ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS

CABLES & WIRES AL FOZAN BOULEVARD

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 GENERAL
1.1 REFERENCE ……………………………………………………………………………….3
1.2 DESCRIPTION OF WORK ……………………………………………………………......3
1.3 QUALITY OF CONTROL / ASSURANCE …………………………………………….…4
1.4 CODES AND STANDARDS ………………………………………………………………5
1.5 SUBMITTALS ……………………………………………………………………………..6
2.0 PRODUCTS
2.1 CABLES AND WIRES .......................................................................................................... 6
2.2 WIRES………………………………………………………………………………………..8
2.3 PVC/PVC – MULTICORE FLEXIBLE CABLES ................................................................ 8
2.4 CABLES ................................................................................................................................. 9
2.5 FIRE RESISTANT CABLES (FIRE ALARM + CENTRAL EMERGENCY SYSTEM)…..9
2.6 TERMINATION AND SPLICE CONNECTORS (LV POWER) ………………………….10
2.7 CABLE GLANDS …………………………………………………………………………..10
2.8 CABLE SEALING COMPOUNDS ......................................................................................11
2.9 CABLE CLEATS ...................................................................................................................11
3.0 EXECUTION
3.1 CABLE INSTALLATION …………………………………………………………………..12
3.2 FIRE BARRIERS …………………………………………………………………………13
3.3 CABLES INSTALLED UNDERGROUND ………………………………………………...13
3.4 CABLE AND CABLE TRENCH MARKING ……………………………………………...14
3.5 JOINTING AND TERMINATIONS ………………………………………………………..15
3.6 SLEEVE AND SLEEVE-SEAL INSTALLATION...........................................................15
3.7 TESTING AND COMMSSIONING ………………………………………………………..15
3.8 TEMPORARY WIRING .…………………………………………………………………. 16
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1.0 GENERAL
1.1 REFERENCE
Conform to General Requirements for Electrical Services
1.2 DESCRIPTION OF WORK
1.2.1 Supply, Installation, testing, and commissioning of complete cables and wires system as specified
hereafter and as indicated in the related electrical system drawings.
1.2.2 Unless otherwise specified all wires and cables enclosed / concealed in conduits or trunking or the
like, shall be single core PVC insulated 450 / 750V grade and the installation shall be carried out on
the looping-in system with continuous mains throughout each circuit. All exposed cables in common
public escape corridor including (ceiling void) shall be LSOH and other areas shall be PVC
insulation. All connections to fittings and the like shall be of a solid nature and small connectors
(other than porcelain enclosed heavy brass sleeves) will not be allowed. Porcelain connectors
enclosing heavy brass sleeves shall be provided for heat resisting trails for enclosed fittings and for
the drops for spot lights only.
1.2.3 All connections to flexible cords or cables shall be such that any strain on the cord or cable is not
transmitted to the connections.
1.2.4 All wires/cables connections to switches, socket, circuit breaker etc. shall be carried out using
suitable swivel lugs or cable ends.
1.2.5 Joints in the wiring cables will not be allowed in any part of the system
1.2.6 The number of cables run in conduits shall be in accordance with the IEC – wiring regulations and
DEWA Regulations. With the exception of 3 phase power points or sub main supply circuits to 3
phase boards the circuits grouped in any one conduit shall be connected to one phase of the system
only. This does not apply to wiring run in metal trunking.
1.2.7 All switch wires for lighting circuits shall be on the 'live' side.
1.2.8 When drawing the wires and cables into the conduits or trunking, the Contractor must see that proper
appliances are used so that the wires and cables suffer no damage whatever in the process. All kinks
must be rigidly avoided and care must be taken to ensure that the insulation, taping and brading of
the cables receive no damage or abrasion.
1.2.9 During the progress of work or at completion, the engineer may require certain wires and cables to be
drawn out in order to test that the conditions mentioned have been complied with. They may require
that certain fittings and/or accessories be dismantled for examination of workmanship and quality.
1.2.10 This Section includes the following:
1. Building wires and cables rated 1000 V and less.
2. Terminations rated 1000 V and less.
3. Sleeves and sleeve seals for cables.
1.2.11 Definitions
A. LV: Low Voltage: 1000V and less
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B. XLPE: Cross linked Polyethylene
C. LSZH: Low Smoke Zero Halogen
D. SWA: Steel Wired Armoured
E. Fire rated cable: The ability of electrical cables or optical cables to maintain a reliable
form of power supply or signal from the source to the life safety installation(s) when
exposed to FLAME/SHOCK/WATER SPRAY for a period of 120 minutes.
