Which cable should I use in the DC network between the DC distribution and EnergyHub?

*NOTE: The information below is directed towards installers. Only trained electricians are allowed to install Ferroamp’s products.  

Answer:

The cable between the DC distribution and EnergyHub is sized based on the maximum power from the EnergyHub. The cables should have an earth conductor and can either be designed as three-core cables with earth, where two conductors are used for L+ and L-, or five-core or four-core cables with a screen, where two conductors are used for L+ and two for L-, and the fifth conductor or the screen is used for earth. 

Most common power cables with a rated voltage of 450/750 VAC or higher can be used in DC voltage networks with a voltage level of 380/760 VDC. Construction standards for power cables usually specify a DC voltage level that is 50% higher than the rated voltage for AC. A cable with a rated voltage of 0.6/1 kV AC can thus be used with a DC voltage of up to 0.9/1.5 kV. 

In Sweden, power cables with a rated voltage of 0.6/1 kV manufactured in accordance with SS 424 14 18 (the Swedish version of HD 603 S1) can be used for DC voltage up to 1.5 times the rated voltage. The table below provides examples of cables from different manufacturers that can be used with DC voltage. 

Example:

Below is a table providing examples of some common combinations that can be used for all installation methods with PEX-insulated cables. For larger projects, it's recommended to always verify the total sizing considering the chosen cable type, selected installation method, and lengths. 

Cables between the EnergyHub and SSO must be sized so that the total voltage drop does not exceed 2%. The table above is based on a maximum 1% voltage drop between the EnergyHub and DC distribution, leaving a 1% margin for the cable between the DC distribution and SSO. 

Tools: 
More detailed calculations for other lengths and installation methods can be done using Ferroamp's cable calculator. 

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