground or single way ducts = 70 ºC.;
b) soil temperature at depth of burial = 25 ºC;
c) ambient air temperature = 30 ºC;
d) thermal resistivity of soil = 1,2 Km/W;
e) depth of laying to top surface of cable or single way duct in ground = 0,5 m (see D-DT-0854);
f) load factor = 1;
g) each cable is assumed to be thermally independent;
4.8.1.8 Where actual installation conditions differ significantly from the standard conditions the sustained
current-carrying capacity given in table 5 shall be modified by the appropriate rating factors. A quick
calculation tool that includes both steady-state rating factors (soil temperature, air temperature, soil
thermal resistivity, depth of burial, spacing between adjacent cables, etc. – as given in SANS 10198-4)
and a cyclic rating factor (as given in IEC 60853-1) has been developed by Eskom to do this and is
available under “Software” on the Distribution Technology website (“Cable Tool”).
NOTES
1) Additional capacity made available due to cyclic load profiles should only be used for contingencies.
2) IEC 60853-1 allows the engineer to capitalise on the fact that cables have a long time constant and thus overloads can
be applied for limited periods without the insulating reaching its temperature limit.
4.8.2 Route selection
4.8.2.1 The cable route shall be the most practical and economical route available and where possible
cables shall be installed on the northern and western sides of the street.
4.8.2.2 Electrical services shall be kept on opposite side of road to telecommunication and water services
where practically possible.
4.8.2.3 The cable trench shall be installed within the road reserve at a distance of 1 m from the property
boundary.
4.8.2.4 Provision shall be made for the following:
a) at joint bays, an additional 1 m of cable shall be provided for each joint;
b) at ground-mounted equipment terminations, an additional 2 m of cable shall be provided for each

cable end; and
c) at terminations to overhead lines, an additional 10 m of cable shall be provided for each cable
end
4.8.2.5 The excavation of trial holes shall be used to identify and to establish the positions of existing
services on the cable route that may affect the depth of burial or spacing of the cables.
4.8.2.6 The existence of other cables or heat sources along the proposed route shall be ascertained not
only from a practical point of view but also because of the possibility of mutual heating, causing de-rating
of the cables.
4.8.2.7 Any bridge crossings shall be designed by a professional civil/structural engineer and shall include
precautions to cater for the expansion and vibration of the bridge.
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4.8.3 Trenches
4.8.3.1 Where the surface to be excavated will require a permanent re-instatement by a local authority or
contractor the surface cut shall be made with an edged tool and shall be cut as cleanly and evenly as
possible.
4.8.3.2 LV cable trench details shall be in accordance with D-DT-0854.
4.8.3.3 The Project Engineer shall approve any variations from the depth specified in D-DT-0854. Where
the presence of existing services makes it necessary to increase the depth of the trench, the trench shall
be returned to nominal depth as soon as is practical.
4.8.3.4 For road or rail crossings, the depth of cable shall be increased in accordance with D-DT-0854.
4.8.3.5 Where a change in trench level is necessary, the bottom of the trench shall rise or fall gradually
and smoothly.
4.8.3.6 Trenches shall be kept as straight as possible and the radius of bends shall be tight, however
never less than the minimum bending radius of the cable given in table 6.
Table 6 – Installation minimum bending radii for LV cables

1 2 3 4
Installation minimum bending radii
2
16 – 50 mm ≥ 70mm2
8×D 10 × D
NOTE D refers to the overall diameter of the cable
4.8.3.7 The transport, storage and the use of explosives shall comply with the provision of the Explosives
Act No 26 of 1956 and the Explosives Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act No 85 of
1993. A copy of blasting permits issued to workmen and permits issued to the contractor to cover the
purchase, storage and transport of explosives shall be given to the project clerk of works.
4.8.3.8 The material excavated from the trench shall be placed adjacent to the trench leaving a walk-way
of at least 500 mm on both sides of the trench. This shall be done in such a manner as to prevent
interference or damage to adjacent hedges, trees, drains or other property along the cable route. Where
site conditions make this impossible, the excavated materials may, with the approval of the Project
Engineer, be removed from the site and returned for re-filling the trench on completion of laying. All
surplus material, from whatever source, shall be disposed of by the Contractor.
4.8.3.9 If steel plates are to be used to allow vehicular access across a trench then they shall be in
accordance with a design done by a professional civil/structural engineer. The plates shall be either
installed flush with the road and supported on 'I' beams or, if used as a plate across a trench, then the
plate shall be pinned to the road surface with suitable spikes to prevent it moving. The plate shall provide
a skid-proof surface for motor vehicles.
4.8.3.10 Excavated trenches that are accessible to the public or that are adjacent to public roads or
thoroughfares, or where the safety of persons may be endangered, shall be adequately and effectively
protected by a barrier or fence of at least one metre in height and as close to the excavation as is
practicable. Warning or danger tapes are not acceptable. Warning illumination or any other clearly visible
boundary indicators shall be provided at night or when visibility is poor.
4.8.3.11 The trench bedding and blanket soil around the cable shall be in accordance with SANS 10198-8
requirements for bedding. A sieve having a mesh size of no larger than 12 mm may be used to sift the
excavated soil. Alternatively, suitable bedding and blanket soil shall be imported.
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4.8.3.12 The trench backfilling shall be in accordance with SANS 10198-8.

