IS 58201970AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

precast concrete cable covers

IS 5820:1970 specifies the requirements for precast concrete cable covers used to protect underground electric cables in India. It covers both reinforced and unreinforced types, detailing materials, dimensions, manufacturing processes, and testing methods to ensure durability and safety. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and utility providers involved in the design, production, and installation of cable covers for various voltage ratings.

11Sections
50Clauses Indexed
AI Search Ready
1970Edition
Cement Matrix ProductsCategory
Alternative search terms: IS 5820 PDF, IS 5820 pdf free download, IS 5820 free download pdf, IS5820 PDF, IS-5820 PDF, IS 5820 1970 PDF, IS 5820:1970 PDF, IS 5820-1970 PDF, IS 5820 (1970) PDF, IS 5820 1970 edition PDF, IS 5820 edition 1970 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 5820:1970 specifies the requirements for precast concrete cable covers used to protect underground electric cables in India. It covers both reinforced and unreinforced types, detailing materials, dimensions, manufacturing processes, and testing methods to ensure durability and safety. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and utility providers involved in the design, production, and installation of cable covers for various voltage ratings.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Civil Engineers
  • Electrical Utility Engineers
  • Precast Concrete Manufacturers
  • Quality Control Inspectors
  • Construction Project Managers
  • Infrastructure Designers
  • Testing Laboratory Technicians

Key Topics Covered

Types and classification of precast concrete cable covers
Material specifications for cement, aggregates, water, and reinforcement
Dimensions and tolerances for cable covers
Manufacturing processes including mixing and moulding
Reinforcement details for reinforced covers
Marking and identification requirements
Impact strength testing for reinforced covers
Transverse strength testing for unreinforced covers
Criteria for conformity and sampling procedures
Protection against frost during manufacturing
Use cases based on voltage ratings and protection levels
Standard marking and certification guidelines

Table of Contents

1Scope

The scope of IS 5820 covers the requirements for both reinforced and unreinforced precast concrete covers used for covering cables, as stated in Clause 1.1. It specifies dimensions, shapes, and minimum average breaking loads for various classes and types of cable covers (Clause 4.1, 8.3, and Table 1). The standard also details testing procedures, including soaking samples before testing and the transverse load test setup with self-aligning steel bearers (Clause B-1.1). Additionally, it governs the use of the Standard Mark under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986 (Clause 9.2.1). Key dimensional and load data for different classes (EHV, HVP, HV, LV) and types (flat, with peak) are provided in Table 1.

Sources: Clause 1.1, Clause 4.1, Clause 8.3, Clause 9.2.1, Clause B-1.1, Table 1

2Materials

Key materials specifications from IS 5820 include:

  • Concrete Cable Covers Dimensions and Breaking Loads (Table 1, Clause 4.1, 8.3):
SL No.CLASSTYPESHAPEL (mm)W (mm)T (mm)T' (mm)Min. Avg. Breaking Load (kg)
i)EHV1With peak4502305075450
2With peak6002305075750
ii)HVP1With peak3001804065300
2With peak4501804065350
iii)HV1Flat30018040-300
2Flat45018040-350
iv)LV1Flat25015040-200
2Flat30018040-200
3Flat45018040-200
  • Mixing: Hand mixing, if permitted, must be done on a water-tight platform until uniform color and consistency is achieved (Clause 5.2.1).

  • Steel Reinforcement: Steel wire or rod for reinforcement shall conform to IS 432 (Part I & II), IS 1139, IS 1566, or IS 1786 as agreed (Clause 2.4).

  • Testing: Covers are soaked in water at 15-20°C for 24 hours before testing; tested wet on self-aligning steel bearers with specified loading rate (Clause 1.1).

These specifications ensure quality and performance of concrete cable covers and reinforcement materials.

