How to choose the right cable for your next project

Understanding cable standards: VDE and NEN

In Europe, cable standards are essential benchmarks for safety and performance. VDE standards (Verband der Elektrotechnik) are a must-follow in Germany, ensuring that cables meet strict electrical and mechanical requirements. Over in the Netherlands, NEN standards are equally critical, reflecting local regulations and environmental conditions.
By adhering to these standards, you protect your project from failure while ensuring compliance with local regulations—a win-win!

Important factors when selecting a cable

Application requirements

The standard specifies the basics. The question then is whether a belt is enough or whether suspenders and a belt are better if you are not comfortable with the installation criteria. The standard has variants from standard cables to cables with extended capabilities. If you take a standard medium-voltage cable NA2XS2Y and the right cross-section, the electricity will flow. But if the ground is full of stones and also damp, perhaps an NA2XS(FL)2Y with a thicker outer sheath is the better option. And for low-voltage cables, consider whether an NA2XY might be the better choice after all, so as not to keep using thicker cross-sections. Cost considerations include the entire project chain.

• Most errors occur during installation

The cable is thoroughly tested when it comes out of production. There are rarely major errors, as the process is monitored in detail. And then the danger looms! According to statistics from energy suppliers, most errors occur during installation and when connecting the cables. This is not always immediately apparent. It can take years for sheath damage to lead to a breakdown. If you want good cables, you should not skimp on installation.

Environmental factors

Outdoor, underground or harsh industrial environments require cables that can withstand extreme temperatures, UV radiation or moisture. For these conditions, you must think carefully about what the best option is. And even depending on the manufacturer, you know the differences in quality, even if they all meet a standard.

Conformity and testing

Make sure that the cable meets the VDE or NEN standards, depending on where your project is taking place. Manufacturers who have achieved this standard have proven, in tests that sometimes last for years, that they understand the cable manufacturing process in detail. We have partners who have been tested even further to meet the highest requirements.

The risks of making the wrong choice or misjudging the environmental parameters

Using a poor quality or wrongly chosen cable is not just a small mistake – it can lead to the following problems:

• Increased failures: Incorrect or poorly installed cables wear out faster and require costly repairs or replacement
• Safety risks: Overheating or electrical faults can cause dangerous fires or electric shocks.
• Legal non-compliance: Failure to comply with standards such as VDE or NEN can get your project into legal trouble, which can lead to heavy fines or shutdowns.

Why buy from us?

At KLZ we offer more than just cables – we offer you peace of mind. Our range includes NA2XS(F)2Y, NAYY and NAYY-J cables, all of which have been tested to meet the strict VDE and NEN standards (as far as Dutch cables are concerned). With our manufacturers and logistic partners, we ensure fast delivery throughout Germany and the Netherlands, so your project stays on time. We also place great value on sustainability. Our drum return service is free of charge and our manufacturers use recycled materials where it does not affect cable quality or the standard specifications. With global partners such as Elsewedy, we have qualified with the most well-known energy suppliers who place the highest expectation on us.