NOTE SANS 10198-5 contains descriptions of the various types of soils and their respective suitability for cable surround
soil (bedding and blanket soil) and backfill material.
4.8.3.13 The bedding soil shall be installed and compacted prior to cable installation. Blanket soil shall be
compacted using hand compaction tools. Backfill material shall be compacted in layers of maximum
thickness 300 mm. The level of compaction (see D-DT-0854) shall be measured at appropriate intervals
using an approved method.
NOTE A dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) may be used to measure the level of compaction.
4.8.3.14 Warning tape (see D-DT-8013) shall be installed directly above the cable at a depth of 300 mm
below natural ground level in accordance with D-DT-0854.
4.8.3.15 The backfill requirements and required level of compaction for road surface re-instatement shall
be in accordance with the relevant road agency specification and shall take precedence over the
requirements of D-DT-0854.
4.8.3.16 All pavements, roads and driveway crossings shall be re-instated to their original state.
4.8.3.17 Where re-instatement of surfaces cannot be done immediately, a 50 mm compacted crown shall
be added above the natural ground level (NGL) to allow for erosion.
4.8.4 Cable pipe ducts
4.8.4.1 Cable crossing roads or railways shall be installed in PVC/PE pipes (see D-DT-8018). The axial
spacing of the pipe ducts shall be at least equal to the cable spacing on the direct-buried sections.
NOTE Non-ferrous pipes must be used for single core cables to avoid the effects of magnetic induction.
4.8.4.2 The internal diameter of the pipe shall be at least 1,5 × D with a minimum clearance of 35 mm in
accordance with SANS 10198-8.
4.8.4.3 All pipe ducts shall have a minimum surround of 75 mm of concrete to prevent collapsing or
deformation after backfilling. The concrete strength shall be at least 15 MPA. If underground bulleting has
been used to install the pipe ducts, the concrete surround is not required.
NOTE Underground bulleting equipment is used to drill holes that correspond to the pipe diameter being installed.
4.8.4.4 Pipe ducts shall, where possible, project a minimum of 1 m beyond the kerb lines (or other
services) so as to completely clear the surface of the carriageway. For dual carriageways and divided
highways the pipe ducts shall continue in an unbroken line under the central divider. For railway
crossings, the pipe ducts shall project a minimum of 3 m beyond the outermost rails.
4.8.4.5 PVC/PE pipes may be bent in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions however the radii
shall not be less than the cable minimum bending radii given in table 6.
4.8.4.6 All pipe ducts shall be sealed until the cable is installed.
4.8.4.7 Before commencing to draw a cable into a pipe duct, a cylindrical wire brush followed by a mop
and a close-fitting mandrel shall be drawn through to clean out any dirt and ensure that the pipe duct has
not collapsed.
4.8.4.8 The cable shall be de-rated to the rating of a cable installed in a pipe if more than 10 m of cable in
every 100 m is installed in a pipe.
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4.8.4.9 Spare pipe ducts shall be installed for road, railway, river and other service crossings. The number
of spare pipe ducts shall be determined by the Project Engineer.
4.8.4.10 Spare pipe ducts shall always be sealed at the ends to prevent ingress of water, vermin and
backfill material.
4.8.5 Cable installation
4.8.5.1 Contractors installing cable shall be in possession of all parts of SANS 10198 and shall work
according to that code of practice and this standard. Where a situation arises that is not covered by
SANS 10198 or this standard the contractor shall consult the Project Engineer.
4.8.5.2 The LV cable depth and positioning within the trench shall be in accordance with D-DT-0854 sheet
6.
NOTES
1) Where more than one cable is installed in the same trench, a minimum spacing of 300 mm between cables should be
maintained where possible. De-rating factors are applicable.
2) When trenching in rocky ground, a minimum of 150 mm should be kept between the cable and the trench side wall in
order to prevent damage to the cable when the trench is back-filled.
4.8.5.3 Cable laying and installation shall be in accordance with SANS 10198-2 and SANS 10198-8 and,
unless otherwise specified, shall be by direct burial in accordance with D-DT-0854.
NOTE The key objectives of correct cable installation are the following:
1) Cables are not over bent;
2) Cables outer sheaths are not damaged or scratched; and
3) Cable kinks or twists are prevented.
4.8.5.4 MV and LV cable laid in the same trench shall be installed in accordance with D-DT-0854 sheet 5.
4.8.5.5 Cable crossing roads or railways shall be installed in pipe ducts (see D-DT-8018).
4.8.5.6 Cables running parallel to or crossing other services shall be installed in accordance with D-DT-
0854 sheet 7.
4.8.5.7 Prior to cable pulling, pipe ducts shall be fitted with bellmouths at both ends to prevent damage to
the cable and a suitable lubricant shall be applied to the inside of the pipe.
4.8.5.8 Prior to cable pulling, the cable shall be inspected for damage and both ends checked to verify
that the cable ends were suitably capped. Damaged or uncapped cable shall not be installed.
4.8.5.9 Prior to cable pulling, the cable inner end shall be cut free from the cable drum flange.
4.8.5.10 The cable outer end shall be fitted with either a cable pulling sock.
NOTE A cable pulling sock applies tension to the cable outer layers.
4.8.5.11 A swivel (fitted with a bearing to reduce friction) shall be used between the pulling rope and the
cable pulling sock.
4.8.5.12 When nose pulling the cable, the pulling tension shall not exceed the manufacturers
recommendations.
4.8.5.13 Cables shall be pulled either by hand (only where the conditions are suitable and by using a
team and leader) or by using a winch.
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4.8.5.14 When a winch is used, it shall be fitted with a reliable and accurate dynamometer whether the
cable is nose pulled or bond pulled and it shall be monitored throughout the pull.
4.8.5.15 Cable rollers shall be carefully positioned in the trench in the line that the cable is to follow. The
rollers shall be spaced so that there is no appreciable cable sag between rollers. A spacing of 2 m is
normally suitable but this distance shall be reduced if appreciable sagging is seen to occur. Where
appropriate, skid plates or corner rollers shall be used.
4.8.5.16 Laid cable that is not immediately jointed or terminated (whether prior to being laid, already laid,
still on the cable drum or in transport) shall be sealed by means of cable end caps (see D-DT-8015).
NOTE Only in emergency conditions (i.e. only if no end caps or heat shrink equipment is available) may ‘DENSO’ tape be
used to temporarily seal the end of a cable (see D-DT-3213). If DENSO tape has been used, the cable shall be capped
within 24 hours.
4.8.5.17 Cable end caps shall be inspected for damage prior to and after cable laying. Damaged end caps
shall be removed and replaced.
4.8.5.18 Cable outer sheaths damaged during installation shall immediately be repaired using a cable
repair sleeve (see D-DT-8077).
4.8.6 Cable terminations to overhead lines and pole-mounted transformers
4.8.6.1 Outdoor cable terminations shall be used to terminate LV cables onto overhead lines as follows:
4.8.6.1.1 For cables ≤ 70 mm2 3-core, a cable end cap (see D-DT-3148) and tubing set (see D-DT-3138)
shall be used.
4.8.6.1.2 For cables ≥ 70 mm2 4-core, an outdoor termination kit (see D-DT-3147) shall be used.
NOTE Outdoor LV cable terminations do make provision for earthing the cable armouring. Earthing of the cable armouring
is done at the equipment to which the cable is connected.
4.8.6.2 The cable shall be securely strapped to the pole at 1 m intervals using 12 mm stainless steel
strapping (see D-DT-3131) and strap buckles (see D-DT-3110). Additional off-cuts from the cable outer
sheath shall be applied around the cable in order to protect the cable outer sheath from being damaged
by the strapping.
4.8.6.3 For terminations onto open-wire lines, an anti-climbing measure / device shall be installed
consisting of barbed-wire (see D-DT-3170) wrapped around the pole and secured using galvanised steel
staples (see D-DT-3129). The barbed wire shall be installed at least 3 m above ground level. Additional
off-cuts from the cable outer sheath shall be applied around the cable in order to protect the cable outer
sheath from being punctured by the barbed wire.
4.8.6.4 An electrical warning / hazard sign (see D-DT-3202) shall be fitted to the pole. The warning sign
shall be installed at a height of 3 m or immediately below the barbed wire anti-climbing device.
4.8.6.5 LV cable terminations to overhead ABC lines (un-fused) shall be in accordance with D-DT-0831.
The cable phase conductors shall be connected to the ABC phase conductors using IPCs (see D-DT-
3039). The cable neutral conductor shall be connected to the bare ABC neutral conductor using two IPCs
suitable for connection onto a bare neutral conductor (see D-DT-3039).
4.8.6.6 LV cable terminations to open-wire lines (un-fused) shall be in accordance with D-DT-0832. The
cable phase conductors shall be connected to the open wire line phase conductors using PG clamps (see
D-DT-3058). The cable neutral conductor shall be connected to the open wire line neutral conductor using
two bi-metallic PG clamps (see D-DT-3058).
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4.8.6.7 LV cable terminations to pole-mounted transformers (un-fused) shall be in accordance with D-DT-
0833. The cable phase and neutral conductors shall be connected to the transformer bushings using lugs
having M12 fixing holes (see D-DT-3102).
4.8.6.8 Where the LV cable run is > 10 m from the termination pole, the cable shall be fuse protected
using LV ‘NH’ type fuses (see D-DT-3181) and fuse-holders (see D-DT-3182). The fuse-holders shall be
mounted using a LV fuse-holder bracket (see D-DT-3182) and secured to the pole using coach screws
(see D-DT-3090).
NOTE The 160 A LV fuse-holders (suitable for ‘NH 00’ size fuses) have built-in conductor clamps on the line and load sides
that are suitable for the direct connection of aluminium conductors (one incoming and two outgoing). The 400 A LV fuse-
holders (suitable for ‘NH 2’ size fuses) have built-in conductor clamps on the line side that are suitable for the direct
connection of aluminium conductors and built-in conductor clamps on the load side that are suitable for the direct connection
of copper conductors (one incoming and two outgoing).
4.8.6.9 LV cable terminations to overhead ABC lines (fused) shall be in accordance with D-DT-0834. The
cable phase conductors shall be connected to the 160 A LV fuse-holders using pin connectors (see D-DT-
3057). ABC phase conductors (see D-DT-3141) shall be used as jumpers between the LV fuse-holders
and the ABC phase conductors. The jumpers shall be connected to the ABC phase conductors using
IPCs (see D-DT-3039) and connected to the LV fuse-holders using the LV built-in fuse-holder conductor
clamps. The cable neutral conductor shall be connected directly to the bare ABC neutral conductor using
two IPCs suitable for connection onto a bare neutral conductor (see D-DT-3039).
4.8.6.10 LV cable terminations to open wire lines (fused) shall be in accordance with D-DT-0835. The
cable phase conductors shall be connected to the 160 A LV fuse-holders using pin connectors (see D-DT-
3057). Where 400 A fuse-holders are used, the cable phase conductors shall be connected using the 400
A built-in fuse-holder conductor clamps. 70mm2 ABC phase conductors (see D-DT-3141) shall be used as
jumpers between the 160 A LV fuse-holders and the open wire line phase conductors. ACSR Hare
conductors (see D-DT-3136) covered with HDPE pipe (see D-DT-3127) shall be used as jumpers
between the 400 A LV fuse-holders and the open wire line phase conductors. The jumpers shall be
connected to the open wire line phase conductors using PG clamps (see D-DT-3058) and connected to
the LV fuse-holders using the LV built-in fuse-holder conductor clamps. The cable neutral conductor shall
be connected directly to the open wire line neutral conductor using two bi-metallic PG clamps (see D-DT-
3058).
4.8.6.11 LV cable terminations to pole-mounted transformers (fused) shall be in accordance with D-DT-
0836. The cable phase conductors shall be connected to the 160 A LV fuse-holders using pin connectors
(see D-DT-3057). Where 400 A fuse-holders are used, the cable phase conductors shall be connected
using the 400 A built-in fuse-holder conductor clamps. 70mm2 ABC phase conductors (see D-DT-3141)
shall be used as jumpers between the 160 A LV fuse-holders and the transformer. ACSR Hare
conductors (see D-DT-3136) covered with HDPE pipe (see D-DT-3127) shall be used as jumpers
between the 400 A LV fuse-holders and the transformer. ABC jumpers shall be connected to the
transformer bushing / flags using pre-insulated ABC lugs having M12 fixing holes (see D-DT-3116) and
connected to the LV fuse-holders using the LV built-in fuse-holder conductor clamps. ACSR jumpers shall
be connected to the transformer bushing / flags using bi-metallic lugs having M12 fixing holes (see D-DT-
3166) and connected to the LV fuse-holders using the LV built-in fuse-holder conductor clamps. The cable
neutral conductor shall be connected directly to the transformer neutral bushing / flag using lugs having
M12 fixing holes (see D-DT-3102).
4.8.7 Cable transportation and storage
4.8.7.1 Cable shall be transported and stored in accordance with SANS 10198-6.
4.8.7.2 Cable ends on cable drums shall be sealed by cable end caps (see D-DT-8015).
4.8.7.3 Cable end caps shall be regularly inspected for damage or cracks that may have occurred after
any handling, transport, storage. Damaged end caps shall be removed and replaced.
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4.8.7.4 Cable on damaged drums shall be re-drummed on a drum having a barrel diameter no smaller
than the original to avoid over bending.
4.8.7.5 Drums shall be stored on a hard-surface that has an efficient draining system.
4.8.7.6 Cable drums shall be so arranged that they are easily identifiable, accessible and that they may
be released on a “first in – first out” basis.
4.8.7.7 Drums shall be rolled only in the direction indicated on the drum.
4.8.7.8 Drum bolts shall be tight at all times.
4.8.7.9 Before off-loading, drums shall be checked for damage.