F. CWZ: This refers to BS (see clauses 1.4.3&21).. Cables comply with the following tests:
1. C – Resistance to fire at 950°C for 3 hours
2. W – Resistance to fire and water at 650°C for 30 minutes
3. Z – Resistance to fire and mechanical shock at 950°C for 15 mins
G. HOFR: Heat Oil and Flame retardant
1.3 QUALITY CONTROL/ASSURANCE
Design, manufacture, testing and method of installation of all apparatus and materials furnished
under requirements of these specifications shall conform to latest publications or standard rules of the
following:
A. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) regulations for electrical installation works
and Department of Civil Defense requirements.
B. Regulations for the Electrical Equipment of Buildings (IEE), (BS) London.
C. British Standards.
The Quality Control/Assurance/Assurance/Quality Assurance duties shall be performed by the
Contractor. The system of Quality Control/Assurance/Assurance verification shall be in accordance
with ISO 9001 standards of quality assurance. Cables shall also be certified by ESMA (Emirates
Standards and Meteorology Authority).
All Cables shall be certified by BASEC for appropriate BS test methods with independent authorized
3rd party certification.
Manufacturing company regularly engaged in the manufacturer of all materials specified in this
section of types and sizes required, whose products have been in satisfactory use under similar service
conditions for not less than 10 years.
Installers Qualifications: Use competent persons to install the equipment and provide them with
documentary evidence of their competence, which the Engineer or Employer, or their nominees, shall
be entitled to see at any time.
1.4 CODES AND STANDARDS
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The following codes and standards to the extent specified herein, form a part of this specification.
When an edition date is not indicated for a Code or Standard the latest edition enforces at the time of
proposal submitted shall apply.
All cables supplied and installed shall be selected from the following types with stranded copper
conductors and shall comply with the appropriate British Standard referred to below as applicable.
1. DEWA and UAE Fire Code Regulations
2. BS EN 50525-1:2011, BS EN 50525-2-42:2011, BS EN 50525-2-31 Electric cables.
3. BS 6387 - Test method for resistance to fire for cables required to maintain circuit integrity
under fire conditions.
4. BS EN 50525-2-11:2011, BS EN 50525-2-12:2011, BS EN 50525-21:2011, BS EN
50525-2-51, BS EN 50525-2-71:2011 Electric cables.
5. BS 6724: 2016 - Electric cables. Thermosetting insulated, armoured cables for voltages of
600/1000 V and 1900/3300 V, for fixed installations having low emission of smoke and
corrosive gases when affected by fire
6. BS 7211 - Electric cables. Thermosetting insulated, and thermoplastic sheathed cables for
voltages up to and including 450/750V for electric power and lighting, and having low
emission of smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire
7. BS EN 50525-3-41 – Low Smoke Zero Halogen Wires 450/750V
8. BS 7629-1 Electric cables. Specification for 300/500 V fire resistant screened cables
having low emission of smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire. Multicore and
multi pair cables
9. BS 7655 - Specification for insulating and sheathing materials for cables
10. BS 8434-2+A2: 2009 - Methods of test for assessment of the fire integrity of electric
cables. Test for unprotected small cables for use in emergency circuits. BS EN 50200 with
a 930° flame and with water spray
11. BS 8491 - Method for assessment of fire integrity of large diameter power cables for use
as components for smoke and heat control systems and certain other active fire safety
systems.
12. BS 8519 - Selection and installation for fire resistant power and control cable systems for
life safety and firefighting cables. Code of practice.
13. BS EN 10143 - Continuously hot-dip metal coated steel sheet and strip. Tolerances on
dimensions and shape.
14. BS EN 61034-1+A1: 2014 - Measurement of smoke density of cables burning under
defined conditions. Test apparatus
15. NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signalling Code.
16. BS 7671 – Wires / Cables - Testing and Commissioning
17. IEC 60502-1 - Power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated
voltages
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18. BS EN 60228 - Conductors of insulated cables
19. All LV cables, wires and accessories furnished under these Specifications shall conform to
the applicable standards of DEWA, DCD, IET, IEC, NEC, BASEC and BS.
20. Where conflicts exist between the requirements of this Specification and other drawings,
standards, codes and specifications, the most stringent shall be applied.