Sources: Clause 5.2.1, Table 1 (Clauses 4.1, 8.3), Clause 2.4, Clause 1.1

3Classification

As per IS 5820 Clause 3.2, precast concrete cable covers are classified mainly into two types based on shape: with peak and flat. The classification by class and typical use is as follows:

ClassDescriptionTypical Use
EHVReinforced precast concrete, with peakFor underground power cables of 22 kV and 33 kV voltage rating
HVPUnreinforced precast concrete, with peak
HVFlat type precast concrete covers
LVFlat type precast concrete covers

Additionally, Table 1 in Clause 5.2.1 provides detailed dimensions and minimum average breaking loads for various classes and types of cable covers, for example:

ClassTypeShapeL (mm)W (mm)T (mm)T' (mm)Min. Avg. Breaking Load (kg)
EHV1With peak4502305075450
EHV2With peak6002305075750
HVP1With peak3001804065300
HV1Flat30018040-300
LV1Flat25015040-200

This classification helps in selecting appropriate cable covers based on voltage rating and mechanical strength requirements. The shapes (with peak or flat) and reinforcement status define the class and application.

Sources: Clause 3.2, Table 1 in Clause 5.2.1

4Dimensions and Tolerances

As per Clause 4.1 of IS 5820, the dimensions of reinforced and unreinforced precast concrete cable covers shall conform to Table 1 (not fully provided here). The tolerances specified are:

  • Length and width: -3 mm
  • Thickness: ±2 mm

Additionally, Clause 3.3 mentions arched type cable covers may have suitable dimensional changes to conform to standard dimensions.

For testing, Clause 1.1 and Fig. 6 describe the transverse test setup where covers are soaked in water (15–20°C for 24 hours), supported on two 50 mm diameter steel bearers spaced 270 mm apart, and loaded centrally at 9000 N/min ±10% through a third 50 mm diameter bearer.

These specifications ensure dimensional accuracy and quality control of cable covers per IS 5820.

Sources: Clause 4.1, Clause 3.3, Clause 1.1, Fig. 6

5Manufacture

Key specifications and procedures for manufacture as per IS 5820 include:

  • Hand Mixing: When permitted by the engineer-in-charge, hand mixing shall be done on a water-tight platform and continued until the mix is uniform in color and consistency (Clause 5.2.1).

  • Concrete Cable Covers Dimensions and Strength: Table 1 specifies dimensions and minimum average breaking loads for various classes and types of precast concrete cable covers. For example, an EHV Class, Type 1 cover with peak shape has dimensions 450 mm (L) × 230 mm (W) × 50 mm (T) with a minimum breaking load of 450 kg.

  • Testing Procedure: Covers are soaked in water at 15–20°C for 24 hours before testing. They are supported on two 50 mm diameter steel bearers spaced 270 mm apart, and load is applied centrally at 9000 N/min ±10% through a third 50 mm diameter bearer (Clause 1.1).

  • Aggregate Requirements: Aggregates must comply with IS 383-1970; alternative aggregates like blast furnace slag may be used by agreement (Clause 2.2).

These ensure quality and durability in manufacture and testing of concrete cable covers.

Sources: Clause 5.2.1, Table 1, Clause 1.1, Clause 2.2

6General Requirements

The general requirements for precast concrete cable covers per IS 5820 include the following key points:

  • Hand mixing, if permitted, must be done on a water-tight platform ensuring uniform color and consistency (Clause 5.2.1).
  • Dimensions and minimum average breaking loads for various classes and types of cable covers are specified in Table 1 (Clauses 4.1, 8.3). Length and width tolerances are -3 mm, thickness ±2 mm (Clause 4.1).

Table 1: Dimensions and Minimum Average Breaking Load of Precast Concrete Cable Covers

SL No.CLASSTYPESHAPEL (mm)W (mm)T (mm)T' (mm)Min. Avg. Breaking Load (kg)
i)EHV1With peak4502305075450
2With peak6002305075750
ii)HVP1With peak3001804065300
2With peak4501804065350
iii)HV1Flat30018040-300
2Flat45018040-350
iv)LV1Flat25015040-200
2Flat30018040-200
3Flat45018040-200
  • The use of the Standard Mark is governed by BIS rules (Clause 9.2.1).

These specifications ensure structural integrity and standardization of cable covers for electrical installations.