NOTE Any defects should be reported to the site supervisor and should include a written statement and photograph.
Experience has shown that this is the best method of insuring a successful claim for the damages from the transporters
insurance company
4.8.7.10 Drums shall be lifted by a crane or forklift of suitable size and carrying capacity.
NOTE The gross mass is indicated on the cable drum.
4.8.7.11 If a crane is used, the correct lifting bar (spindle) and slings shall be used and these shall be in
good condition. A spreader bar shall be used to prevent the slings from damaging the drum flanges.
4.8.7.12 If a fork-lift is used, the forks shall extend to both flanges to ensure that the weight of the drum is
evenly distributed on both flanges. If necessary, fork extensions shall be used. Care shall be taken in
order to prevent the forks from damaging the cable drums (battens and flanges). The forks of the forklift
shall not be used to push or pull the cable drum along the ground.
4.8.7.13 Cable drums shall not be dropped or laid flat.
4.8.7.14 If rolled off the truck, the maximum ramp slope shall be 1 in 4.
4.8.7.15 LV cable drums shall be transported using a cable trailer. If this is not possible, drums may be
transported by truck.
4.8.7.16 When transporting by truck, all cable drums shall be secured (e.g. chained) to the truck bed to
prevent them from rolling or sliding.
4.8.8 Cable anti-theft measures
In order to assist with cable theft forensic investigations and proof of cable ownership, cable shall be
marked in accordance with the requirements of 34-1048.
4.9 LV cable accessories
4.9.1 LV cable joints (see D-DT 8014) shall comply with the requirements of 34-1626.
4.9.2 LV cable terminations shall comply with the requirements of NRS 074-2.
4.9.3 All accessories shall be installed according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions and SANS
10198-9. LV cable jointers shall be trained and accredited based upon SANS 10198-9.
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4.9.4 All LV cables shall be connected to equipment with lugs having M12 fixing holes.
4.10 Lugs, ferrules and crimping
4.10.1 Lugs and ferrules (see D-DT 3102 and D-DT 8018) shall comply with the requirements of SANS
61238-1.
4.10.2 All lugs and ferrules shall be compressed using a hexagonal die crimping system.
4.11 Mini-substations
4.11.1 For mini-substations of rating ≤ 500 kVA, LV feeder cable protection shall be in accordance with
the requirements of table 7.
Table 7 – LV feeder cable protection requirements