21. Fire Rated Cables related standards:
BS 6387: 2013 (CWZ) – sizes 1.5mm² up to 95mm²
EN 60754-1: 2014 – All sizes
EN 61034-2: 2005+A1: 2013 – All sizes
IEC 60331-21: 1999 – All sizes
IEC 60332-3-24: 2009 – sizes 10mm² up to 1000mm²
BS 8434-2: 2003+A2:2009 (120 mins) sizes 1.5mm² up to 95mm²
EN 50200: 2015 (Class PH 120) – sizes 1.5mm² up to 95mm²
BS 8592:2016 – sizes 1.5mm² up to 70mm² (Rated voltage 450/750V)
BS 7846:2015 - all sizes, 600/1000V
BS 8592:2016 - all sizes, 450/750V
22. BS 6121-1 - Mechanical cable glands. Armour glands. Requirements and test methods
23. BS 6121-5 - Mechanical cable glands. Code of practice for selection, installation and
inspection of cable glands and armour glands
24. BS EN 62444 - Cable glands for electrical installations
25. IEC 60332 - Tests on electric and optical fibre cables under fire conditions
26. IEC 61238-1 - Compression and mechanical connectors for power cables
1.5 SUBMITTALS
The contractor shall submit the following drawings and documents related with each electrical
system for Engineer’s approval:
A. Original catalogues for various proposed components.
B. Schedule of Cable types and sizes
C. Test Certificates.
2.0 PRODUCTS
2.1 GENERAL
In general, Type and minimum size of cable as indicated in electrical drawings, SLD, electrical load
schedules and other design elements.
Cable specification and manufacture must be consistent throughout each wired system. All cable
utilized must be continuously run from source to termination, without any through jointing included.
2.1.1 Cable must be adequately stored and protected from damage pending installation and also during
installation until permanent protection is effected.
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2.1.2 Cable reels must be supported on purpose formed support frames and under no circumstance shall
cable be drawn from reels laid on the ground. This shall be strictly enforced as the Engineer's
condemnation of any cable that is considered to have been abused will involve total replacement at
cost to the Contractor.
2.1.3 The cross sectional area of every cable shall be suitable for carrying the maximum sustained load
current under normal conditions and shall be selected in accordance with related Regulations. The
cross sectional area of the neutral conductor for 3-phase circuits shall be equal to the cross sectional
area of the phase conductors. The cables shall be selected such that the drop in voltage from the
origin of the installation to any point in the installation does not exceed 4% of the nominal voltage
when the conductors are carrying the full load current, but disregarding starting conditions. Voltage
drop calculation shall be submitted for approval and the cross sectional area of the cable shall be
increased accordingly if required to meet the above mentioned requirement without any extra cost.
2.1.4 The cables connected in parallel shall be of the same type, cross sectional area, length and disposition
and be arranged so as to carry substantially equal load currents.
2.1.5 Where cables are to be connected to bus bars, breakers etc. The insulation and/or sheath shall be
removed for a distance of 150mm from the connection and replaced by suitable heat-resisting
insulation.
2.1.6 The wire armour of single core cables in the same circuit shall be bounded together at both ends.
2.1.7 All cables supplied and installed shall be selected from the following types with stranded copper
conductors and shall comply with the appropriate British Standard referred to below as applicable.
Cabling shall be as indicated on the cable schedules of this specification and as indicated on
the drawings and as described in the particular specification. Where not indicated comply
with the following cable types which are detailed in the following articles:
A. WIRES:
1. Final Circuits (General lighting and Power) – PVC : BS EN 50525-2-31 (Wires)
(Concealed conduit wiring in escape routes and common areas with PVC wires)
2. Final Circuits on escape routes / common areas LSZH : BS EN 50525-3-41 (LSZH
wires)
B. FLEXIBLE WIRES:
1. Final Connections to luminaires from ceiling rose: PVC / PVC white plastic (105
degree compliant )
BSEN- 50525-1:2011, BS EN 50525-2-11:2011, BS EN 50525-2-21:2011, BSEN
50525-2-51:2011 Electric cables
C. CABLES:
1. LV Distribution in all general areas: XLPE/SWA/PVC – BS 5467: 2008.
2. LV Distribution in all public areas: XLPE/SWA/LSZH – BS 5467: 2008
3. External landscape lighting: XLPE/SWA/PVC – BS 6724+A3:
2008
4. Sub main supplies for Life safety equipment: XLPE/SWA/ LSZH – Fire resistant
BS7846, BS EN 61034-1+A1,
BS8519, BS 8491.
