AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2017

AS NZS 3008.1.1 2017 sets out a method for cable selection for those types of electrical cables and methods of installation that are in common use at working voltages up to and including 0.6/1 kV at 50 Hz a.c.

This Standard sets out a method for cable selection for those types of electrical cables and methods of installation that are in common use at working voltages up to and including 0.6/1 kV at 50 Hz a.c.NOTE: Although the Standard specifically applies to a.c. installations, it may also be applied to d.c. installations.Four criteria are given for cable selection, as follows:(a) Current carrying capacity.(b) Voltage drop.(c) Short-circuit temperature rise.(d) Economic optimization.This Standard provides sustained current-carrying capacities and voltage drop values for those types of electrical cable and installation practices in common use in Australia. A significant amount of explanatory material is also provided on the application of rating factors that arise from the particular installation conditions of a single circuit or groups of circuits. Also, provided in Section 5 is information on cable selection based on short-circuit temperature limits.NOTE: A number of worked examples on cable selection are included in Appendix A.This Standard does not take into account the effects that may occur owing to temperature rise at the terminals of equipment and reference is necessary to AS/NZS 3000 and the individual equipment Standards.NOTE: For ease of reference, an index of the Tables included in this Standard is provided in Appendix B.

AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2017 is an Australian and New Zealand Standard outlining the requirements for installing electrical cables in power distribution systems. It provides electrical engineers, contractors, and other professionals a framework for selecting the right cables based on a range of factors including current-carrying capacity, and voltage drop. AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2017 also details methods for installing these cables at working voltages up to 0.6/1 kV.

AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2017 is vital for anyone who needs to design and install electrical systems safely and effectively. 

Selecting and installing electrical cables are constant challenges for engineers and contractors. Purchasing the AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2017 compliance Standard will give you a full set of relevant guidelines for this process. It will guarantee the safety of workers and ensure systems are secure, efficient and compliant with strict industry regulations.

The AS/NZS 3008.1.1:2017 Standard also promotes:

• Better performance: The Standard helps you to select the right cables for the job; optimising performance and power distribution while minimising the loss of energy


• Improved safety: The Standard reduces the risk of electrical faults and fires, protecting everyone involved


• Longevity: The Standard details environmental factors (temperature, chemical exposure etc.) you should follow during installation. This helps the cables to perform and last longer over time.


• Optimised design: The Standard helps you to select the right cables based on their specifications, so you don’t opt for equipment that’s too big or small. This improves design and reduces unnecessary project costs.

Originated in Australia as AS 3008.1-1984.
Originated in New Zealand as AS/NZS 3008.1.1:1998.
Previous edition 2009.
This edition 2017.