Comprehensive Technical Guide to Japanese Industrial Standard Elevator Cables By Anhui Feichun Special Cable Co., Ltd. (安徽飞纯特种电缆有限公司)
JIS C 3408 Elevator Cable Classification and Symbols Code Designation
Comprehensive Technical Guide to Japanese Industrial Standard Elevator Cables
By Anhui Feichun Special Cable Co., Ltd. (安徽飞纯特种电缆有限公司)
Understanding JIS C 3408 Elevator Cable Standard
JIS C 3408 is a Japanese Industrial Standard that specifies requirements for travelling cables for elevators, establishing comprehensive guidelines for rubber insulated cables with rated voltages up to and including 450/750V. According to the Japanese Standards Association, this standard was most recently updated in 2014 to ensure compliance with modern safety and performance requirements[1].
Key Standard Highlights:
- Standard Designation: JIS C 3408:2014
- Application: Travelling cables for elevator systems
- Voltage Rating: Up to 450/750V (U₀/U)
- Regulatory Body: Japanese Industrial Standards Committee
- International Alignment: Harmonized with IEC 60245 series standards
The standard covers both flat cable types and round/braided cable types, each designated with specific symbol codes that indicate the insulation material, sheath material, construction type, and whether reinforcing wire is incorporated. The voltage rating of 450/750V indicates that cables can withstand 450V between conductor and ground (U₀) and 750V between phase conductors (U)[2].
Complete Cable Classification System
Flat Cable Types (F-Series)
Flat elevator cables are designed for space-constrained installations where the cable runs along narrow channels or raceways. The flat configuration provides excellent flexibility while maintaining structural integrity during continuous vertical movement.
| Cable Classification | Symbol Code |
|---|---|
| Natural rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed flat cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | ERNF-L |
| Natural rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed flat cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | ERNF-H |
| Natural rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed flat cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | ERVF-L |
| Natural rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed flat cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | ERVF-H |
| EP rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed flat cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EPNF-L |
| EP rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed flat cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EPNF-H |
| EP rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed flat cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EPVF-L |
| EP rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed flat cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EPVF-H |
| Polyvinyl chloride insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed flat cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EVVF-L |
| Polyvinyl chloride insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed flat cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EVVF-H |
Round / Braided Cable Types (B/N/V-Series)
Round and braided cables offer enhanced flexibility and are preferred for applications requiring frequent bending cycles and multi-directional movement. The braided construction provides additional mechanical protection and electromagnetic shielding capabilities.
| Cable Classification | Symbol Code |
|---|---|
| Natural rubber insulated braided cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | ERB-L |
| Natural rubber insulated braided cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | ERB-H |
| Natural rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed round cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | ERN-L |
| Natural rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed round cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | ERN-H |
| Natural rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed round cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | ERV-L |
| Natural rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed round cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | ERV-H |
| EP rubber insulated braided cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EPB-L |
| EP rubber insulated braided cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EPB-H |
| EP rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed round cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EPN-L |
| EP rubber insulated chloroprene sheathed round cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EPN-H |
| EP rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed round cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EPV-L |
| EP rubber insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed round cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EPV-H |
| Polyvinyl chloride insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed round cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EVV-L |
| Polyvinyl chloride insulated polyvinyl chloride sheathed round cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EVV-H |
| Polyvinyl chloride insulated braided cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire) | EVB-L |
| Polyvinyl chloride insulated braided cable for elevator (with reinforcing wire) | EVB-H |
Decoding the Symbol System
Symbol Component Meanings
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| E | Elevator (Indicates application-specific design) |
| R | Natural Rubber (Insulation material with superior flexibility) |
| P | EP Rubber (Ethylene-Propylene Rubber – enhanced durability) |
| V | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC – cost-effective option) |
| B | Braided (Textile braiding for mechanical protection) |
| N | Chloroprene Rubber (Neoprene – oil and weather resistant) |
| F | Flat Type (Space-saving configuration) |
| H | With Reinforcing Wire (High-rise applications) |
| L | Without Reinforcing Wire (Low to mid-rise applications) |
| O | With Optical Fiber (Suffix for integrated data transmission) |
Symbol Reading Examples
⚠️ Important Note on Optical Fiber Integration
For cables with optical fiber integration, the suffix “O” is added to the end of the symbol. For example: ERB-L-O indicates a Natural rubber insulated braided cable for elevator (without reinforcing wire, with optical fiber). This configuration enables simultaneous power transmission and high-speed data communication in modern smart elevator systems.