5. Aircraft/Marine Navigation Lighting: XLPE/PVC
6. Mechanical services supplies from MCCs: XLPE/LSZH/SWA.- BS 6724+A3
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(LSZH – In common area escape routes including ceiling voids, otherwise PVC)
7. BMS and ELV control applications: PVC if enclosed/concealed,
LSZH if exposed.
D. RUBBER CABLES:
Final connection to mechanical equipment: HOFR – BS EN 50525-1:2011, BS EN
50525-2-41:2011, BS EN 50525-2-42:2011
HO7RNF – BS EN 50525-2-21:2011
H07RN8F – BS EN 50525-2-21:2011 (Water Resistant)
E. FIRE RESISTANT CABLES: All fire rated cables shall meet the DCD and UAE fire and
life safety code standard for fire alarm cabling in accordance with BS6387 Category CWZ,
EN 50200 PH120, BS 8434-2, 120 mins.
1. Emergency Lighting: 2 Hour fire rated to DCD (white)
2. Fire Alarm final circuits: 2 Hour fire rated to DCD (RED)
3. Fire Alarm Network: 2 hour Fire rating (red) multicore
4. Voice Alarm: 2 hour Fire rating (red) multicore
5. Fire alarm/ Lift/MCC interface: 2 hour Fire rating (red) multicore
2.2 WIRES
2.2.1 PVC- Insulated Single Core Cables
a. PVC cables (non-armoured, non-sheathed) for electric power and lighting.
b. The cable shall be of 450/750 volts grade and manufactured to BS EN (see clause 1.4.7).
2.2.2 LSZH- Insulated Single Core Cables
a. Thermosetting insulated, cables (non-armoured, non-sheathed) for electric power and
lighting on escape routes and common areas (including ceiling void) with low emission of
smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire.
b. The cable shall be of 450/750 volts grade and manufactured to BS EN (see clause 1.4.7).
2.3 PVC/PVC – MULTICORE FLEXIBLE CABLES
a. All flexible cables used for pendant lighting fittings or for final connections to fixed or
portable equipment shall be of 300/500 volts grade.
b. Multi core Flexible cables shall be of annealed copper conductor insulated with heat resisting
PVC and of circular construction to BS EN (see clause 1.4.4)
a. Light Duty – final connection to apartment Indoor lighting
b. Heavy duty - 105 degrees C – final connection to, washing machines, dish washers,
cookers and water heaters etc.
2.4 CABLES
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2.4.1 XLPE/SWA/LSZH Multicore Cables
a. Crosslinked polyethylene cables for 600/1000 V armoured electric cables having
thermosetting insulation and low emission of smoke and corrosive gases when affected by
fire.
b. The cable shall be of 600/1000 volts grade and manufactured to BS (see clause 1.4.5)
2.4.2 XLPE/LSZH/SWA/LSZH - Insulated Armoured Multicore Fire Resistant Cables
a. Electric cables. Specification for 600-1000V fire resistant screened cables having low emission
of smoke and corrosive gases when affected by fire. and where fire resistance is required to
comply with BS (see clause 1.4.3) CWZ.
b. The cable shall be of 600/1000 volts grade and manufactured to BS (see clause 1.4.21) and
BS EN (see clause 1.4.14).
c. Fire Rated Single Core Power Cable - Al Armoured
1Cx630mm² - Generally to IEC (see clauses 1.4.17&21) specification.
0.6/1kV, Class 2, Copper Conductor, XLPE Insulated, LSZH Bedded, Aluminum Wire Armoured,
BLACK LSZH Outer Sheathed, Generally to IEC (see clauses 1.4.17&21) specification.
Approved by:
1. LPCB
2. Dubai Civil Defense (DCD)
Notes:
1. Stranded Conductors only
2. Al Armoured cables shall meet the requirements of IEC (see clauses 1.4.21) when tested at a
temperature of 950°C for a duration of 180 mins + 15 mins cool down, at a voltage of 600V.
c. Fire Rated Single Core Wires – (BS 8592)
0.6/1kV Cu (Class 2)/XL-LSZH Fire resistant Cables to meet the requirement of BS (see clauses
1.4.3&21) CWZ. Insulation Color as per request.
2.4.3 HOFR – Heat Resisting Multicore Flexible Cables
a. HOFR flexible cables shall be used for final connection to mechanical equipment in Boiler
rooms, oil storage plant rooms or where equipment requires withdrawal from mechanical plant
(e.g. final connections to electric heaters in Air Handling Units). The cable shall be of 450/750
volts grade BS EN (see clause 1.4.4).
b. Flexible cables shall be of annealed copper conductor insulated with heat resisting insulation and
of circular construction to (see clauses 1.4.2&4) Flexible cables shall comply with relevant
standards and codes of practice mentioned in the specification.
