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Insulating Matting – IEC 61111 Specifications & Selection For Switchboard Matting

CATU Electrical

Uploaded By: Chris Dodds - reading time 5 minutes

Insulating matting is a essential component of electrical safety and is specified and installed to provide protection against electrical shock and hazards around electrical equipment, such as switchboards and switchgear – this can include Low Voltage, Medium Voltage & High Voltage. 

As part of a facilities standard risk assessment, where a potential for electrocution is present, then electrical insulating safety matting (commonly referred to as switchboard or switchgear matting) is recommended in the HSE’s Safe Working Practices for Electricity At Work document (HSG85) where it references BS EN 61111: 2009 (Live Working: Electrical Insulating Matting British Standards Institution).

“providing and using correct personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce the
risk of contact with live parts or earth, eg insulating gloves, insulating matting
(see BS EN 61111:200917). If there is a risk of burns from arcing or flashover
that cannot be avoided, consider the use of adequately rated, thermally
insulating, flame-resistant, arc flash clothing or PPE (including face/eye protection).” HSG85

The range of CATU insulating matting conforms to the standards set out in IEC 61111 and provides MV-HV electrical protection for personnel working on medium and high voltage switchgear, switchboards, control panels and transformers.

The IEC 61111 standard sets out the requirements that must be met and supersedes the standard CLC/TS 61111:2006 and includes the following significant technical points:

• General review of the requirements and test provisions
• Modification of the test procedure for slip resistance matting
• Specification of standard and alternative types of electrodes for the proof test
• The conditioning time for low temperature folding test of insulating matting

IEC 61111:2009 is applicable to electrical insulating matting made of elastomer for use as a floor covering for the electrical protection of workers on electrical installations, including 11kV and 33kV substations.

LV MV HV Insulting Matting Explained

Selection of insulating mats for specific applications depends on the worker exposure to operating voltage and matting is tested to withstand certain specified voltages – referred to as the safe working voltage detailed below. Electrical safety matting is tested to a higher voltage than the certified use voltage – the voltage at which the matting is certified to is the Safe Working Voltage.

CATU Electrical insulating matting is specified and tested to IEC 61111 Category C with working temperatures to – 40°C for the following voltages:

• LV Insulating Matting – Class 0 Safe Working Voltages 600V 1000V
• MV HV Insulating Matting – Class 3 Safe Working Voltage 3.3kV 6.6kV 11kV 15kV 26.5kV
• MV HV Insulating Matting – Class 4 Safe Working Voltage 3.3kV 6.6kV 11kV 15kV 33/36kV

Products that are covered by the IEC 61111 standard include live working, electrical insulating materials, insulating matting, elastomers, floor coverings, electrical safety, electric shocks, safety devices, occupational safety, classification systems, grades (quality), marking and testing.

See live working tools for further information about insulated tools in accordance with IEC Standards for working on energised low voltage cables.

Protecting Jointers & Electrical Engineers When Working Live On Cables & Switchgear – comprehensive ranges of insulating matting and insulated tools.

Catu Electrical insulating matting

Electrical insulating matting is available in roll form for placement and rolling-out in front of medium/high voltage switchgear rooms, motor control centres (MCC), traction power substations and UPS rooms.

Portable pre-cut insulating mats are available to provide protection to site engineers and cable jointers working on electrical installations in plant and lift control gear rooms – often used to provide electrical protection when 11kV/33kV jointing, terminating and glanding cables into electrical distribution equipment.

➡ Class 0 Matting | Class 1 Matting | Class 2 Matting | Class 3 Matting | Class 4 Matting

Complete range of LV-HV Insulating Matting for all medium and high voltage switchgear, switchboard and substation electrical safety protection up to 33kV.

Recommendations For Use & Storage of Matting

It is vital to store and use electrical insulating mats in the correct manner in order to prolong their lifespan and ensure they continue to function and provide the insulation levels required. When storing or transporting the matting it should be properly stored and should not be bent or deformed.

The insulated mats should also not be stored or used close to any excessive heat sources or exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. The ideal storage temperature for the mats is between 10°C and 21°C.

When using and installing any insulating matting, a visual inspection should be carried out first. If the mats are dirty they should be cleaned with soap and water and then dried, respecting the operation temperatures mentioned previously.

Ideal operating temperatures are between -40°C and 55°C and the mats should not come into contact with any chemical products as this can also damage the rubber. When installing the mats, place them on a clean smooth floor devoid of any aggressive elements.

Once installed, periodic inspection of the insulating matting should be carried out and mats should not be used if they have not been electrically tested for 12 months.

