Every harmonised cable uses insulation and sheath compounds with a type code from EN 50363, such as TI1 or EM2. The code tells you the compound's minimum mechanical strength and the temperatures the cable can work and be installed at.
Compounds in the Goldberg range
| Type | Compound and cables | Tensile min (N/mm²) | Elongation min (%) | Max temp. (°C) | Install from (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TI1 | PVC insulation H07V-K |
12.5 | 125 | 70 | +5 |
| TI2 | PVC insulation, flexible H05VV-F, H03VVH2-F |
10 | 150 | 70 | +5 |
| TM2 | PVC sheath H05VV-F, H03VVH2-F |
10 | 150 | 70 | +5 |
| EI4 | Rubber insulation (EPR) H07RN-F |
5 | 200 | 60* | -25 |
| EM2 | Rubber sheath (polychloroprene) H07RN-F |
10 | 300 | 60* | -25 |
Tensile strength and elongation are minimum values for the unaged compound. Max temp. is the conductor temperature in normal use; install from is the lowest temperature for laying and bending, following the guide to use, EN 50565. *H07RN-F: 60°C is the standard's baseline in normal use (85°C in fixed, protected installation). Some manufacturers use improved compounds rated to 90°C, so check the datasheet for the exact cable.
What the numbers mean
- Tensile strength is how hard the compound can be pulled before it breaks. PVC is stronger than the rubber compounds, which trade strength for flexibility.
- Elongation at break is how far it stretches before breaking. The EM2 rubber sheath stretches to at least three times its length, which is why H07RN-F survives being dragged and trodden on.
- Maximum conductor temperature is the limit for continuous running and sets the current rating.
- Minimum installation temperature is the coldest the cable should be bent or laid at. PVC turns brittle below +5°C, while rubber can be handled down to -25°C.
Reading the codes
The first letter is the material family: T for thermoplastic (PVC) and E for elastomer (rubber). The second is the job: I for insulation and M for sheath. The number is the grade within that family.
Cables made to German VDE standards, such as NSHTÖU-O/J, use their own codes (for example 3GI3 insulation and 5GM3 sheath, to VDE 0207), which are listed on each product page.
Need a cable for cold sites, heat or heavy wear? Ask our team and we'll match the compound to the job.