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2.5 FIRE RESISTANT CABLES (FIRE ALARM + CENTRAL EMERGENCY SYSTEM)
2.5.1 Fire resistant cable shall have stranded (if installed in conduits within slab) plain annealed copper
conductors to BS EN (see clause 1.4.21). The cable shall be manufactured and tested to BS (see
clause 1.4.8). The conductors shall be solid if installed externally on any surface and clipped
directly or in cable tray.
2.5.2 The cables shall be rated at 300 / 500V and shall be suitable for operation at sheath temperature of
70 deg. C.
2.5.3 The cable shall comply with the flame retardant requirements of BS (see clauses 1.4.3&21).,
category CWZ latest BS 5839 and IEC (see clause 1.4.25). The cable shall be 120 minutes’ fire
rated cable as per DCD / AHJ with certifications.
2.5.4 The Fire resistant cables shall be used for the wiring of Fire Alarm System and Emergency
Lighting System and to be laid in conduits through slab or wall.
All cables must have DCD certifications and valid listing.
2.6 TERMINATION AND SPLICE CONNECTORS (LV POWER)
2.6.1 Connector terminations and splices shall be of class A to IEC (see clause 1.4.26).
2.6.2 Connectors shall be compression, barrel crimped type.
2.6.3 Connectors for copper conductors shall be made of electrolytic copper.
2.6.4 Connectors for aluminium conductors shall be made of aluminium alloy of purity not less than
99.5%.
2.6.5 All termination and splice connectors specified above shall be tin plated with minimum thickness
of 5 microns for copper material and 7 microns for aluminium material. Aluminium connectors
shall incorporate neutral grease to avoid aluminium oxidation.
2.6.6 Termination connectors for aluminium-copper termination shall consist of barrel made of
aluminium alloy of purity not less than 99.5% and palm made of forged copper connected using a
friction stir welding.
2.6.7 Splice connectors for aluminium-copper termination shall consist of two barrels, one is made of
electrolytic copper and the other is made of aluminium alloy of purity not less than 99.5%
connected using a friction stir welding.
2.6.8 Splice connectors shall have a central stop to divide the connector into two equal parts to facilitate
the correct cable positioning.
2.7 CABLE GLANDS
2.7.1 Cable glands shall comply with BS (see clauses 1.4.22&23)and BS EN (see clause 1.4.24). Glands
for armoured or screened cables shall have suitable clamps. The gland shall be of such a design
that during assembly no torque will be induced in the cable sheath.
2.7.2 Cable glands used with unarmored cables shall be made of brass, type A2 to BS (see clause
1.4.25), with mechanical retention class B to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24), impact resistance category
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8 to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24) and an environmental seal to the cable outer sheath. Glands shall be
deluge protected, with IP66 degree of protection to IEC 60529.
2.7.3 Cable glands used with single steel wire armored cables (Internal applications) shall be made of
brass, type BW to BS (see clause 1.4.23), with mechanical retention class B to BS EN 50262,
impact resistance category 8 to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24), electrical continuity via armor wire
termination category B to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24), earth tag to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24) and an
environmental seal to the cable outer sheath. Glands shall have minimum degree of IP 54
protection as per IEC 60529 / BS EN 62444.
2.7.4 Cable glands used with single steel wire armored cables (outdoor and Life Safety Equipment’s)
where sprinkler / water mist firefighting systems are used shall be made of brass, type CW/ CWZ
to BS (see clause 1.4.23), with mechanical retention class B to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24), impact
resistance category 8 to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24), electrical continuity via armor wire termination
category B to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24), earth tag to BS EN (see clause 1.4.24) and an
environmental seal to the cable inner and outer sheaths. Each gland shall be locked onto equipment
with suitable brass backnuts. Also, every gland shall have a polychloroprene shroud fitted over the
gland for additional protection.
2.7.5 Cable glands used with LSOH or fire resistant cables shall be of the applicable type as stated above
and provided with low smoke fume shroud.
2.8 CABLE SEALING COMPOUNDS
2.8.1 Shall be tropical grade to BS 1858:2002 or BS 6910 and approved by cable manufacturer, of an
oil-resisting compound where the difference in level between cable ends exceeds 6 m.
