ASTM D 2656 : 2013

1.1This specification covers a crosslinked polyethylene insulation for electrical wires and cables for conductor sizes 8 AWG (8.37 mm²) and larger. The base polymer of this insulation consists substantially of polyethylene.

1.2This type of insulation is suitable for use on power cables in wet and dry locations at conductor temperatures not exceeding 90 °C for continuous operation, 130 °C for emergency overload conditions, and 250 °C for short-circuit conditions. It is considered suitable for all sizes and voltage classifications of single- and multiple-conductor power cables at voltage ratings of 2001 to 35000 V phase-to-phase at the 100 % insulation level and at voltage ratings of 2001 to 25000 V at the 133 % insulation level as listed in Table 1C of Test Methods D470.

1.3Materials covered by this specification are not sunlight- and weather-resistant unless they are carbon black pigmented or contain an additive system designed for this protection.

1.4In many instances the insulation cannot be tested unless it has been formed around a conductor. Therefore, tests are done on insulated wire in this standard solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation and not to test the conductor or completed cable.

1.5Whenever two sets of values are presented, in different units, the values in the first set are the standard, while those in parentheses are for information only.