IEC 60230:2018

Overview

IEC 60230:2018 - "Impulse tests on cables and their accessories" - is the International Electrotechnical Commission standard that defines the procedures for carrying out lightning impulse, switching impulse and superimposed impulse tests on cables and cable accessories. It addresses the methods and test installation requirements for performing impulse withstand tests and research tests above the specified withstand level. IEC 60230 focuses on how to perform the tests; the actual test levels and voltages are taken from system or product standards such as IEC 60183 or the relevant product standard.

Key topics and requirements

• Test scope and purpose: Procedures for withstand lightning impulse, switching impulse and superimposed impulse tests (impulse applied while the object is energized by DC).
• Test object conditions: Minimum sample lengths (e.g., free cable length of at least 5 m where applicable), spacing between joints, pressure and temperature conditioning as required by product standards.
• Impulse waveforms:
  • Lightning impulse: standard lightning waveform per IEC 60060‑1 with front time T1 between 1 µs and 5 µs.
  • Switching impulse: standard switching waveforms per IEC 60060‑1.
• Superimposed impulse tests: Specific procedure for HVDC cable systems where impulse is applied concurrently with DC voltage; time parameters must be established with DC source off (base around 0 kV).
• Application procedure:
  • Typical series: 10 positive and 10 negative impulses at the specified level and shape.
  • Conditioning impulses at approximately 50%, 65% and 80% of the specified voltage may precede a series.
  • Record at least the 1st and 10th impulses in each series; record ambient and cable temperatures and pressure where applicable.
• Measuring systems and calibration:
  • Preferred measurement: an approved measuring system in accordance with IEC 60060‑2.
  • Annex B provides alternative calibration methods (sphere gap moved to Annex B).
• Annexes:
  • Annex A: guidance for tests above withstand level (research).
  • Annex B: calibration of impulse generator.
  • Annex C: test circuits for superimposed impulse voltage tests.

Applications and users

IEC 60230 is aimed at organizations performing high-voltage impulse testing on cables and accessories, including:

• Cable manufacturers (type and development testing)
• Independent high-voltage test laboratories and test houses
• Utilities and system operators validating cable performance (especially HVDC systems)
• R&D teams conducting research or tests above withstand levels
• Certification bodies and conformity assessors (methodology reference)

Practical applications include type testing of transmission and distribution cables, verification of cable accessories (joints, terminations) under lightning/switching stress, and composite (DC + impulse) testing for HVDC installations.

Related standards

• IEC 60060‑1 - High‑voltage test techniques: Definitions and test requirements (waveform definitions)
• IEC 60060‑2 - High‑voltage test techniques: Measuring systems (recommended measuring systems)
• IEC 60183 and relevant product standards - specify applicable voltage levels and system-specific requirements

Keywords: IEC 60230, impulse tests, cables, lightning impulse, switching impulse, superimposed impulse, HVDC cable testing, impulse generator calibration, IEC 60060, cable accessories.