1 2 3 4
LV jumper cable size
LV feeder cable size
MCCB rating [A] Fuse-rating [A] [mm2] (Cu) – MCCBs
[mm2] (Cu)
only
70 225 200 70
120 300 250 185
150 300 315 185
185 350 355 185
NOTES
1) A maximum number of 5 LV feeder cables can be supplied from a Type A mini-substation.
2) A maximum number of 6 LV feeder cables can be supplied from a Type B mini-substation.
4.11.2 The protection of LV Service cables shall be in accordance with 34-305.
4.11.3 LV MCCBs shall be supplied from the mini-substation LV busbars using flexible single-core
jumper cables (see D-DT-8026) and lugs (see D-DT-3102) in accordance with table 7.
4.11.4 LV feeder cables shall be terminated using mechanical glands with shrouds (see D-DT-3070) and
lugs (see D-DT-3102). Where applicable, cable gland reducers (see D-DT-3229) shall be fitted. The size
of cable gland and reducer (if applicable) shall be in accordance with table 8.
Table 8 – LV feeder cable gland requirements (mini-substations, distribution kiosks, meter kiosks)
1 2 3 4
LV feeder cable Mechanical gland Gland reducer
Hole size
size [mm2] (Cu) size size
70 M63 No. 5 M63-M50
120 M63 No. 5 M63-M50
150 M63 No. 6 N/A
185 M63 No. 6 N/A
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4.11.5 Mini-substations of rating 1000 kVA shall only be used to supply single large power user (LPU)
customers. The customer shall have access to the customer and control panels. The customer’s point of
supply shall be the LV busbars in the customer panel of the mini-substation. The customer shall provide
and ensure that his/her over-current protection is adequately rated and selected to provide full
discrimination with Eskom’s upstream protection. The customer shall either:
a) install his/her own over-current protection in the customer panel (i.e. circuit breakers / vertical
fuse-holders) for each LV feeder cable supplied from the mini-substation, or
b) install his/her own LV distribution assembly (panel / kiosk) which shall be supplied using
adequately rated LV cables terminated directly onto the mini-substation LV busbars in the
customer panel. The LV distribution assembly shall include the customer’s over-current protection
for the customer’s electrical installation.
NOTE The customer’s electrical installation (from the point of supply) is required to comply with the requirements of SANS
10142-1.
4.11.6 Locks shall be fitted to mini-substations in accordance with 34-616.

