PV1-F vs H1Z2Z2-K: which solar cable standard applies?

Two names, one job

PV1-F is the older German cable designation used for single-core PV cable. H1Z2Z2-K is the harmonised European type defined in EN 50618. Both are used on the DC side of a PV plant: module jumpers, string runs and the DC feeder to the inverter.

Because the names come from different systems, a cable can be described as PV1-F on one datasheet and H1Z2Z2-K on another. The purchase order should therefore name the standard, not only the trade name. The single-core construction we supply under both designations is described on the PV1-F solar DC cable page.

What the standards actually require

IEC 62930 is the international standard for PV cable rated up to 1.5 kV DC. EN 50618 is the European standard that defines the H1Z2Z2-K type. Both call for a tinned copper conductor, cross-linked insulation, a cross-linked sheath and a long-term conductor temperature of at least 90 °C with a 120 °C maximum.

The test programmes differ in detail, particularly in the damp heat and dynamic penetration tests, but the practical outcome is similar: a cable that keeps its insulation resistance after years of UV, heat and humidity.

Where the two part company

• Marking and acceptance. A European tender will normally ask for H1Z2Z2-K to EN 50618, because the designation is recognised in the harmonised cable system.
• Sheath compound. The cross-linked sheath is the part that decides UV life. Ask for the compound type, not just the standard number.
• Voltage. Both types are 1.5 kV DC as standard. If the plant uses a 2000 V architecture, the rating has to be stated explicitly.

What to put on the purchase order

State the standard (IEC 62930 or EN 50618), the voltage rating, the conductor class, the cross-section and the sheath colour. Ask for the routine test record and, for a large order, a sample from the production batch.

If the project is in North America, UL 4703 applies instead and the construction has to be listed accordingly. Do not assume a European PV cable will satisfy an UL inspector.

A practical rule

For a European or IEC project, specify H1Z2Z2-K to EN 50618 and accept PV1-F to IEC 62930 as an equivalent only where the tender allows it. For a project with no stated standard, specify both the rating and the standard you want, and check the datasheet against the actual construction. Harness, feeder and collector constructions for the rest of the DC side are listed in the solar PV cable range.