CSA C2.2-06 (2017) Standard for Thermoplastic-Insulated Wires and Cables: Technical Overview

CSA C2.2-06 (R2017) is the Canadian standard for thermoplastic-insulated wires and cables rated up to 600 V. Originally published in 2006 and reaffirmed in 2017, this standard defines the construction, material, performance, and testing requirements for single-conductor and multi-conductor cables used in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring systems. It is a key reference for manufacturers, electrical engineers, and regulatory authorities ensuring that these products meet the safety and reliability expectations of the Canadian electrical infrastructure.

Scope of CSA C2.2-06 (2017)

The standard applies to thermoplastic-insulated wires and cables intended for general-purpose power and control circuits in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code). It covers bare and coated conductors from 18 AWG up to 4/0 AWG (and larger for specialised constructions), with temperature ratings of 60 °C, 75 °C, and 90 °C for dry, damp, and wet locations. The standard explicitly includes:

• Single-conductor building wires (T90, TW, THW, etc.)
• Multi-conductor cables (non-armoured and armoured designs)
• Specialty cables for industrial control and motor connections

It does not cover cables with thermoset insulations (e.g., rubber or cross-linked polyethylene), mineral-insulated cables, or cables for extra high voltage. Those are addressed by other standards such as CSA C2.1 and CSA C22.2 No. 0.2.

Technical Requirements

Insulation Materials and Temperature Ratings

The core of CSA C2.2-06 (2017) is its classification of thermoplastic insulation compounds. The most common material is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), formulated with plasticisers and stabilisers to achieve the required thermal and physical performance. The standard defines several insulation grades corresponding to maximum operating temperatures:

Conductors and Sizes

Conductors can be copper, aluminium, or aluminium alloys. The standard lists preferred metric and AWG sizes, and specifies stranding options (solid, compressed, compact, or flexible). Minimum insulation thickness is provided for each conductor size and temperature class, ensuring consistent breakdown strength over the service life. For example, a 14 AWG T90 wire requires a nominal insulation thickness of 0.030 in. (0.76 mm) for copper, with a minimum measured value not less than 90% of the specified thickness.

Testing Requirements

CSA C2.2-06 (2017) mandates a thorough set of tests to confirm that the insulation meets the required physical, electrical, and ageing properties:

• Dielectric Voltage Withstand – a 3 kV (AC) hipot test on finished wire.
• Insulation Resistance – measured after immersion in water.
• Tensile and Elongation – before and after accelerated ageing (e.g., 7 days at 121 °C for 90 °C compounds).
• Cold Bend – tested at a prescribed temperature (typically -25 °C for T90).
• Flame Test – must pass the VW-1 (Vertical Wire) test as defined in UL 1581 or the CSA equivalent.

Implementation Highlights

When designing or installing wiring systems that reference CSA C2.2-06 (2017), several practical points deserve attention:

• Ampacity Correlation – Conductors covered by this standard have ampacity values published in Table 1 to Table 4 of the CE Code (based on temperature rating and installation method). Always use the correct column.
• Conductor Marking – Each cable must be marked along its length with the type designation, conductor size, temperature rating, and the certification logo. This facilitates identification during installation and maintenance.
• Termination Compatibility – Terminals and connectors must match the conductor material and temperature rating. For 90 °C cables terminated in equipment rated for 60 °C or 75 °C, the ampacity must be limited to the lower rating unless the assembly is otherwise rated.
• Environmental Considerations – For outdoor or wet location runs, verify the cable’s moisture resistance rating. Some thermoplastic cables are also suitable for direct burial when covered by a supplementary standard (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 0.4).

Compliance Notes

Compliance with CSA C2.2-06 (2017) is typically demonstrated through third-party certification by an accredited organisation such as CSA Group, UL (Canada), or Intertek. The standard is harmonised with the requirements of the provincial electrical safety regulators under the Canadian Electrical Code (safety standards list).

Key compliance checkpoints for manufacturers:

• Material approval – all insulation and jacket compounds must have a certified formulation.
• Factory inspection and quality assurance – ongoing verification that production remains within the approved parameters.
• Periodic re-testing – at least once per year to confirm continuing compliance.

For installers and specifiers, the most practical compliance step is to specify that thermoplastic-insulated cables be certified to CSA C2.2-06 (2017) and marked accordingly. On-site verification includes checking that the product marking matches the purchase documentation and that the insulation type is appropriate for the location (dry, damp, or wet).

This article provides a general overview of CSA C2.2-06 (2017). For full legal and technical requirements, always refer to the official standard published by the Canadian Standards Association.

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