Typically, Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 matting should be tested every 12 months in accordance with IEC61111 – often a visual inspection for low voltage Class 0 insulating matting is adequate depending on matting condition. Aged matting showing clear deterioration should be subject to routine dielectric test to check and ensure insulating levels are maintained.

Insulating Matting FAQ’s 

How Do Insulating Mats Work?

Rubber is a natural dielectric material and therefore inhibits the flow of electric charge as a result of its molecular structure preventing the free flow of electrons.

Where Should I Use Insulating Matting?

Insulating matting should be installed in front of low, medium and high voltage switchboards, in front of machine control gear, in plant and lift gear control rooms and as portable protection for site engineers working on live electrical equipment.

Matting should also be used in conjunction with electrical safety equipment such as insulating gloves, insulating boots and in some cases arc flash protection clothing.

What Sizes Are Mats Available In?

The working voltage and size of matting is dependent upon the class of the mat. CATU insulating matting is supplied in 5m or 10m long rolls and as either 0.6m wide, 1m wide or 1.2m wide dependent on class. The thickness of the matting is also dependent on voltage class.

What Is The Double Triangle?

Matting with the “double-triangle” symbol confirms the insulating matting is suitable for live working according to IEC 60417-5216.

♦ Further Reading

For more reading about Electrical Safety, read the T&D blog:

• Electrical Safety – Arc Flash Accidents & Electrocution In LV-HV Installations
• Can Arc Flash Clothing Save Cable Jointers Lives?
• Arc Flash Calculation – Selecting Clothing & PPE To Protect Lives Against Arc Hazard

THORNE & DERRICK SPECIALIST ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTOR

LV ♦ MV ♦ HV

T&D distribute the most extensive range of LV, MV & HV Cable Jointing, Terminating, Cable Pulling & Installation Equipment – we service UK and international clients working on underground cables, overhead lines, substations and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV and EHV transmission and distribution voltages.

• Key Products: MV-HV Cable Joints & Terminations, Cable Cleats, Duct Seals, Underground Cable Protection, Cable Jointing Tools, Feeder Pillars, Cable Ducting, Earthing & Lightning Protection, Electrical Safety, Cable Transits, Cable Glands, Arc Flash Protection & Fusegear.

• Distributors for: 3M, ABB, Alroc, Band-It, Catu, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Furse, Lucy Zodion, Nexans Euromold, Pfisterer, Polypipe, Prysmian, Roxtec.

LV – Low Voltage Cable Joints, Glands, Cleats, Lugs & Accessories (1000 Volts)

MV HV – Medium & High Voltage Cable Joints, Terminations & Connectors (11kV 33kV EHV)

Cable Laying – Underground Cable Covers, Ducting, Seals & Cable Pulling Equipment

INVITATION

Thorne & Derrick invite you to join LinkedIn’s largest LV-HV Electrical Discussion Group : Low & High Voltage Power, Cabling, Jointing & Electricals. Discussion subjects include cable installations, cable jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV and EHV. Network, engage and promote your profile, company or products with over 10,000 influencers.

Saipem

• Client: Saipem
• Company Type: EPC
• Location: International
• Sector: Oil, Gas & Chemicals

Thorne & Derrick are Approved Vendors to Saipem of LV, MV & HV Cables, Accessories, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt.

T&D provide an outstanding service to UK and international customers – we are highly customer responsive and absolutely committed to providing a world-class service. 

We supply UK and international businesses involved in cable installations, jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV.

We provide global express delivery from stock at competitive prices.

Export Services ♦ International Delivery ♦ Certification ♦ Packing ♦ Inspections ♦

Thorne & Derrick International

• Key Products: MV-HV Cable Joints & Terminations, Cable Cleats, Duct Seals, Cable Transits, Underground Cable Protection, Cable Jointing Tools, Feeder Pillars, Cable Ducting, Earthing & Lightning Protection, Electrical Safety, Cable Glands, Arc Flash Clothing Protection & Fusegear.

• Distributors for: 3M, ABB, Alroc, Band-It, Catu Electrical, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Furse, Lucy Zodion, Nexans Euromold, Pfisterer, Polypipe, Prysmian, Roxtec.

LV – Low Voltage Cable Joints, Glands, Cleats, Lugs & Accessories (1000 Volts)

MV HV – Medium & High Voltage Cable Joints, Terminations & Connectors (11kV 33kV EHV)

Cable Laying – Underground Cable Covers, Ducting, Seals & Cable Pulling Equipment

Bechtel

• Client: Bechtel Corporation
• Company Type: EPC
• Location: International
• Sector: Oil, Gas & Chemicals

Thorne & Derrick are Suppliers to Bechtel Corporation of LV, MV & HV Cables, Accessories, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt.