Purpose and Applications
JIS C 3408 elevator cables serve critical functions in vertical transportation systems, particularly in environments requiring robust, flexible power and control solutions. These cables are specifically engineered to withstand the unique mechanical stresses associated with elevator operations, including continuous vertical movement, frequent bending cycles, and constant acceleration and deceleration forces[3].
Primary Applications:
- Passenger Elevators: High-rise commercial and residential buildings requiring reliable power and control signal transmission
- Freight Elevators: Industrial facilities with heavy-duty lifting requirements and enhanced load-bearing capabilities
- Mining Elevators: Underground mining operations demanding superior abrasion resistance and environmental protection (specialized mining cable solutions)
- Dumbwaiters: Food service and small cargo transportation systems in hotels, hospitals, and restaurants
- Construction Hoists: Temporary vertical transportation during building construction phases
- Platform Lifts: Accessibility solutions for mobility-impaired individuals
Mining and Industrial Applications
In mining environments, elevator cables must withstand particularly harsh conditions. The rubber insulated and chloroprene sheathed constructions provide excellent resistance to oils, chemicals, and abrasion common in underground mining operations[4]. Mining equipment specialists emphasize the importance of selecting cables with appropriate mechanical strength and environmental protection ratings.
Special Considerations for Mining Applications:
- Enhanced abrasion resistance for contact with rough surfaces
- Superior oil and chemical resistance for industrial environments
- Flame retardant properties meeting mine safety regulations
- Low smoke emission characteristics for enclosed spaces
- UV resistance for surface and shaft operations
Technical Characteristics and Performance Features
Electrical Characteristics
450V conductor-to-ground, 750V conductor-to-conductor
Finely stranded annealed copper per GB/T 3956
Depends on insulation material selection
Routine production test per JIS C 3408
Mechanical Characteristics
Elevator cables must demonstrate exceptional flexibility and mechanical endurance to withstand millions of bending cycles throughout their operational lifetime[5]. The mechanical performance parameters include:
| Parameter | Specification | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Bending Radius | 4 × O.D. (Fixed) / 6 × O.D. (Moving) | Prevents insulation damage during installation and operation |
| Flex Life Expectancy | ≥ 2,000,000 cycles | Ensures long-term reliability in vertical transportation |
| Tensile Strength | 50-150 kg (varies by construction) | Critical for high-rise applications with reinforcing wire |
| Abrasion Resistance | ≥ 100 cycles (per IEC 60811) | Protects against wear in confined spaces |
| Crush Resistance | No conductor damage at 500N/cm | Maintains integrity under mechanical stress |
Environmental Protection
The choice of insulation and sheath materials directly impacts the cable’s environmental resistance capabilities:
- Natural Rubber (R): Excellent flexibility at low temperatures (-40°C to +65°C), superior electrical properties, good abrasion resistance
- EP Rubber (P): Enhanced heat resistance (up to 90°C), excellent aging characteristics, improved ozone resistance
- Chloroprene/Neoprene (N): Outstanding oil resistance, flame retardant properties, weather resistance, chemical stability
- PVC (V): Cost-effective, good moisture resistance, adequate mechanical protection, flame retardant
Material Structure and Construction
Layered Construction Architecture
JIS C 3408 elevator cables employ a sophisticated multi-layer construction designed to provide optimal electrical performance, mechanical protection, and operational longevity:
1. Conductor Core
Material: Stranded bare copper conductors (Class 5 or 6 flexibility per IEC 60228)