NOTES
1) The MV door(s) of a mini-substation and the outdoor sub-switching station enclosure door shall be locked using
“Operating” locks.
2) The LV doors of a mini-substation shall be locked using a “Prohibited Area” locks.
3) All MV switching devices shall be locked using “Operating” locks.
4.12 Ground-mounted transformers
4.12.1 Ground-mounted transformers shall be used to supply SPU and LPU meter panels.
4.12.2 Service cables shall be terminated directly into the transformer LV cable termination enclosure
using mechanical glands with shrouds (see D-DT-3070) and lugs (see D-DT-3102). The size of cable
gland shall be in accordance with the requirements of table 9.
NOTE The meter panel Ground-mounted transformers to make provision for the installation of any LV feeder cable
protection.
4.13 Meter kiosks, meter panels and distribution kiosks
4.13.1 SPU and LPU customers shall be supplied using either meter kiosks or meter panels (see D-DT-
3236).
4.13.2 Meter kiosks and meter panels shall be selected and applied as described in 34-305.
NOTES
1) Meter panels are supplied fitted with either MCBs or MCCBs for the protection of customer cables.
2) Meter kiosks, unless otherwise specified, are supplied fitted with MCBs (for the protection of customer cables) and
meters. If empty meter kiosks are specified and installed, MCBs (see D-DT-3034) and meters (see D-DT-9420) are to
be fitted on site.
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4.13.2.1 Meter kiosks shall comply with the requirements of 34-1052 and D-DT-1011 / D-DT-1012 / D-DT-
1018 / D-DT-1019 / D-DT-1020.
4.13.2.2 SPU meter panels shall comply with the requirements of 34-871 and D-DT-1002 / D-DT-1004.
4.13.2.3 SPU three-phase pre-payment meter panels shall comply with the requirements of 34-871 and
D-DT-1015. Pre-payment meters shall comply with 34-1635 (see D-DT-3145).
4.13.2.4 LPU meter panels shall comply with the requirements of 34-386 / 34-295 / 34-874and D-DT-1000
/ D-DT-1023 / D-DT-1016.
4.13.3 Single phase prepayment customers (SPU customers) shall be supplied using distribution kiosks
that comply with the requirements of 34-1047 and D-DT-1005 (see D-DT-3214). Single-phase standard
passive base units and pre-payment meters shall comply with the requirements of 34-434, 34-1635 and
D-DT-1017 (see D-DT-3171 and D-DT-3145).
4.13.4 Distribution kiosks shall be fitted with 80 A 1-phase LV MCBs having a ‘D’ tripping curve (see D-
DT-3034) for the protection of service cables. The number of MCBs to be fitted in each kiosk shall be in
accordance with the number of customers supplied from the kiosk. The project engineer shall ensure that
optimal load balancing between phases is achieved at each distribution kiosk. MCBs in the same group,
with a maximum of 4 MCBs per phase, shall be connected to the same phase.
4.13.5 LV feeder cables shall be terminated in meter kiosks and distribution kiosks using mechanical
glands with shrouds (see D-DT-3070) and lugs (see D-DT-3102). Where applicable, cable gland reducers
(see D-DT-3229) shall be fitted. The size of cable gland and reducer (if applicable) shall be in accordance
with table 8.
4.13.6 LV feeder cables shall be terminated in meter panels using mechanical glands with shrouds (see
D-DT-3070) and lugs (see D-DT-3102). The size of cable gland shall be in accordance with the
requirements of table 9 (see 34-305 for further details).
Table 9 – LV feeder cable gland requirements (meter panels)

1 2 3
LV feeder cable size Mechanical gland
Hole size
[mm2] (Cu) size
16 mm2 2-core M25 No. 2
16, 25 mm2 4-core M32 No. 3
70 mm2 4-core M50 No. 5
150 mm2 4-core M63 No. 6
4.13.7 Locks shall be fitted to meter kiosks, meter panels and distribution kiosks in accordance with 34-
616.
NOTES
1) Meter kiosk front doors and meter panels shall be locked using “General” locks.
2) Meter kiosk rear doors (for access to the LV busbars) shall be locked using “Prohibited Area” locks.
3) Distribution kiosks shall be locked using “Prohibited Area” locks.
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4.14 Installation of meter kiosks and distribution kiosks
4.14.1 Meter kiosks and distribution kiosks shall be positioned at least 0,5 m from all erf boundaries and
at least 1 m from the road kerbing.
4.14.2 Meter kiosks shall be installed by direct burial at a depth of 300 mm. They shall be installed on the
common boundary between adjacent customer properties.
4.14.3 Distribution kiosks shall be installed by direct burial so that the cable entry area is completely
bured. They shall be installed near the load centre of the customers being supplied.
4.14.4 After installation, the ground shall be levelled and compacted to 90 % MODAASHTO.
4.15 Public lighting
The materials for, and the construction of, low-voltage street lighting in residential areas shall be in
accordance with 34-1271.
4.16 Construction
General construction shall be carried out in accordance with the new works production work instructions
under Part 24 of the Distribution Standard.
4.17 Marking and labelling
4.17.1 General
It is a requirement of the OHS Act that all controlling apparatus is permanently marked or labelled so as to
identify the system or part of the system on the electrical machinery that it controls. Where the control
apparatus is accessible from the front and back, these markings shall be on both the front and the back.
4.17.2 Labelling of equipment
4.17.2.1 The safety/warning labels of distribution kiosks, meter kiosks and meter panels shall be in
accordance with the pertinent clauses in the relevant Distribution specifications.
NOTE The relevant equipment specifications require that they be supplied fitted with all notices, signs and, where possible,
labels.
4.17.2.2 Each LV cable circuit and protective device (circuit breaker / vertical fuse-holder) fed from a mini-
substation shall be uniquely identified and labelled in accordance with 34-1439 and regional
requirements.
4.17.2.3 Distribution kiosks shall be uniquely identified and labelled in accordance with 34-1439 and
regional requirements.
4.17.2.4 Meter kiosks shall be uniquely identified and labelled in accordance with 34-1439 and regional
requirements for distribution kiosks. In addition, a label indicating the customer‘s unique identification (e.g.
stand number; house number; customer name, etc) shall be included directly below the corresponding
meter reading window on the door of each kiosk.
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4.17.2.5 Meter panels shall be uniquely identified and labelled using the unique mini-substation name a
well as the unique name that identifies the customer supplied (e.g. stand number; house number;
customer name, etc).
4.17.2.6 Protective devices (e.g. circuit breakers) supplying customers via service cables or customer
cables shall be labelled in accordance with 34-1439 and regional requirements.
4.17.3 Labelling of cables
4.17.3.1 All LV cables shall be labelled at both ends. The label shall be a flat aluminium plate of
dimensions 150 mm × 25 mm × 0,9 mm (see D-DT-3049) tied to the cable with tinned copper binding wire
onto which the information is scribed/punched in a font size of 7 mm. The information on the cable label
shall include the following:
1) cable voltage (e.g. ‘400 V’);
2) cable size (e.g. ‘185’) in mm2;
3) conductor material (‘Cu’ for copper and ‘Al’ for aluminium); and
4.17.3.2 LV feeder cable labels shall include the word either “TO” or “FROM” and the equipment (meter
kiosk or distribution kiosk) connected to the other end of the LV cable.
4.17.3.3 LV service cable labels shall include the word either “TO” or “FROM” and the equipment (unique
name that identifies the customer (e.g. stand number; house number; customer name, etc) or the
equipment supplying the customer (i.e. mini-substation or distribution kiosk name)) connected to the other
end of the LV cable.
4.17.3.4 LV customer cables supplied from meter kiosks shall be labelled at the end that terminates into
the meter kiosk. The label shall include the unique name that identifies the customer (e.g. stand number;
house number; customer name, etc) at the source end.
4.17.4 Labelling of cables terminated onto overhead lines
4.17.4.1 All LV cables that are terminated onto an overhead line shall be labelled at the corresponding
pole using an overhead line equipment label. The label is required in order to identify the electrical
address of the equipment or pole connected at the other end of the cable.
4.17.4.2 The information on the label shall include the following:
1) the unique pole number; followed by
2) cable voltage (e.g. 400 V’); followed by
3) the words “CABLE TO”; followed by
4) the unique pole number or name of the equipment at the other end of the cable.
4.17.4.3 The information shall be stencilled using black lettering on a white background with a minimum
font height of 50 mm. The label shall be visible from the ground and shall be installed on the pole below
the cable termination.
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4.18 Documentation
4.18.1 As-built drawings that show all joints and the position of the cable, relative to boundaries, shall be
produced for all cable routes. An example of the required drawing is shown in D-DT-0858.
4.18.2 The completed cable installation and test certificate (see Annex A), cable accessory installation
instructions and quality control check sheets shall be kept for quality control purposes and stored with the
project file.
5 Inspection and testing
5.1 General
To ensure the safe and reliable operation of a cable system, visual inspections shall be made and
electrical tests performed before energizing. The results of the inspections and tests shall be recorded.
5.2 Visual inspections
A visual inspection checklist shall be compiled from the requirements of this standard and shall be used
by the Clerk of Works (COW) for routine inspections made during construction. A checklist of the items to
be inspected is provided on the Distribution Technology (IARC) website. The list is in the form of
questions and the answer to these questions shall be in the affirmative before the system may be
energised.
5.3 Electrical tests
5.3.1 All newly installed LV feeder cables shall be subjected to a 3 kV d.c. (or 2 kV rms a.c.) test voltage
in accordance with table C-2 of SANS 1507-1. The contractor and person appointed to carry out the tests
shall certify the new cable installation by completing a test certificate in accordance with Annex A.
NOTES
1) The test voltage shall be applied between all three phase conductors in parallel and the metallic armour / neutral
conductor (to test the integrity of the insulation of each phase conductor to earth/neutral) and between each phase
conductor (to test the integrity of the insulation between phases).
2) The test voltage should be increased to the full appropriate value, and maintained at this value for 15 minutes – unless
a d.c. insulation tester is used.
3) A 1000 V d.c. insulation tester may be used if suitable equipment is not available to perform this test.
4) Where applicable, the LV feeder circuit breaker (MCCB) or vertical fuse holder and all the miniature circuit breakers
(MCBs) installed in LV kiosks connected to the LV feeder cable being tested shall be open.
5.3.2 Cable fault location shall be done in accordance with SANS 10198-13.
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6 Operating
All LV operating shall be carried out in accordance with 34-638 and 34-673.
6.1 Phasing conventions for LV equipment
The convention used for the phase order for three-phase LV equipment shall be as follows:
6.1.1 Horizontal LV busbars: RED, WHITE/YELLOW, BLUE and NEUTRAL from top to bottom.
6.1.2 Vertical LV busbars: RED, WHITE/YELLOW, BLUE and NEUTRAL from left to right (facing the
busbars)
6.1.3 LV circuit breaker / vertical fuse holder terminals: RED, WHITE/YELLOW and BLUE from left to
right (as seen by the operator facing the front of the equipment)
7 Safety
7.1 LV MCCBs installed in mini-substations
The following minimum requirements shall be adhered to at all times in order to reduce the probability and
risk of a line-side flashover occurring at the terminals of an LV MCCB installed within a mini-substation:
7.1.1 All LV MCCBs shall be securely mounted on the appropriate mounting plate / rails provided in the
mini-substation LV compartment as shown in photo 1.
inter-phase flash
barriers
spacing between
adjacent MCCBs
MCCB mounting
plate / rails
Photo 1 – LV MCCBs installed in the LV compartment of a mini-substation (MCCB safety barriers