T&D provide an outstanding service to UK and international customers – we are highly customer responsive and absolutely committed to providing a world-class service. 

We supply UK and international businesses involved in cable installations, jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV.

We provide global express delivery from stock at competitive prices.

Export Services ♦ International Delivery ♦ Certification ♦ Packing ♦ Inspections ♦

Thorne & Derrick International

• Key Products: MV-HV Cable Joints & Terminations, Cable Cleats, Duct Seals, Cable Transits, Underground Cable Protection, Cable Jointing Tools, Feeder Pillars, Cable Ducting, Earthing & Lightning Protection, Electrical Safety, Cable Glands, Arc Flash Clothing Protection & Fusegear.

• Distributors for: 3M, ABB, Alroc, Band-It, Catu Electrical, Cembre, Centriforce, CMP, Elastimold, Ellis Patents, Emtelle, Furse, Lucy Zodion, Nexans Euromold, Pfisterer, Polypipe, Prysmian, Roxtec.

LV – Low Voltage Cable Joints, Glands, Cleats, Lugs & Accessories (1000 Volts)

MV HV – Medium & High Voltage Cable Joints, Terminations & Connectors (11kV 33kV EHV)

Cable Laying – Underground Cable Covers, Ducting, Seals & Cable Pulling Equipment

Duct Seals – Sealing Cable Ducts Containing Low Voltage Control Cables

• Product Category: Duct Seals
• Application: Sealing Cable Ducts Containing LV Control Cables (Flexible & Insulated)
• Voltage: Low Voltage 600/100V
• Sector: Cold Rooms For Food Production & Storage
• Product Installed: Filoseal+HD Cable Duct Sealing System
• Project Information: The Filoseal cable duct seal system was selected to seal 50mm and 110mm outside diameter cable ducts to provide up to 2 bar Pressure Resistance and prevent water ingress into the low voltage control rooms effecting sensitive electronic and electrical equipment.
• See Also: Cable Transits

Refrigerant Plant Control Wiring

Duct Seals

Thorne & Derrick International

Since 1985 Thorne & Derrick based in the UK have been specialist distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Installation, Jointing, Substation, Arc Flash Clothing & Electrical Safety Equipment – customers include UK and worldwide contractors, specifiers, traders and end-users involved in medium and high voltage cable installations, cable jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction.

We are specialist stockists and distributors of 11kV-33kV Cable Joints, Terminations & Connectors from manufacturers including 3M, Pfisterer, Prysmian and Nexans Euromold in a selection of cable jointing technologies including push-on, heat shrink and cold shrink joints and cold shrink terminations.

MV HV | Medium & High Voltage Power Products, Tools, Cables & Electrical Equipment

66kV Cable Jointer Training – A Question Of Competency Not Familiarisation

Uploaded By: Chris Dodds - reading time 5 minutes

66kV Cable Jointer Training

The wait is over.

A responsible Cable Jointer Training Centre professionally committed to safeguarding the industry standards of their trade while providing client recognised and accepted certification. Protecting the present while nurturing the future generation of Jointers.

Helping our Cable Jointers climb the voltage ladder from 11kV to 33kV and 33kV to 66kV.

Carefully pre-qualifying prospective trainees to vet for existing levels of skill and experience – passionately preserving the integrity of the Craft against the spate of underskilled labour flooding the jobs market, undermining day rates and undervaluing standards.

A Jointer Training Centre competent in itself to issue Competency Certification to course attendees. Not Familiarisation. Competency. There is a world of difference.

I can “familiarise” myself with aeroplanes and even book a flight simulator experience but that does not provide me with “competence” to pilot an Airbus A380. Flippant? Not really.

The virtual is not reality nor does 4 days in a Training Centre classroom environment equip jointers with the required expertise to work bent-double, in a muddy hole, in the rain wrestling with 11kV cables.

Electricity is dangerous, it kills – failure to understand the complexities of jointing medium and high voltage cables endangers life. Likewise, working and jointing on live low voltage mains cables requires effective cable jointer training courses to support industry health and safety.

Interested? You Bet! OK, what next?

Read on to discover more about the soon to open new Nexans Training Centre.

Nexans

Nexans Training Centre will be fully equipped to provide practical and theoretical training for Cable Jointers on all aspects of Medium Voltage Cable Accessories. Jointer training courses can be individually tailored to meet the specific requirements of the client. Nexans are intently focussed on the criticality of jointers understanding and perfecting preparation of MV-HV cable using appropriate cable jointing tools.

