Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
CSA C22.2 No. 153-14: Comprehensive Guide to Portable Power Cables in Canada
Understanding the Scope, Technical Requirements, and Compliance for Portable Power Cables Under the Canadian Electrical Code
CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 is the third edition of the Canadian standard for portable power cables published by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) under the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) Part II series. This standard specifies construction, performance, and testing requirements for single and multi-conductor flexible cables rated up to 2 kV used for portable or temporary power supply in industrial, commercial, mining, and similar applications. Compliance with CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 is mandatory for cables to be CSA certified for use in Canada, ensuring a high level of safety and reliability under demanding conditions.
Scope of CSA C22.2 No. 153-14
CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 applies to portable power cables intended for use in accordance with the Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1). The standard covers cables with voltage ratings from 300 V to 2000 V, with copper conductors, thermoset (rubber) or thermoplastic insulation, and a suitable outer jacket. Key applications include:
- Power supply to portable equipment in industrial plants and construction sites
- Mining machinery and shuttle cars (when used with proper trailing cable designs)
- Temporary power distribution for events, entertainment, and emergency services
- Portable lighting, generators, welders, and pumps
The standard does not apply to fixed wiring cables (e.g., NM-B, T90), armoured cables, or cables rated above 2 kV. It also excludes specialty cables such as those for submersible pumps or electric vehicle charging unless explicitly referenced.
Important: While CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 provides the construction and testing criteria, the selection and installation of portable power cables must also comply with applicable sections of the CE Code (C22.1), including requirements for ampacity, overcurrent protection, and use in hazardous locations.
Technical Requirements
Construction
Cables covered by CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 must be constructed with stranded copper conductors (Class B or I stranding per ASTM B8 or CSA) to provide flexibility. Insulation and jacket materials are classified as thermoset (e.g., EPR, CSP) or thermoplastic (e.g., PVC, TPE) depending on the cable type. The standard defines a variety of cable types differentiated by voltage rating, insulation type, jacket material, and intended service conditions. Common types include SOOW, SJOOW, STOW, Type W, Type G, and Type SHD, each with specific construction requirements.
Electrical and Mechanical Tests
All cables must undergo a suite of type tests to verify performance. Key requirements are summarized in the table below.
| Parameter | Requirement | Test Method Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage rating | 300 V, 600 V, 1 kV, 2 kV | Design specification |
| Dielectric strength | No breakdown during 5 min AC test at 2× rated voltage + 1 kV | CSA C22.2 No. 153 Cl. 6.2 |
| Insulation resistance | ≥ 100 MΩ·km at 20°C | CSA C22.2 No. 153 Cl. 6.3 |
| Flame propagation (vertical tray) | Passes CSA C22.2 No. 2556 / IEC 60332-3-22 | CSA C22.2 No. 153 Cl. 6.6.1 |
| Cold bend | No cracking at -25°C (thermoset) or -10°C (thermoplastic) | CSA C22.2 No. 153 Cl. 6.7 |
| Oil resistance | ≤ 30% increase in diameter after 18 h immersion at 70°C | CSA C22.2 No. 153 Cl. 6.8 |
| Abrasion resistance | No exposure of insulation after 200 cycles (sandpaper method) | CSA C22.2 No. 153 Cl. 6.9 |
Tip: Designers should note that cables with a temperature rating of 90°C (thermoset) are suitable for higher ampacity per CE Code Table 2 and 4. However, terminations must be rated for 75°C unless the entire circuit is rated 90°C.
Marking and Traceability
Each length of cable must be continuously marked at intervals not exceeding 600 mm with the following information:
- Manufacturer’s name or trademark
- CSA Mark (or certification mark)
- Type designation (e.g., SOOW 90°C 600 V)
- Conductor size (AWG or kcmil)
- Number of conductors (if more than one)
- Year of manufacture or date code
Implementation Highlights
When selecting a portable power cable for a specific application, engineers must consider the mechanical environment, chemical exposure, temperature range, and flexing requirements. CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 offers several cable types that differ in jacket toughness, oil resistance, and flame performance. For example:
- Type SOOW – 600 V, thermoset insulation, oil-resistant jacket, suitable for general industrial and commercial use.