2.8.2 Each cable shall be kept sealed except when termination and splicing work is being performed.
2.8.3 The ends of all cables shall be sealed with heat shrinkable caps. Cap sizes shall be as
recommended by the cap manufacturer for the cable outside diameter and insulation.
2.8.4 Caps shall contain sufficient adhesive that shrinkage of the cap during application results in
formation of a positive watertight seal capable of withstanding complete immersion or total
exposure without permitting the entrance of moisture.
2.8.5 Before and after pulling, the cable where the same are to be installed in conduits, the leading end
seal of each length of cable shall be examined and repaired if necessary. All cut cable ends shall be
promptly sealed after cutting except those to be spliced or terminated immediately.
2.9 CABLE CLEATS
2.9.1 Shall be approved claw type cast aluminium, gunmetal, plastic or brass of approved type, two bolts
fixing for cables greater than 50 mm diameter.
2.9.2 Where more than two power cables are run together, provide a cable tray. Secure cables with
cleats, saddles or ties as appropriate for location and use spacers where more than one layer is
required.
2.9.3 All single core phase cables shall be installed in die-cast, non-ferrous, trefoil cleats and neutral
cables in similar single way cleats of the same manufacture. Flat formation may be used in
specified cases when approved cleats shall be used
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2.9.4 For cables of core area of and less than 25mm² multicore cleats on a common bolt or spindle shall
be acceptable. Multiple cable shall be secured with PVC cleats at a spacing consistent with the size
of cable used
2.9.5 Structural steelwork shall not be drilled for cable fixing. Individual cables other than MICC cable
run on steelwork shall be supported in cleats fixed to back-straps clamped or welded to the
structural steelwork. These cleats shall be spaced so as to avoid sagging of cables and in no case at
more than 1m between centers
2.9.6 Fixings, supports, cleats etc. used for Fire rated cables shall have the same fire rating as specified
for the cable
3.0 EXECUTION
3.1 CABLE INSTALLATION
3.1.1 Generally, the installation of cables shall conform to IET regulations and DEWA requirements. The
final sub circuit connection and wiring shall be carried out in accordance with DEWA regulations
and unless otherwise indicated, the following details shall apply throughout the works:
a) Lighting Circuits up to 1000 Watts:
10amp MCB protection Wired with 3 x 2.5 mm2 (PVC) cables.
b) 13amp socket outlets:
20amp MCB protection on radial main basis wired with 3 x 4 mm2 PVC cable shall be
provided for up to four socket outlets serving one room only of less than 50 m2 floor area.
32amp MCB protection on ring main basis wired with 4 x 4mm2 and 2 x 4mm2 PVC cables
shall be provided for maximum 8 nos. 13A sockets.
c) Unit water heaters up to 3 KW rating:
20 amp MCB protection Wired with 2 x 4mm2 and 1 x 4mm2 PVC cables.
d) Fan coil units each:
20 amp MCB protection wired with 2 x 4mm2 and 1 x 4mm2 PVC cables.
e) Hand dryers:
20 amp MCB protection Wired with 2 x 4mm2 and 1 x 4mm2 (2kW rating) PVC cables.
The above details for connections shall apply throughout the Works, except where the related
Regulations would be contravened in respect of permissible voltage drop. In such cases the
contractor shall utilize a larger conductor size as appropriate.
3.1.2 All cables shall be protected against any risk of mechanical damage to which they may be liable in
normal conditions, of service. Where cables are installed under floors or in ceiling voids, they shall
be run so that they are not liable to be damaged by contact with the floor or the ceiling or their
fixings. Where the cables pass through holes in metal work, care shall be taken to prevent abrasion
of the cables on any sharp edges.
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3.1.3 All cables rising through floors and trench covers shall be protected, for example, by a length of lead
or steel or PVC pipe which should project at least 75mm above the finished surface level. The open
end of the pipe shall be sealed with a suitable compound. Lead and PVC pipes shall be used where
they will be free from mechanical damage or in situations where steel pipe would be subject to
corrosion.
3.1.4 The cables installed throughout the system shall be enclosed in conduit, duct, ducting or trunking as
specified.
3.1.5 All cables buried in the ground shall incorporate an armour and all cables installed in positions which
may be exposed to direct sunlight shall be supported by heavy duty cable tray and shall be suitably
covered by a standard ventilated stand and non perforated cover to protect from ultra-violet light.
3.1.6 Cable ties shall be utilized to fix cables into cable trays, Cable cleats shall be utilized to fix the cables
in vertical cable trays/ladders (Nylon cleat for normal cables and claw cleat for fire rated cables),
cable separator and cable retainer shall be utilized to fix wires/cables into cable trunking.