Configuration: Fine stranding with typical conductor sizes ranging from 0.75 mm² to 6.0 mm²
Purpose: Bare copper conductors provide 100% conductivity, ensuring efficient power transmission while maintaining flexibility for continuous movement[6]
2. Insulation Layer
Materials: Natural rubber (R), EP rubber (P), or PVC (V)
Thickness: 0.6-1.0 mm depending on conductor size and voltage rating
Color Coding: Standardized per JIS C 3408 for easy identification (typically red, white, blue, yellow, green, black)
Function: Provides electrical isolation between conductors and protects against voltage breakdown
3. Assembly and Cabling
Configuration: Insulated conductors twisted together with appropriate lay length
Filler Material: Extruded rubber or textile fillers maintain circular cross-section
Separation Layer: Textile tape or mylar film separates core from sheath in some constructions
Purpose: Maintains cable geometry and prevents conductor migration during flexing
4. Reinforcing Elements (H-Type Only)
Material: Steel wire strands or aramid fiber reinforcement
Configuration: Central or parallel reinforcement depending on design
Strength Rating: 50-150 kg tensile strength for high-rise applications
Function: Supports cable weight in tall buildings and prevents elongation during operation
5. Outer Sheath
Materials: Chloroprene rubber (N) or PVC (V)
Thickness: 1.5-2.5 mm for comprehensive mechanical protection
Properties: Abrasion resistance, oil resistance, flame retardancy, UV stability
Function: Primary defense against environmental hazards and mechanical damage
Braided vs. Sheathed Construction
| Feature | Braided Type (B) | Sheathed Type (N/V) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Protection | Textile braiding provides moderate protection | Solid rubber/PVC sheath offers superior protection |
| Flexibility | Excellent flexibility for tight bends | Good flexibility with enhanced durability |
| Environmental Resistance | Limited oil and moisture resistance | Excellent resistance to oils, chemicals, moisture |
| Application | Dry, indoor environments | Industrial, outdoor, harsh environments |
| Cost | Lower initial cost | Higher cost justified by longevity |
Standards Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Primary Standards
JIS C 3408 elevator cables must comply with multiple national and international standards to ensure safety, compatibility, and performance:
| Standard | Scope | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| JIS C 3408:2014 | Travelling cables for elevators | Construction, performance, testing methods, marking requirements |
| IEC 60245 | Rubber insulated cables (450/750V) | International harmonization for voltage ratings and test procedures |
| IEC 60228 | Conductor specifications | Conductor classes, dimensions, and resistance values |
| IEC 60332-1 | Flame retardancy testing | Single cable vertical flame propagation test |
| GB/T 5023 | Chinese national standard (equivalent) | PVC insulated cables up to 450/750V |
Elevator-Specific Safety Standards
Beyond cable construction standards, elevator installations must comply with comprehensive safety codes:
- ASME A17.1/CSA B44: Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators (North America)
- EN 81-1/81-2: European elevator safety standards for electric and hydraulic elevators
- ISO 4190: Passenger lifts installation and performance requirements
- National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 620: Electrical equipment for elevators, dumbwaiters, escalators
⚠️ Compliance Verification
All JIS C 3408 cables supplied by Anhui Feichun Special Cable Co., Ltd. undergo rigorous testing and certification procedures. Each production batch includes comprehensive type testing reports and certificates of conformity. For mining applications, additional certifications may be required including flame retardancy ratings and toxic fume emission testing.
