Solar PV cable used a AC sub main

Question

Hi , 
 
 I&rsquo;ve come across an installation where a second consumer unit is supplied via some solar flex 6mm. The consumer unit is connected to the solar inverter and a garden cabin. 
 There is no BS number, but it is stamped OLFLEX SOLAR XLS-R 0.6/1KV 6.0 SQ MM 
 The cable has a stranded conductor, white plastic insulation with a black sheath. 
 is it okay to use this cable for AC voltages and does it need to be in containment or would it be considered double insulated?

AJJewsbury · Accepted Answer

The data sheet ( https://lapplimited.lappgroup.com/products/online-catalogue/power-and-control-cables/special-applications/photovoltaic/oelflex-solar-xls-r.html?type=1664268841 ) seems to suggest it's fine for AC up to U0/U : 600/1000 V (DC U0/U : 900/1500 V) - so no worries on that score. 
 It'll be insulated & sheathed - so deemed to give shock protection by double or reinforced insulation, provided it's suitable for the environment (as as for the d.c. side). If it's exposed to sunlight it might even to be an improvement on most conventional cables that have no defined UV resistance. 
 The ends would have to be identified (e.g. brown/blue/G/Y sleeving or tape) but that's doable. Likewise might need some care with termination (not all terminals are good for fine stranded) - but at worst a ferrule should sort that. 
 No good for direct burial underground of course, on concealed in walls without a 30mA RCD, but there's no suggestion that it's been used that way. 
 All in all, it's unconventional, but I don't see why couldn't be made to comply. 
 - Andy.

Jam · Answer

You mean this ? 
 The datasheet (and cable marking) says it's rated for 600/1000V for AC, so in theory usable; perhaps consider similar to a double-insulation outdoor-rated version of tri-rated. Whether the installation it conforms to BS7671 will depend on the details e.g. risk of mechanical damage etc. 
 Note that the conductors will be class 5 stranded and tinned so may need treatment (ferrules) in terminations, depending on the equipment. 
 Lapp say it's UKCA marked so should conform to some standard, but I can't see which on the datasheet. I can't find it on their CPR register either. (Do let me know if you find it)

Jam · Answer

PS Beaten to it, darn telephone! (c:

Solar PV cable used a AC sub main

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