3.1.7 All conduits, ducting and trunking shall be properly supported and of a type suitable for any type of
mechanical damage to which they may be liable in normal conditions of service or adequately
protected against such damage. The internal radius of every bend of a non-flexible cable shall be as
recommended by manufacturer and the related standards.
3.1.8 Cables under roads, and where deemed necessary under pipe tracks etc., shall be protected by
concrete encased PVC ducts. Bitumen bonded fibre ducts shall not be used under any circumstances.
Conduit buried in trenches or in the ground is not permitted.
3.1.9 Where existing cable sleeves are to be utilized, the contractor shall ensure that the lower most ducts
are employed, thereby leaving any remaining ducts accessible for future use.
3.1.10 Cable ducts shall be sealed at both ends using materials that are not soluble in hydrocarbons, and that
are resistant to any likely corrosive and insect attack in the area concerned.
3.2 FIRE BARRIERS
3.2.1 Where conduit, ducting and/or trunking pass through fire-resistant structural elements such as walls
and floors designated as fire barriers, the openings made shall be sealed according to the appropriate
degree of fire resistance. In addition to this external fire barrier, an internal fire-resistant barrier shall
also be provided to prevent the spread of fires.
3.3 CABLES INSTALLED UNDERGROUND
3.3.1 Direct buried cables shall be bedded in 75mm of clean sand or riddled soil, covered with similar
material, then protected by concrete slabbing or interlocking tiles. The trench shall be backfilled over
a plastic identification tape laid for as detailed under cable and cable trench marking.
3.3.2 Prefabricated concrete troughs or preformed trenches in which cables are laid shall be filled with
clean sand to provide the top layer of cables with a minimum of 75mm cover, or be completely filled
with sand if this should be required by circumstances.
3.3.3 Prefabricated cable troughs, partly or wholly filled with sand shall be closed using prefabricated
concrete covers. Such covers shall be provided, by the contractor, to meet any particular load
bearing requirements but shall not be less than adequate for use as a footpath.
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3.3.4 Preformed trenches shall be sand filled and closed by floating over with concrete of adequate
strength and thickness.
3.3.5 The use of chequer plating and other materials for closing cable troughs, trenches etc., shall be
confined to those conditions where such special treatment is fully justified technically and
economically and shall be agreed by the Engineer.
3.3.6 Power cables operating at voltages of 400 volts and above shall not be routed below 'jacked-up' typed
unfixed flooring systems in any internal area unless unavoidable for the purpose of supplying
equipment installed on the flooring system. In such cases the power cables must be totally enclosed
within a steel trunking, conduit, etc., over their entire route length below the flooring system
irrespective of the type of cable used.
3.3.7 Cable trench and prefabricated trough depths should not normally have less than 500mm. Direct
buried cables should not normally have less than 500mm of cover from cable to finished grade level.
The above shall be varied according to the requirements of actual site conditions and cable routes to
provide adequate safeguard against, for example, erosion, soft ground conditions and mechanical
damage etc. The maximum thickness of any one group of cables shall not exceed 75mm unless
otherwise agreed with the Engineer.
3.3.8 Cable Sheath of External Buried Cables
All cables directly buried in external areas should have MDPE (medium density polyethylene) outer
sheath where ever specified. Other characteristics of external cables shall be similar to XLPE
insulated cables.
3.3.9 Cable in Duct
All external cables shall be laid in UPVC underground ducts or direct buried as per project specific
application. Duct type / thickness - refer section 2.5 A – Section 6 – Cable Management System.
3.4 CABLE AND CABLE TRENCH MARKING
3.4.1 All cables shall be fitted with indestructible identification bands at each end and then over their entire
length at 30 metre intervals, at all points where they enter and leave ducts, and at changes in
direction, etc.
3.4.2 Concrete or slabs covering cable trenches shall be coloured for identification purposes. Similarly,
where cables run under floors, markers shall be employed to clearly define the extent of the cable
way over the entire route.
3.4.3 The route of underground electric cables shall be marked by permanent markers posts. They shall be
reinforced concrete units fitted with lead inserts bearing cable sizes and references. The marker post
shall extent above ground level or shall be flush with the final ground level according to the site and
Engineer's requirements. Two or more markers shall be visible from any point on the route and
markers shall be placed at any divergence from the straight.