removed)
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7.1.2
.1.2 Inter-phase flash barriers shall be installed on all MCCBs on the line and load sides as shown in
photo 1.
7.1.3 The LV flexible single-core jumpers from the busbars to the MCCBs shall be adequately rated for
the MCCB being supplied. Flexible jumpers in accordance with D-DT-8026 are available for this purpose.
The correctly sized lug in accordance with D-DT-3102 shall be used for each jumper.
NOTE The use of MCCB terminal ‘extensions’ should be avoided unless they are adequately insulated and suitably
dimensioned (rated) for the particular MCCB.
7.1.4 The conductor insulation shall only be stripped in accordance with the lug barrel length – in order to
ensure that there is no exposed bare live conductor beyond the lug barrel.
7.1.5 Where possible, adjacent MCCBs shall be installed so that the air clearance between the outer
terminals of adjacent MCCBs is at least 25 mm as shown in photo 1.
NOTE This is to ensure that the risk of a flashover occurring between adjacent MCCBs (i.e. between the blue and red
phases) is minimised during a short-circuit interruption event.
7.1.6 The mini-substation MCCB safety barriers used to prevent inadvertent contact with the live LV
busbars and terminals of the MCCBs (as shown in photo 2) shall be securely re-fitted prior to energising
the LV compartment of the mini-substation. These barriers also serve to protect the operator during
switching operations.
MCCB safety
barriers
concrete screed
for LV cable
entry area
Photo 2 – LV MCCBs installed in the LV compartment of a mini-substation (MCCB safety barriers

