This Part of BS 638 specifies requirements for single core flexible cables carrying the welding current in arc welding circuits.
Section 2 specifies requirements for arc welding cables rated for connection between the industrial arc welding power source and the electrode holder and the workpiece in manual metal-arc welding. These cables are rated at 100 V a.c. r.m.s. and 150 V d.c. This section implements HD 22.6 S2 : 1995 and also includes CENELEC recognized national types.
Section 3 specifies requirements for additional arc welding cables widely used in the United Kingdom. These cables are rated at 100 V a.c. r.m.s. and 150 V d.c. but undergo a higher voltage test and are therefore capable of being used at voltages up to but not exceeding 450 V a.c. r.m.s. or 675 V d.c., provided they are suitably enclosed to protect the covering from damage.
Annex A gives guidance on the selection of the size and type of cables covered by this standard. This annex implements Amendment No. 3: 1993 to HD 516.S1.
NOTE 1. Recommendations for the protection of personnel from welding hazards and safety precautions concerning arc welding power sources are given in BS 638 : Part 7 and BS 638: Part 10, to which reference should be made.
NOTE 2. In section 2 and annex A the wording of the harmonized documents has been amended in order to clarify the meaning.
BS 638-4:1996 history
2011BS EN 50525-1:2011 Electric cables. Low voltage energy cables of rated voltages up to and including 450/750 V (U0/U). General requirements
1996BS 638-4:1996 Arc welding power sources, equipment and accessories - Specification for welding cables
1979BS 638 Pt.1:1979 Arc welding power sources, equipment and accessories. Specification for oil cooled power sources for manual, semi-automatic and automatic metal-arc welding and for TIG welding