VVG and VBShv power cables: a complete guide to the grades
Power cables are the backbone of any electrical network. In this article we go through all the grades of the VVG and VBShv series, their differences and their applications.
The VVG series — cables with PVC insulation
VVGng(A)-LS is the basic cable for fixed wiring inside buildings. Decoding the marking: V — PVC core insulation, V — PVC sheath, G — no protective covering, ng(A) — flame retardant (category A), LS — Low Smoke and reduced gas emission. It is mandatory under the PUE (Electrical Installation Code) for wiring in public buildings, shopping centres, schools and hospitals.
VVGng(A)-FRLS is a fire-resistant cable that keeps working for at least 180 minutes during a fire. FR (Fire Resistant) means the cable continues to carry power even when exposed to open flame. It is used for fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, evacuation systems and fire-fighting pumps.
VVGng(A)-FRLSLTx is a fire-resistant cable with reduced toxicity of combustion products. LTx (Low Toxicity) means that combustion releases a minimum of toxic substances. It is mandatory for metro systems, tunnels and underground structures.
VVGng(A)-LSLTx is a low-toxicity cable without fire resistance. It suits sites with elevated safety requirements that do not, however, need the cable to keep operating during a fire.
VVG-Png(A)-LS is a flat cable for concealed wiring in walls and under plaster. The letter P denotes the flat construction, which is convenient for laying in chases. It saves installation time.
VVGEng(A)-LS is a screened cable with a copper screen. The letter E (E for screen) denotes the screen that protects against electromagnetic interference. It is used to connect sensitive equipment, medical devices and server rooms.
VVGEng(A)-FRLS is a screened fire-resistant cable. It combines interference protection with fire resistance. Intended for automation systems at fire-hazardous sites.
The VBShv series — armoured cables
VBShvng(A)-LS is an armoured cable for direct burial in the ground without additional protection. B — armour made of two steel tapes, Shv — outer PVC hose over the armour. The steel armour protects against mechanical damage during earthworks and against rodents.
VBShvng(A)-FRLS is an armoured fire-resistant cable. For underground installation at critical sites: nuclear power plants, the oil and gas industry and power-generation facilities.
Cross-section selection table
| Cross-section | Max. current (copper, PVC) | Typical application |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 mm² | up to 23 A | Lighting, low-current circuits |
| 2.5 mm² | up to 30 A | Socket circuits |
| 4 mm² | up to 41 A | Electric cookers, air conditioners, water heaters |
| 6 mm² | up to 50 A | Apartment service entrances |
| 10 mm² | up to 80 A | House service entrances, small business |
| 16–35 mm² | 75–120 A | Distribution lines, main distribution boards (VRU) |
| 50–185 mm² | 145–350 A | Trunk lines, industrial service entrances |
Current values: for cross-sections of 1.5–10 mm² — single copper conductors with PVC insulation, run openly in air (PUE-7, table 1.3.4); for 16–185 mm² — three-core copper cables run in air (PUE-7, table 1.3.6). The actual permissible current depends on the number of cores, the installation method and the temperature — check the PUE tables for your specific conditions.
How to read the marking
Example: VVGEng(A)-FRLS 3×2.5
- V — PVC core insulation
- V — PVC sheath
- G — no protective covering
- E — copper screen
- ng(A) — flame retardant, category A
- FR — fire resistant (180 min in a fire)
- LS — reduced smoke emission
- 3×2.5 — 3 cores with a cross-section of 2.5 mm²