Sources: Clause 5.2.1, Clause 4.1, Table 1, Clause 9.2.1

7Sampling

Key specifications for sampling as per IS 5820 are:

  • Sampling Size: For impact strength testing of reinforced concrete cable covers, take 12 random samples for every consignment of up to 2,000 covers, plus an additional 12 samples for every further 12,000 covers or part thereof (Clause 7.1).

  • Batch Testing Procedure: Samples are divided into two equal batches. If any sample in the first batch fails, all samples in the second batch must be tested. If all second batch samples pass, the consignment conforms; if any fail, the consignment does not conform (Clause 8.2.1).

  • Pre-Test Conditioning: Covers must be soaked in water at 15–20°C for 24 hours before testing and tested wet (Clause 1.1).

  • Test Setup: Covers are supported on two self-aligning steel bearers 50 mm diameter, spaced 270 mm apart. Load is applied centrally at 9,000 N/min ±10% via a third 50 mm diameter steel bearer midway between supports (Clause 1.1).

These ensure consistent and reliable sampling and testing of cable covers.

Sources: Clause 7.1, Clause 8.2.1, Clause 1.1

8Tests and Criteria of Conformity

Key specifications and test criteria for concrete cable covers per IS 5820 are as follows:

  • Sample Selection: For transverse strength test of unreinforced concrete covers, 15 samples are randomly selected from each consignment of 3000 covers or part thereof (Clause 7.2).

  • Test Procedure: Covers are soaked in water at 15–20°C for 24 hours before testing. Each cover is supported on two self-aligning steel bearers 50 mm diameter, spaced 270 mm apart. Load is applied centrally at a uniform rate of 9000 N/min ±10% through a third 50 mm diameter steel bearer midway between supports (Clause 1.1, Fig. 6).

  • Criteria of Conformity:

    • Average breaking load of first 6 covers must meet or exceed Table 1 values.
    • If not, test additional 9 covers.
    • Average of all 15 covers must meet or exceed Table 1 values to conform (Clause 8.3).
  • Apparatus: Impact testing apparatus and transverse test apparatus details are given in Figures 5 and 6.

This ensures consistent quality and strength of concrete cable covers as per IS 5820.

Sources: Clause 7.2, Clause 8.3, Clause 1.1, Fig. 5, Fig. 6

9Marking

As per IS 5820 Clause 9.1, the upper side of each concrete cable cover shall be marked longitudinally by an impression 4 mm deep with the words "ELECTRIC 4" as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Additional identification markings such as the utility name may also be impressed 4 mm deep if desired by the purchaser. Regarding BIS certification, Clause 9.2.1 states that the use of the Standard Mark is governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986, and manufacturers may obtain licensing details from BIS. The marking depth and style ensure clear identification and traceability of cable covers. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate typical marking layouts on flat and peaked cable covers respectively, with letters impressed 4 mm deep. This marking specification ensures durability and legibility of identification on the product surface.

Sources: Clause 9.1, Clause 9.2.1, Fig. 1, Fig. 2

Appendix AImpact Strength Test for Reinforced Concrete Cable Covers

As per IS 5820 Clause 8.2 and Appendix A, the Impact Strength Test for reinforced concrete cable covers involves subjecting samples to two blows from a tup dropped from a height of 460 mm vertically above the center of the cable cover. The test equipment is shown in Fig. 5 (not reproduced here). The key acceptance criterion is that not more than one transverse crack (across the full width) should appear after the two blows. Reinforcement details include mild steel rods of 5 mm and 3 mm diameter as per Fig. 4, with letters impressed 4 mm deep for identification. This test ensures the cable cover's resistance to impact loading. For unreinforced covers, transverse strength tests per Clause 8.3 and Table 1 apply. The test method and acceptance criteria are strictly defined to ensure durability and safety of cable covers under impact conditions.

Sources: Clause 8.2, Clause 8.1, Clause 8.3, Fig. 4, Table 1

Appendix BTransverse Strength Test for Unreinforced Concrete Cable Covers

As per Clause 8.3 of IS 5820, the transverse strength test for unreinforced concrete cable covers involves testing six samples for their breaking load using the equipment shown in Fig. 6 (Appendix B). The average breaking load of these six covers must meet or exceed the values specified in Table 1 to conform to the standard. If not, an additional nine samples are tested, and the average breaking load of all fifteen samples must meet the Table 1 limits. Failure to meet these limits means the consignment does not conform. This procedure ensures quality control of unreinforced concrete cable covers by verifying their transverse strength. Unfortunately, the exact values from Table 1 and Fig. 6 are not provided in the retrieved context.