fitted)
7.1.7 The concrete screed for the LV cable entry area shall be installed and all the mini-substation doors
securely closed during normal service operation in order to prevent the ingress of dust and other pollution
into the mini-substation.
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7.1.8 The current rating of an MCCB shall not be increased unless the LV feeder cable, LV single core
flexible jumpers and lugs are suitably rated for the MCCB.
7.2 Road safety precautions
7.2.1 When working within road reserves, the road safety precautions and requirements of the local road
agency / authority shall be complied with at all times.
7.2.2 Where applicable, the guidelines as set out in the site manuals entitled “Safety at roadworks in
urban areas” and “Safety at roadworks in rural areas” issued by the Department of Transport.
7.3 Safety of foundations, buildings and structures
7.3.1 Care shall be taken to ensure that excavations do not endanger the foundations of adjacent
buildings. All the necessary precautions shall be taken so as to prevent subsidence of soil which could
result in damage to foundations.
7.3.2 Where excavations may unavoidably endanger the stability of fences or other structures, such
structures shall be removed and replaced to the satisfaction of the owner(s).
7.4 Safety of other services
7.4.1 Where excavations may unavoidably endanger the stability of above ground services, such
services shall be adequately and suitably supported and / or stayed.
7.4.2 Where excavations expose any underground services, such services will be adequately and
suitably supported to avoid their subsidence and suitable protected against damage.
7.5 Barricading and lighting
In terms of the Construction Regulations of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993, every
excavation which is accessible to the public or which is adjacent to public roads or thoroughfares, or
whereby the safety of persons may be endangered, shall be :
a) adequately protected by a barrier or fence of at least one metre in height and as close to the
excavation as is practicable; and
b) provided with warning illuminants or any other clearly visible boundary indicators at night or when
visibility is poor.
7.6 Accommodation of traffic and access to properties
7.6.1 In addition to complying with the relevant requirements as applicable, where the work affects the
operation or safety of public traffic, the following shall be applicable:
a) by-pass(es), as may be required to deviate traffic from portions of the road that are to be affected
by the construction, shall be constructed and put in order; and
Revision: 0
Page: 39 of 45
b) access ways, as may be required by persons requiring access to properties that fall within or
adjoining the area where construction work is taking place, shall be provided. If, for any reason,
such access has to be closed for certain periods during the construction period, the persons
affected shall be given reasonable notice in writing of each construction period.
7.6.2 Official communication shall be issued by the relevant Communications Office to advise the
affected public of all details regarding any traffic deviations and/or access restrictions that may be put in
place during the construction period.
7.7 Working on and in the vicinity of live cables
7.7.1 Prior to working on a cable, it shall be positively identified and spiked in accordance with 34-1143.
7.7.2 When external damage to a cable has been located and exposed following a cable feeder
protection operation (e.g. due to contractor damage / theft), the damaged cable shall be visually identified
and spiked in accordance with 34-1143 before any work is carried out on the cable. This will ensure that a
permanent fault is created and the possibility of the cable being incorrectly identified eliminated.
7.7.3 When working in close proximity to other live cables, it is recommended that the other cables be
temporarily covered using a “cable flash blanket”. This will greatly reduce the risk of an injury in the event
of a flash due to a cable fault on one of the nearby cables.
NOTE The requirements for a “cable flash blanket” are currently being investigated.
Revision: 0
Page: 40 of 45
Annex A – Cable Installation and Test Certificate

(normative)
PROJECT NAME: …………………………………………………………………………………………………….
PROJECT ID: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
PROJECT LOCATION: ………………………………………………………………………………………………
NAME OF INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR: ...…………………………….…………………………………...…
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
NAME AND ORGANISATION OF PERSON PERFORMING TESTS: ……………........................................
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
NAME AND ORGANISATION OF PERSON COMPLETING QUALITY CHECKLISTS..................................
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
CABLE DATA
MANUFACTURER: …………………………………………………………………………………………………...
SPECIFICATION: (SANS 1507): ……………………………….…………………………………….……………..
VOLTAGE (600 / 1000 kV): …………………………………..……………………………………………………..
CABLE INSULATION (PVC): …………………………………..……………………………………..…………….
NUMBER OF CORES : ………………………………………………………………………………………..…….
CONDUCTOR SIZE (mm2): ………………………………………………………………………………………….
SERIAL / ORDER / DRUM NUMBER: ……………………………………………………………...………………
DATE OF INSTALLATION: ………………………………………………………………………………………….
AS-BUILT DRAWING NUMBER: ……………………………………………………………………………………
CABLE ACCESSORY INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS ATTACHED (YES / NO): ………………………….
ALL RELEVANT QUALITY CHECKLISTS COMPLETED AND ATTACHED (YES / NO): ……………………
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Annex A – Cable Installation and Test Certificate

(continued)
TEST EQUIPMENT USED
BRAND:
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….................
TYPE: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
AC / DC / VLF: ………………………………………………………………...………………………………………
TEST VOLTAGE AND RESULTS
FEEDER NAME TEST DURATION RESULT

VOLTAGE
(minutes) (pass/fail)
(kV)
PERFORMED BY:
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
NAME, SIGNATURE AND DATE
WITNESSED BY (CLERK OF WORKS / PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR):
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
NAME, SIGNATURE AND DATE
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Page: 42 of 45
Annex B
(Formative)
Impact assessment
Impact assessment form to be completed for all documents.
1 Guidelines
o All comments must be completed.
o Motivate why items are N/A (not applicable)
o Indicate actions to be taken, persons or organisations responsible for actions and deadline for action.
o Change control committees to discuss the impact assessment, and if necessary give feedback to the
compiler of any omissions or errors.
2 Critical points
2.1 Importance of this document. E.g. is implementation required due to safety deficiencies,
statutory requirements, technology changes, document revisions, improved service quality,
improved service performance, optimised costs.
Comment: to provide standardised implementation of low-voltage cable system.
2.2 If the document to be released impacts on statutory or legal compliance - this need to be very
clearly stated and so highlighted.
Comment: this document complies with the OHS Act and the national environmental management Act.
2.3 Impact on stock holding and depletion of existing stock prior to switch over.
Comment: N/A
2.4 When will new stock be available?
Comment: N/A
2.5 Has the interchangeability of the product or item been verified - i.e. when it fails is a straight
swop possible with a competitor's product?
Comment: Yes, products are interchangeable.
2.6 Identify and provide details of other critical (items required for the successful implementation
of this document) points to be considered in the implementation of this document.
Comment: Regions to update LV cable quality checklists.
2.7 Provide details of any comments made by the Regions regarding the implementation of this
document.
Comment: (N/A during commenting phase)
Revision: 0
Page: 43 of 45
Annex B
(continued)
3 Implementation timeframe
3.1 Time period for implementation of requirements.
Comment: From the date of publishing.
3.2 Deadline for changeover to new item and personnel to be informed of DX wide change-over.
Comment: N/A
4 Buyers Guide and Power Office
4.1 Does the Buyers Guide or Buyers List need updating?
Comment: No
4.2 What Buyer’s Guides or items have been created?
Comment: None
4.3 List all assembly drawing changes that have been revised in conjunction with this document.
Comment: None
4.4 If the implementation of this document requires assessment by CAP, provide details under 5
4.5 Which Power Office packages have been created, modified or removed?
Comment: None
5 CAP / LAP Pre-Qualification Process related impacts
5.1 Is an ad-hoc re-evaluation of all currently accepted suppliers required as a result of