The newly located and upgraded Jointer Training Centre will be fully operational in October and Nexans new certification will form part of a fully signed Competency Card which consists of a 3 part certified documentation and ID card.

All test-pieces completed by course attendees are tested for AC withstand and partial discharge and in order to obtain a “pass”, the tested installation should have pd levels <10pC. This is conducted on the day of training using Nexans state-of-art test lab.

Training can cover Nexans Joints & Terminations using heat shrink, cold shrink, slip-on and Euromold Connectors.

66kV

Ambitious and forward-thinking 33kV Jointers are already searching for opportunities to add 66kV Jointing Competency to their skill-set and CV’s.

Cable jointers employed to joint and terminate 66kV cables on offshore substation platforms must demonstrate Competency.

High quality training is key to achieving sufficient skillmanship when working on high voltage cable systems and can unlock career progression opportunities.

Back in 2013, The Carbon Trust, as part of its Offshore Wind Accelerator (OWA) launched a competition to fast track the development of new 66kV cables to be used in the offshore wind and renewable industry.

Moving on up from 33kV to 66kV necessitates retraining and Competency Certification for Cable Jointers working on the the termination and jointing of 66kV cables.

OWA developers including DONG Energy, E.ON, Mainstream Renewable Power, RWE Innogy, ScottishPower Renewables, SSE Renewables and Vattenfall representing 77% (36GW) of the UK’s licenced capacity.

See how we can help…

Moving from 33kV to 66kV arrays and subsea cables presents a number of benefits, including the ability to connect more turbines per string and the possibility to design inter-array networks in ring layouts rather than in radial strings, thus increasing reliability.

OWA managed a number of studies investigating these potential benefits, which eventually led to the launch of the 66kV cable qualification competition.

Fast forward to 2016 and Nexans have supplied inter-array and export cables for the world’s first 66kV offshore wind farm.

Clearly, 66kV is the future for renewables.

Nexans 66kV inter-array high voltage cable systems provide the subsea connection between the offshore turbines and the onshore grid for the Blyth Offshore Demonstrator Wind Farm Project. With offshore wind turbines growing in size, the new 66kV Nexans cables and cable connectors are improving the lifecycle cost-efficiency compared to 33kV systems.

Some recommendations for 66kV Jointers Tools

Register Your Interest Today

Confirmed demand for course attendance is exceptional – should you be a Competent 33kV Cable Jointer interested in pre-booking or registering “early-bird” interest for the next course please email your expression of interest today. Course dates, content and costs are to be finalised in coming months.

Successful completion of the 3 Day Jointer Training Course will equip attendees with the required Competency certification to work offshore in the wind energy sector.

Course Details & Our Requirements 

The course duration is 3 days at Nexans Jointer Training Centre, Castleford UK – all attendees must provide their own Jointers Tools and be skilled at 33kV cable preparation. Jointers will be expected to undertake the preparation and stripping of the 66kV cable prior to installation of the cable joint and separable connector – this Course does not certify on the basis of cable preparation. Once cable joint and connector have been installed the test piece of 66kV cable will be subjected to energisation in the test laboratory and AC withstand an Partial Discharge test. This will determine PASS or FAIL.

Typically, the training course aim is to achieve 66kV Competency for the Cable Jointer currently experienced in terminating and testing 33kV cables to Interface C switchgear bushings and installing Slip-On type termination to the MV transformer end on onshore or offshore projects.

Thorne & Derrick

Nexans Main UK Stockist & Distributor

Contact us for Competitive Prices & Fast Delivery from Stocks for Heat Shrink, Cold Shrink & EPDM Rubber Connectors, Joints & Terminations up to 66kV.

Go to our Price List and contact us with your enquiries.

Heat Shrink Cable Accessories for 11kV Triplex Cables

Thorne & Derrick International are specialist distributors of LV, MV & HV Cable Accessories, Jointing, Substation & Electrical Equipment – servicing UK and global businesses involved in cable installations, jointing, substation, overhead line and electrical construction at LV, 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and EHV.

Stocking & Supplying | Duct Seals | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Protection | Jointing Tools | Cable Pulling Eqpt | Earthing & Lightning Protection | Feeder Pillars | Cable Joints LV | Joints & Terminations MV HV

Two Times More Power. Jointers! Empower your CV and skill-set by grasping the 66kV Jointer Training opportunity. Jointers must currently be 33kV Competent and experienced to be ready to undertake the step-up to 66kV from 33kV.

Euromold MV HV | Cable Terminations, Connectors, Elbows & Joints