Have you ever looked at the fine print on a cable and wondered what the codes actually mean? Designations like H05VV-F or RKK might seem like Greek, but they actually tell you everything you need to know about the cable's properties and where it can be used. In this guide, we'll go through the standards so you always choose the right cable for your project.
1. The European Standard (CENELEC)
Most modern cables follow a European standard. Here are the three most important parts to keep track of:
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First letter (H): Stands for Harmonized. This means the cable meets common requirements throughout the EU.
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Numbers (03, 05 or 07): Indicate the voltage class.
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05 is most common for household appliances (300/500V).
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07 is used for slightly heavier devices and machinery (450/750V).
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Material (V, R or Q): * V = PVC (the classic plastic cable, good for indoor use).
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Q = Polyurethane (PUR), extremely resistant to abrasion and oil.
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2. Number of Conductors and the Important "G-Factor"
At the end of the cable code, you often see something like 3G1.5.
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The number (3): Number of conductors inside the cable.
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The letter (G or X): This is vital! G means there is a green/yellow protective conductor (earth). If it says X, the earth conductor is missing.
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The last number (1.5): Area of the copper in mm². The higher the number, the more current the cable can withstand without getting hot.
3. Quick Guide: Which Cable Should I Choose?
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What do the letters mean?
Here is a simple list of the most common letters you see on the cable sheath and what they mean for its area of use:
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V = PVC plastic. The most common insulation for indoor use. Flexible and affordable, but becomes stiff in the cold.
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Q = Polyurethane (PUR). A "super plastic" that is extremely resistant to abrasion, oil, and cold. Often used on construction sites and is usually brightly colored (e.g., orange or blue) for good visibility.
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R = Rubber. Provides a very flexible cable that can be rolled out and in frequently, even in severe cold.
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N = Chloroprene rubber. Often used for electric tools and machines as the material tolerates both oil and heat well.
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X = PEX (Cross-linked polyethylene). A material that withstands high heat and is often found in power cables buried in the ground.
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Z = Halogen-free. If there is a fire, this cable emits no toxic smoke. This is often a requirement in public buildings and modern homes.
Example: What is an EKKJ cable?
EKKJ is one of our most common cables for fixed outdoor installation, for example, when laying power to a garage or outdoor lighting. Here's how to read the name according to the Swedish standard:
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E = Copper conductor (Solid/Stranded conductor).
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K = PVC plastic insulation.
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K = Sheath (outer casing) of PVC plastic.
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J = Concentric conductor (a copper screen under the sheath that functions as earth).
In short: A robust cable that can be laid in the ground (with protective conduit) or attached to exterior walls.
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