BS7870 Medium Voltage Cable

BS7870 Medium Voltage Cable

Medium Voltage Cables For Distribution Networks

Cleveland Cable Company is the UK's largest supplier of BS7870 cable. The standard covers cables at 11kV and 33kV voltage ratings. These MV cables are typically XLPE insulated and finished with an MDPE sheath, however an LSZH sheath is also available – they are engineered for underground and ducted power distribution in utility, industrial and infrastructure projects.

Within this range you will find 11kV cables and 33k cables manufactured to BS7870, to support consistent performance, quality and compatibility with DNO and private networks.

Category Overview For Buyers And Specifiers

B2B buyers and specifiers can use this category to compare:

  • System voltage ratings: 11kV and 33kV
  • Compliance with BS7870 and other MV cable standards
  • Conductor sizes, materials and core configurations
  • Sheath options: PVC, MDPE and LSZH
  • Armoured and unarmoured constructions for different installation conditions

Whether you are designing a new feeder, reinforcing an existing distribution network or sourcing replacement MV cables, this category is structured to support informed, compliant purchasing decisions.

11kV Cable Options

Typical Applications And Installation Methods

11kV cables to BS 7870 are widely used for primary and secondary distribution in:

  • Utility distribution networks: DNO, IDNO and ICP
  • Industrial plants and process facilities
  • Commercial and campus networks
  • Renewable connection points and private HV networks

They are commonly installed via direct burial into the ground, pulled into ducts, routed in cable trenches, or, in some cases, mounted to structures through the use of tray, ladder and cleats to ensure appropriate mechanical and environmental protection.

Single-Core, Three-Core And Triplex Variants

Within the 11kV range you will typically see:

  • Single core: MV cables for higher current ratings, flexible routing and use in trefoil or flat formation
  • Three core: cables providing a compact solution where space is limited or where installation simplicity is a priority
  • Triplex: cable assemblies where three single cores are laid up and twisted together to ease handling and installation while maintaining the benefits of single core designs

Selecting between these formats depends on fault level calculations, installation method, available space and network design philosophy.

Common Construction And Sheath Choices

Most 11kV BS7870 cables are XLPE insulated, providing good thermal and electrical performance at medium voltage. Construction commonly includes:

  • Copper or aluminium conductor, stranded for flexibility and current capacity
  • Semi-conductive screens over conductor and insulation
  • Metallic screen, usually copper wire, for earthing and fault return paths
  • Optional steel wire or steel tape armour for mechanical protection
  • Outer sheath in PVC, MDPE or LSZH depending on installation conditions and fire safety priorities

PVC sheaths are often used in internal or ducted environments, MDPE for robust underground service, and LSZH where low smoke and halogen free performance is required.

11kV BS7870 Cables We Supply

33kV Cable Options

Distribution And Generation Use Cases

33kV cables are a core component of higher voltage distribution and sub-transmission networks. Typical uses include:

  • Utility 33kV distribution feeders
  • Wind, solar and other renewable generation export circuits
  • Industrial and utility substations
  • Interconnection between primary substations and large consumers

These cables carry higher voltage and power levels than 11kV, and their design must reflect higher insulation thickness, enhanced electrical stress control and appropriate screening.

Armoured And Unarmoured Configurations

In this category, 33kV cables may be offered as:

  • Armoured MV cables: with steel wire or tape armour for direct burial and areas where mechanical damage is a concern
  • Unarmoured: typically for installation in dedicated ducts, cable tunnels or areas where external protection is otherwise provided

The choice between armoured and unarmoured will depend on soil conditions, installation depth, mechanical risks and project specifications.

33kV BS7870 Cables We Supply

How BS7870 Relates To 11kV And 33kV Cables

All of the 11kV cables and 33kV cables in this category are designed and tested in line with the compliance of BS7870. For specifiers, referencing BS7870 ensures:

  • Compatibility with established UK utility practices
  • Confidence that insulation, screening and sheathing meet recognised performance criteria
  • Alignment with the expectations of DNOs and IDNOs when connecting private networks

When you see a BS7870 cable designation, it signals compliance with a structured, independently published set of cable performance requirements.

Compliance And Utility Network Relevance

Compliance with BS7870 is important for:

  • Network adoption by utilities
  • Meeting regulatory and safety expectations
  • Supporting long-term reliability and reduced lifecycle risk

Manufacturers typically carry out mechanical, electrical and, where relevant, fire performance tests defined by the standard. Buyers should request test reports and certification where network acceptance is critical.

Why Choose Cleveland Cable?

  • UK’s largest stockist of BS7870 Medium Voltage Cable
  • High-quality, British and European Standard certified products
  • Competitive prices with fast UK and international delivery
  • Expert support for your cable requirements
  • In-house BSI testing lab to ensure the highest quality is maintained in the supply chain

Browse our full range online | Contact Cleveland Cable today for expert advice and bulk pricing

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