Low Voltage Cable Short Circuit Rating Calculator (up to 1kV)

Calculate the maximum permissible short circuit current of cables up to 1kV with copper conductors.

Formula:

\[\displaystyle I_{(kA)} = \frac{S}{\sqrt{t}} \cdot K\]

Variables:

  • \(I\) = Short Circuit Rating (kA) - Maximum fault current the cable can withstand
  • \(S\) = Conductor Cross-sectional Area (mm²) - Cable size
  • \(t\) = Duration of Short Circuit (sec) - Typically matching circuit breaker clearing time
  • \(K\) = Material Constant - Depends on insulation type

K Values by Insulation Type:

XLPE & XLSZH Cables:

\(K = 0.143\) (Higher thermal stability)

PVC Insulated Cables:

  • \(K = 0.115\) for \(S \leq 300\text{ mm}^2\)
  • \(K = 0.103\) for \(S > 300\text{ mm}^2\)

Important Notes:

  • Values are for copper conductors only
  • Applicable for low voltage cables up to 1kV
  • Short circuit duration typically ranges from 0.1 to 5 seconds
  • Consider derating factors for ambient temperature and installation conditions