IEC 60227 standard: Summary and official reference sources

1. Overview of IEC 60227 standard

IEC 60227 specifies technical requirements for rigid and flexible cables with insulation, and sheath if applicable, made of PVC (Polyvinyl chloride). This set of standards applies to wires and cables with rated voltages up to and including 450/750V, for applications in electrical installation systems with nominal voltages not exceeding 450/750 V alternating current.

Detailed technical information

The table below provides key technical specifications. You can quickly reference and evaluate products based on this information.

Equivalent standard in Vietnam

In Vietnam, TCVN 6610 is considered equivalent to IEC 60227. Domestic electrical cable products comply with technical requirements equivalent to international standards. This ensures competitiveness and export capability for domestic manufacturers.

2. Summary of the 7 parts of the standard set

The IEC 60227 standard set is divided into 7 separate parts. Each part focuses on a specific technical aspect. The summary below will help engineers and manufacturers easily reference information suitable for their design or manufacturing needs.

2.1. IEC 60227-1: General requirements

Part 1 lays the foundation for the entire standard set. Main contents include:

• Regulations on conductor materials (annealed copper)
• Conductor structure (single-wire or multi-wire)
• Minimum insulation thickness
• Basic electrical characteristics (resistance, capacitance)

All types of cables within the scope of the standard must comply with requirements in this part.

2.2. IEC 60227-2: Test methods

Part 2 specifies detailed quality testing methods. Standardized test procedures ensure consistency between laboratories.

Important tests:

• Insulation strength test: Applying high voltage to the insulation layer to detect defects
• Repeated bending test: Checking the ability to withstand mechanical deformation

Products must pass all tests with satisfactory results to receive certification.

2.3. Parts 3-7: Cable types by application

The remaining 5 parts focus on individual cable types:

IEC 60227-3: Single cables without sheath

• Application: Electrical panels and junction boxes
• Features: High rigidity, good tensile strength
• Operating temperature: 70°C

IEC 60227-4: Sheathed cables

• Application: Portable equipment and power cords
• Features: High flexibility, good bending resistance
• Operating temperature: 70°C

IEC 60227-5: Flexible multi-core cables

• Application: Temporary works and industrial equipment
• Features: High flexibility, easy to instal
• Operating temperature: 70°C

IEC 60227-6: Round cables, flat cables and cables for flexible connections

• Application: Specialized for elevator systems
• Features: Flat structure, withstands continuous bending
• Operating temperature: 70°C

IEC 60227-7: Round cables, flat cables and cables for flexible connections

• Application: Connecting machine parts for manufacturing purposes, applications inside buildings, electromagnetic interference environments
• Operating temperature: 70°C

Each cable type has different technical requirements and working environments. The division into separate parts helps you correctly identify the applicable standard. Engineers need to refer to both the general parts (parts 1 and 2) and the specific part for the type of cable being used.

3. Practical applications of cables meeting IEC 60227 standard

Electrical cables meeting IEC 60227 standard are widely used in three main application groups.

3.1. Residential group

This is the segment that accounts for a large proportion of the market. Specific applications include:

• In-wall installation or in conduits for residential buildings
• Lighting circuits and electrical outlets in apartments
• Accounts for approximately 70% of the market according to Ngoc Lan Cable's experience

With good moisture resistance and protection of electrical systems under high humidity conditions, PVC-sheathed cables are primarily applied in residential electrical systems.

3.2. Commercial building group

Commercial buildings prioritize economy and reliability:

• Applications: Shopping centers, hotels, schools, offices
• Advantages: Installation cost 20-30% lower than XLPE cables while still meeting technical requirements
• Suitable for: Medium and small-scale projects with reasonable budgets

3.3. Light industrial group

In light industrial environments, IEC 60227 cables have the following applications:

• Connecting electrical panels and control systems
• Using flexible multi-core cables (IEC 60227-5) for high flexibility during installation
• Color-coded sheaths differentiated by purpose of use ensuring labor safety

4. Guide to reference and purchase IEC 60227 standard

Referring to original standard documents is crucial for design, manufacturing, and certification activities. IEC 60227 is a copyrighted document, and you need to purchase from official sources to obtain the latest updated version.

4.1. Official source: IEC webstore

IEC Webstore (https://webstore.iec.ch/) is the sole distribution channel of the International Electrotechnical Commission. This is the direct source from the issuing organization, where you will receive a PDF or printed version with complete authenticated technical content.

Access IEC 60227 to find detailed information about available versions and pricing.

4.2. Reference cost information

Standard parts are listed in Swiss Francs (CHF). Prices vary depending on the length and complexity of each document.

Pricing information:

• Price differences: Parts are updated and issued at different times, therefore the price of each part will vary.
• Current reference prices: As of October 2025, new parts such as IEC 60227-4:2024 are priced at 80 CHF/copy (≈ 100.95 USD) and IEC 60227-7:2024 at 136 CHF/copy (≈ 171.61 USD).

4.3. Important notes

You should not use copies of unclear origin from the internet and should regularly update to new standards periodically. Older versions may contain outdated information that is no longer appropriate.

Investing in the official version is necessary for all professional projects. This ensures legal compliance and proper technical standards.

5. Summary of IEC 60227 standard

Through this article, you have gained comprehensive knowledge about the IEC 60227 standard. This is an important technical document for low voltage PVC cables. Understanding the structure and scope of application helps you make appropriate cable selection decisions for all projects.

Important points about IEC 60227 standard you need to note:

• Definition: IEC 60227 specifies requirements for PVC insulated cables with voltage ratings up to and including 450/750V
• 7-part structure: From general requirements (Part 1), test methods (Part 2), to specific cable types (Parts 3-7)
• Practical applications: Residential construction accounts for 70% of the market, commercial and light industrial sectors for distribution boards

When selecting an electric cable supplier, request certification of compliance with international standards. Ngoc Lan Cable's products fully meet IEC 60227 certifications, providing stable quality for all projects from residential to industrial.

For detailed technical consultation on selecting the appropriate cable type, our engineering team is ready to assist. Contact us now to receive quotations and free consultation for your project.