implementation of this document?
Comment: No, this is a standard.
5.2 If NO, provide motivation for issuing this specification before Acceptance Cycle Expiry date.
Comment: N/A, this is a standard.
5.3 Are ALL suppliers (currently accepted per LAP), aware of the nature of changes contained in
this document?
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Page: 44 of 45
Annex B
(continued)
5.4 Is implementation of the provisions of this document required during the current supplier
qualification period?
If Yes to 5.4, what date has been set for all currently accepted suppliers to comply fully?
5.5 If Yes to 5.4, have all currently accepted suppliers been sent a prior formal notification
informing them of Eskom’s expectations, including the implementation date deadline?
5.6 Can the changes made, potentially impact upon the purchase price of the
material/equipment?
5.7 Material group(s) affected by specification: (Refer to Pre-Qualification invitation schedule for
list of material groups)
6 Training or communication
6.1 State the level of training or communication required to implement this document. (E.g. none,
communiqués, awareness training, practical / on job, module, etc.)
Comment: Awareness training
6.2 State designations of personnel that will require training.
Comment: Project engineers, TSG TSpOs and PTOs, Contractors, Planners and Investigators.
6.3 Is the training material available? Identify person responsible for the development of training
material.
Comment: IARC training modules (Jutas Maudu and Rhett Kelly)
6.4 If applicable, provide details of training that will take place. (E.G. sponsor, costs, trainer,
schedule of training, course material availability, training in erection / use of new equipment,
maintenance training, etc).
Comment: T & Q to arrange standard training for regions i.e. when required.
6.5 Was Training & Development Section consulted w.r.t training requirements?
Comment: N/A
Revision: 0
Page: 45 of 45
Annex B
(continued)
7 Special tools, equipment, software
7.1 What special tools, equipment, software, etc will need to be purchased by the Region to
effectively implement?
Comment: None
7.2 Are there stock numbers available for the new equipment?
Comment: See listed buyer’s guides.
7.3 What will be the costs of these special tools, equipment, software?
Comment: N/A
8 Finances
8.1 What total costs would the Regions be required to incur in implementing this document?
Identify all cost activities associated with implementation, e.g. labour, training, tooling, stock,
obsolescence
Comment:
Costs associated with the implementation of this standard are those for the training venues and facilities.
Impact assessment completed by:
Name: A J Maudu
Designation: Senior Engineer, Power Plant (IARC)

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STANDARD

Document Classification: Controlled Disclosure

Published date: OCTOBER 2008

Review date: OCTOBER 2013

COMPILED BY APPROVED BY FUNCTIONAL RESP AUTHORISED BY

SIGNED SIGNED SIGNED SIGNED

JFSholtz/Jan’08 (Rev A) to ensure traceability

Section 4 : 34-212, Inspection and maintenance of high-voltage cables.

Section 5 : 34-06, Medium-voltage services to large power users.

Section 6 : 34-209, Medium-voltage cabling in substations.

The Plant Technologies Manager

Industry Association Resource Centre (IARC)

Private Bag X1074

Telephone (011) 871-2416

Fax (011) 871-2352

Date Rev. Clause Remarks

Date Rev. Clause Remarks

4.8.1 NOTES (a) and (b) added under 4.8.1.1:

Date Rev. Clause Remarks

Date Rev. Clause Remarks

6 Requirements for operating added.

This document has been seen and accepted by:

This standard shall apply throughout the Eskom Distribution Division.

Explosives Act No 26 of 1956

a) Mini-substations feeding LV meter kiosks, distribution kiosks and meter panels;

f) LV feeder cables, service cables and customer cables.

34-609 (SCSAGAAF5), Distribution Standard: Part 3 – Low-voltage reticulation: Section 3: LV protection

34-638, Distribution Standard – Part 12: Standard for low-voltage operating.

34-673, Distribution Standard – Part 12: Procedure for low-voltage operating.

34-1635 (DISSCAAA9), Particular requirements for prepayment meters.

34-1261 (SCSASAAM0), Distribution Standard: Part 0 – Structures, definitions, abbreviations and

34-1271 (SCSASABG2), Distribution Standard: Part 8 – Services: Section 5: Public lighting.

34-1895 (SCSASAAL9), Distribution Standard − Part 2: Earthing Section 1 MV and LV reticulation

SANS 10142-1, The wiring of LV premises – Part 1 Low-voltage installations..

SANS 10292: Earthing of low-voltage (LV) distribution systems.

Eskom assembly drawings:

D-DT-0836(sheet 3), LV outdoor cable termination to transformer (fused) 1x95-185mm² 4 core.

D-DT-0854 (sheet 5), MV and LV power cable electrical servics detail.

D-DT-0854 (sheet 7), Installation of MV or LV cables in proximity to other services.

D-DT-0854 (sheet 8), Road reserve - cable and service details.

D-DT-0856, Standard power and control cable codes.

D-DT-0858, Example of as built medium voltage cable layout.

D-DT-1005, Distribution kiosk, ground-mounted low-voltage.

D-DT-1000, Meter kiosk, 100 kVA – 500 kVA LPU.

D-DT-1016, Meter kiosk, 1 MVA LPU.

D-DT-1015, Meter kiosk, SPU three phase – pre-payment.

D-DT-1004, Meter kiosk, SPU single phase.

D-DT-1011, Meter kiosk, SPU two-way single phase.

D-DT-1019, Meter kiosk, SPU four-way single phase.

D-DT-1020, Meter kiosk, SPU six-way single phase.

D-DT-1012, Meter kiosk, SPU two-way three phase.

D-DT-1018, Meter kiosk, SPU four-way three phase.

D-DT-1017, Standard passive unit for 1-phase 230 V service connections.

Eskom buyers guide drawings:

D-DT-3039, Clamps, IPC.

D-DT-3049, Plate, blank ALU pole MK 25x150mm.

D-DT-3057, Connector, pre-insulated pin – crimp.

D-DT-3058, Clamps, PG.

D-DT-3070, LV cable glands.

D-DT-3090, Coach screw..

D-DT 3102, Lug, crimping Cu.

D-DT-3110, Buckle - stainless steel strapping 12 mm.

D-DT-3116, Lugs, pre-insulated ABC crimp.