- Type W – 2 kV, extra-heavy jacket, used in mining and heavy construction where mechanical abuse is severe.
- Type SHD – shielded power cable for mining equipment requiring protection against electrical interference and ground fault detection.
- Type G or G-GC – 2 kV mining cables with ground check conductor for continuous monitoring of grounding continuity.
Note: For applications in hazardous locations (e.g., Class I Division 2), cables must also meet the requirements of CSA C22.2 No. 122 or be otherwise evaluated for the specific gas or vapour group. CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 alone does not provide a hazardous location rating.
Compliance and Certification Notes
To be sold or used in Canada, portable power cables must be certified by a recognized certification body (e.g., CSA, UL, QAI) in accordance with CSA C22.2 No. 153-14. Certification typically involves:
- Initial type testing of representative cable constructions.
- Factory inspection and quality control review.
- Ongoing surveillance testing of production samples.
- Authorization to apply the certification mark on the cable jacket.
It is essential for installers and specifiers to verify that the cable carries a valid certification mark. Uncertified cables may not comply with CE Code requirements and could lead to enforcement actions, insurance issues, or safety hazards. Additionally, cables used in mines must comply with provincial regulations that may reference CSA C22.2 No. 153 and other standards such as CAN/CSA-M421 for use in underground coal mines.
Warning: Using a portable power cable beyond its rated voltage or in an environment that exceeds its temperature rating may cause insulation breakdown, fire, or electric shock. Always consult the manufacturer’s specifications and the CE Code for correct application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What voltage ratings are covered by CSA C22.2 No. 153-14?
A: The standard covers cables with voltage ratings of 300 V, 600 V, 1 kV, and 2 kV. Most common types (SOOW, SJOOW, STOW) are rated 600 V. Types W, G, and SHD are often rated 2 kV for mining and heavy industrial use.
A: The standard covers cables with voltage ratings of 300 V, 600 V, 1 kV, and 2 kV. Most common types (SOOW, SJOOW, STOW) are rated 600 V. Types W, G, and SHD are often rated 2 kV for mining and heavy industrial use.
Q: Can CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 cables be used outdoors in wet locations?
A: Yes, provided the cable is suitable for wet conditions. Cables with thermoset insulation (e.g., Type SOOW) have a “W” designation indicating moisture and oil resistance. The jacket must also be rated for sunlight (UV) exposure if used in direct sunlight without protection.
A: Yes, provided the cable is suitable for wet conditions. Cables with thermoset insulation (e.g., Type SOOW) have a “W” designation indicating moisture and oil resistance. The jacket must also be rated for sunlight (UV) exposure if used in direct sunlight without protection.
Q: How does CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 relate to the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code)?
A: CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 is a Part II standard referenced by the CE Code (C22.1) for portable power cables. Section 4 of the CE Code requires that all electrical equipment be approved, and for portable cables, approval is based on compliance with the applicable Part II standard. Table 11 of the CE Code also provides ampacity values for these cables when installed as permitted.
A: CSA C22.2 No. 153-14 is a Part II standard referenced by the CE Code (C22.1) for portable power cables. Section 4 of the CE Code requires that all electrical equipment be approved, and for portable cables, approval is based on compliance with the applicable Part II standard. Table 11 of the CE Code also provides ampacity values for these cables when installed as permitted.
Q: What is the difference between Type SOOW and Type SJOOW?
A: Type SOOW is rated 600 V and has a thicker insulation and jacket, providing greater mechanical strength and higher temperature rating (90°C). Type SJOOW is rated 300 V and has a lighter construction intended for lighter duty applications. Both are oil-resistant and suitable for portable use, but SOOW is more robust.
A: Type SOOW is rated 600 V and has a thicker insulation and jacket, providing greater mechanical strength and higher temperature rating (90°C). Type SJOOW is rated 300 V and has a lighter construction intended for lighter duty applications. Both are oil-resistant and suitable for portable use, but SOOW is more robust.
— Published 2026 —