Sources: Clause 8.3, Appendix B, Table 1

Popular Questions About IS 5820

?What are the specified dimensions and tolerances for different types of precast concrete cable covers?

As per IS 5820 Clause 4.1, the dimensions of reinforced and unreinforced precast concrete cable covers shall conform to those specified in Table 1 (not provided in the context). The tolerances on length and width are -3 mm, and on thickness are ±2 mm. Reinforced covers include specific reinforcement details such as 5 mm Ø and 3 mm Ø mild steel rods, especially for peaked types, which also apply to flat types. The choice between reinforced and unreinforced covers depends on the required protection level, with reinforced covers offering higher safety against shattering (Clause 3.1).

Sources: Clause 4.1, Clause 3.1

?Which materials and grades of cement and reinforcement are recommended by IS 5820?

As per IS 5820, the recommended materials are:

  • Cement: Shall conform to IS 269-1967, IS 455-1967, or IS 1489-1967 as stated in Clause 2.1.
  • Reinforcement Steel: Steel wire or rod shall conform to IS 432 (Part I)-1966, IS 432 (Part II)-1966, IS 1139-1966, IS 1566-1967, or IS 1786-1966 as per Clause 2.4. For reinforced precast concrete cable covers, mild steel reinforcement conforming to IS 432 (Part I)-1966 is specified in Clause 5.5, with allowance for higher tensile strength steel if agreed.

Thus, cement grades per IS 269, 455, or 1489 and reinforcement steel grades per IS 432 series or IS 1786 are recommended.

Sources: Clause 2.1, Clause 2.4, Clause 5.5

?How are impact strength and transverse strength tests conducted for cable covers?

Impact strength tests for reinforced concrete cable covers are conducted by subjecting samples to two blows from a tup dropped from a height of 460 mm onto the center of the cover's top surface, allowing not more than one transverse crack across the full width (Clause 8.2). For transverse strength tests on unreinforced concrete covers, six samples are tested to find the average breaking load. If this average meets or exceeds Table 1 values, the consignment passes; if not, nine more samples are tested and the average of all fifteen is checked against Table 1 to decide conformity (Clause 8.3). Sample sizes for impact tests are twelve per 2,000 covers or part thereof, plus twelve more per additional 12,000 covers (Clause 7.1).

Sources: Clause 8.2, Clause 8.3, Clause 7.1, Appendix A, Appendix B

?When should reinforced versus unreinforced concrete cable covers be used according to this standard?

According to IS 5820, reinforced concrete cable covers should be used when a higher degree of safety against shattering is required, typically in locations where the danger from mechanical impacts like pick-axing is significant or where primary protection is needed. Unreinforced concrete cable covers are recommended mainly for situations of secondary importance or where the risk from pick-axing and similar impacts is not significant, as per Clauses 3.1 and 2.1. Reinforced covers include mild steel reinforcement as specified in Clause 5.5 and are tested for impact strength (Clause 8.1), whereas unreinforced covers are tested for transverse strength. The choice depends on the user's protection requirements.

Sources: Clause 3.1, Clause 2.1, Clause 5.5, Clause 8.1

?What are the marking and certification requirements for precast concrete cable covers under IS 5820?

The retrieved context from IS 5820:1970 does not explicitly specify the marking and certification requirements for precast concrete cable covers. The standard primarily covers classification, usage, and manufacturing guidance for reinforced and unreinforced concrete cable covers (Clause 0.2). It emphasizes protection and warning functions but does not detail marking or certification protocols. Therefore, specific marking and certification requirements are not available in the provided text.

Sources: Clause 0.2, Clause 0.3, Clause 2.1

Need Detailed Clause Answers?

Ask AI about any clause, requirement, or provision in IS 5820. Get instant, clause-cited responses powered by our indexed library.

Free tier includes 150 queries (50 AI + 100 Reference) · No credit card required