3.4.4 The location of all underground power cables shall be clearly identifiable throughout their route
length by means of a polyethylene board laid in the ground at 300mm above each cable. The board
shall be coloured red and continuously marked, with black indelible lettering of not less than 12mm
high, to read the following message in both Arabic and English:
"CAUTION BURIED ELECTRIC CABLE 300 mm BELOW"
"HV CABLE", "ELECTRIC CABLE", "ELV CABLE", "EARTH PIT" or "CABLE
JOINT"
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3.4.5 A sample of the polyethylene board shall be submitted to the Engineer for approval prior to any cable
laying works being carried out.
3.4.6 The cable trench as shown on the drawings between service block and main building cable
termination room shall be decided taking into consideration of laying all cables within the trench in 3
or 4 layers on cable ladders with sufficient access space. The crossing of other services through the
trench must also be considered while deciding the exact width and depth.
3.5 JOINTING AND TERMINATIONS
3.5.1 All cable conductors shall be fitted with a correctly sized cable socket or thimble and a means of
identification. The cable sockets may be of the sweated or crimped compression types. If for the
former the solder should have a melting point of not less than 185 deg. C and if for the latter, they
must be the appropriate tools as specified by the manufacturers of the joint connectors. The cable
terminations shall be made following the positive identification of the conductors in accordance with
the specified phase rotation sequence.
3.5.2 Joints in cable are not allowed and shall not be carried out without the written approval of the
Engineer. Low tension cable joints shall incorporate compression type ferrules with polyethylene
tape insulation housed in a plastic joint box and sealed with cold pouring resin fitting.
3.6 SLEEVE AND SLEEVE-SEAL INSTALLATION FOR ELECTRICAL PENETRATIONS
3.6.1 Install sleeves and sleeve seals at penetrations of exterior floor and wall assemblies.
3.6.2 Sleeves consisting of plastic conduit shall be installed for all cables passing through brick, concrete
and similar structures to permit future withdrawal without disturbing the structure. All sleeves shall
be tightly packed with fire-resisting material of approved type.
3.6.3 All exposed or concealed cables rising from the ground or floor as well as horizontally run cables
2 meters or lower from finished floor level shall be protected. The protection shall be by means of
galvanized steel tube or metal channel of minimum thickness 2mm
3.7 TESTING & COMMISSIONING
3.7.1 Physical Check
Check the cable installation and ensure the following:
A. Proper laying and dressing cable cleating /tying cable.
B. Tray supports are adequate.
C. Cable identification and labeling.
D. Glanding and gland earthing termination is correct.
E. No physical damage.
3.7.2 Insulation Resistance Test
A. Conduct insulation resistance test as per cables manufacturer recommendations, and test
requirements.
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B. Measure insulation resistance between cores of all LV cable with a 500 V Megger and
tabulate readings, the readings to be verified with permissible limits (min. 10 Mega
ohms).
C. Measure insulation resistance between cores and ECC and earth terminal with a 500 V
Insulation Tester and tabulate readings. The readings to be verified with permissible
limit.
3.7.3 Phase Rotation Test- Phase rotation at all points should be same other wise rectify.
3.7.4 Performance Test (to be energized temporarily)
A. Switch on all isolators and run all equipment, for 2 hours and verify complete
performance.
B. Check for any unusual temperature rise in cables, terminals and switches and protective
devices.
3.7.5 Provide DC test equipment and apply, after isolation, in the presence of the Engineer, the following
DC test voltages on all cables between cores, cores and sheath and cores and armor:
a) PVC SWA LSZH and XLPE SWA LSZH 1000V grade cable.
1) Between cores: 3500V.
2) Between core and armour: 7000V.
3.7.6 Demonstrate correct phasing of cores in all cables throughout the works and test the insulation of
all cables, both between the cores and between the cores and earth, during installation with a 500V
insulation tester.
3.8 TEMPORARY WIRING
3.8.1 No part of the new installations shall be connected temporarily to the Supply Authority's mains
without the approval of the Engineer and the Authority.
3.8.2 All temporary lighting and electric wiring which the Contractor may require, must be provided by the
Contractor who will be responsible for all charges for electricity consumed as stated in the Contract
conditions.
3.8.3 Temporary wiring and connections executed by the contractor to the instructions of the Engineer
shall be arranged in accordance with the IEE regulations. Where the ambient air temperature is in
excess of 50 deg. C. heat resisting silicon rubber cables shall be used for temporary connection.
Where such cables may be subject to mechanical damage they shall be protected by conduit.
END OF SECTION
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