PV cables operate outdoors for decades. Conventional thermoplastic polyethylene is prone to thermal deformation, environmental stress cracking, and aging.
For this reason, the industry widely uses cross-linked polyolefin (XLPO) for PV cable insulation and PV cable jackets.
The three-dimensional cross-linked structure significantly improves:
-
Heat resistance
-
Abrasion resistance
-
Environmental stress crack resistance
-
Thermal oxidation resistance
-
Electrical insulation performance
-
Service life
Today, two mature XLPO technologies are widely used in the global PV cable industry.
Electron Beam Cross-Linked Polyolefin
Electron beam cross-linked polyolefin uses electron beam irradiation to complete the cross-linking process without chemical cross-linking by-products.
Its key advantages include:
-
Uniform cross-linking
-
Excellent dimensional stability
-
Outstanding high-temperature resistance
Because of its stable performance and suitability for mass production, this technology is widely used in high-end PV cable materials for European and international markets.
Silane Cross-Linked Polyolefin
Silane cross-linked polyolefin uses silane grafting followed by moisture curing to complete the cross-linking process.
Compared with irradiation technology, it requires lower equipment investment and is well suited for continuous production.
With continuous improvements in formulation technology, silane cross-linked polyolefin has achieved significant progress in thermal aging resistance, mechanical properties, and long-term reliability. It is now widely used in many PV cable applications.
Both electron beam cross-linked polyolefin and silane cross-linked polyolefin are proven technologies. As long as the final cable complies with EN 50618, IEC 62930, and TÜV certification requirements, it can provide safe, reliable, and long-term performance in photovoltaic systems.
Why Is TÜV Certification Important for PV Cables?
For products exported to Europe and other high-end international markets, TÜV certification has become an important proof of product quality.
TÜV certification bodies perform type testing on PV cables or PV cable materials according to standards such as EN 50618 and IEC 62930. They also audit the manufacturer's quality management system and production consistency.
Obtaining TÜV certification demonstrates that the product complies with international standards and can be manufactured consistently in large quantities. Therefore, it is often a mandatory requirement for overseas photovoltaic projects.
How to Choose Between EN 50618 and IEC 62930
For the European market, PV cables that comply with EN 50618 and have TÜV certification are generally recommended.
For international markets such as Asia, the Middle East, South America, and Africa, IEC 62930 is more widely recognized.
Today, the industry trend is to develop products that comply with both EN 50618 and IEC 62930. This allows manufacturers to supply a single product to multiple global markets.
Recommended Products
To meet different customer requirements, Angreen offers several PV cable material solutions.
Electron Beam Cross-Linked Polyolefin PV Cable Materials
Designed for high-end export PV cables, these materials provide excellent thermal aging resistance, UV resistance, and long-term electrical insulation performance.
They comply with EN 50618, IEC 62930, and are available with TÜV certification.
Product Series
-
90°C waterproof XLPO material for PV cables compliant with EN 50618, IEC 62930, and 2PfG 2750
-
125°C XLPO material for PV cables compliant with EN 50618, IEC 62930, and 2PfG 1169
-
105°C XLPO material for PV cables compliant with UL 4703
Silane Cross-Linked Polyolefin PV Cable Materials
These materials are ideal for continuous production processes. They offer an excellent balance between performance and manufacturing cost while meeting the requirements of major PV cable standards.
They comply with EN 50618, IEC 62930, and are available with TÜV certification.
Product Series
- 125°C XLPO material for PV cables compliant with EN 50618, IEC 62930, and 2PfG 1169