Safety Thresholds and Operating Parameters
Voltage and Current Ratings
U₀ represents conductor-to-ground voltage (450V), while U represents conductor-to-conductor voltage (750V) in three-phase systems[7]
0.75mm²: 6A | 1.5mm²: 16A | 2.5mm²: 25A | 4.0mm²: 32A
Critical for maintaining elevator control system performance
Minimum acceptable insulation resistance between conductors and ground
Temperature Ratings
| Operating Condition | Temperature Range | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Operating Temperature (Natural Rubber) | -40°C to +65°C | Continuous |
| Normal Operating Temperature (EP Rubber) | -25°C to +90°C | Continuous |
| Normal Operating Temperature (PVC) | -15°C to +70°C | Continuous |
| Short Circuit Temperature | +160°C (PVC) / +200°C (Rubber) | Maximum 5 seconds |
| Installation Temperature (Minimum) | 0°C (all types) | N/A |
Mechanical Safety Limits
- Maximum Travel Speed: 6-10 m/s depending on cable construction and reinforcement
- Maximum Travel Distance: Up to 500m for H-type (with reinforcing wire), 100m for L-type
- Acceleration Limit: 3.5 m/s² maximum to prevent excessive mechanical stress
- Safety Factor: Minimum 12:1 for breaking strength vs. working load
- Minimum Loop Length: 8-10 times the cable outer diameter for proper strain relief
Fire Safety Parameters
Fire safety is paramount in elevator installations, particularly in high-rise buildings and enclosed spaces:
| Fire Safety Metric | Requirement | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Flame Retardancy | Self-extinguishing within 60 seconds | IEC 60332-1 |
| Flame Propagation | Maximum 540mm burn length | IEC 60332-3-24 |
| Smoke Density | Light transmittance ≥ 60% | IEC 61034-2 |
| Acid Gas Emission | pH ≥ 4.3, Conductivity ≤ 10 μS/mm | IEC 60754-1/2 |
| Halogen Content (if specified) | < 0.5% total halogens for LSZH variants | IEC 60754-1 |
Precautions for Use and Installation
Pre-Installation Inspection
⚠️ Critical Pre-Installation Checks
- Visual Inspection: Examine cable for any damage, cuts, abrasions, or deformation during transportation
- Dimension Verification: Confirm cable outer diameter, length, and conductor count match specifications
- Marking Validation: Verify symbol code, voltage rating, and manufacturer identification on cable jacket
- Electrical Testing: Conduct insulation resistance and continuity tests before installation
- Storage Conditions: Ensure cable has been stored properly (10-35°C, 45-75% RH, away from direct sunlight)
Installation Best Practices
1. Cable Routing and Support
- Maintain Minimum Bend Radius: Never exceed 6× cable outer diameter for moving applications
- Avoid Sharp Edges: Use protective grommets or rounded entry points to prevent sheath damage
- Proper Loop Formation: Create appropriate service loops to accommodate car travel distance
- Support Spacing: Install cable supports every 2-3 meters along vertical runs
- Strain Relief: Implement proper cable termination with strain relief devices at both ends
2. Environmental Considerations
- Temperature During Installation: Install only when ambient temperature is above 0°C
- UV Protection: Shield cables from direct sunlight if exposed to outdoor conditions
- Chemical Exposure: Avoid contact with incompatible chemicals (strong acids, solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons)
- Moisture Management: Ensure proper sealing of cable entry points to prevent water ingress
- Ventilation: Provide adequate ventilation in enclosed raceways for heat dissipation
3. Electrical Installation Precautions
- Color Code Adherence: Strictly follow conductor color coding for proper phase identification
- Grounding Requirements: Connect ground conductors per local electrical codes (typically green/yellow)
- Terminal Torque: Apply manufacturer-specified torque values to all connections
- Phase Rotation: Verify correct phase sequence before energizing motor circuits
- Voltage Testing: Confirm absence of voltage before handling or terminating cables
High-Rise Installation Special Requirements
For buildings exceeding 100 meters in height (H-type cables with reinforcing wire):
- Weight Distribution: Calculate total suspended cable weight and verify against tensile strength rating
- Intermediate Supports: Install cable clamps or support devices every 50-75 meters of vertical travel
- Elongation Compensation: Account for cable stretch under load (typically 0.1-0.2% of total length)
- Vibration Damping: Install vibration dampers if cable resonance is anticipated
- Regular Inspection Schedule: Implement quarterly inspection program for high-rise installations
Mining and Industrial Environment Precautions
Industrial crane and hoist cable specialists recommend additional precautions for harsh environments:
- Abrasion Protection: Install protective conduits or raceways in areas with potential mechanical contact
- Chemical Compatibility: Verify sheath material compatibility with site-specific chemicals and oils
- Explosion-Proof Requirements: Ensure compliance with ATEX or IECEx standards for hazardous areas
- Dust and Particulate: Implement sealing measures to prevent dust infiltration in mining applications
- Corrosion Prevention: Apply protective coatings to metallic components in corrosive atmospheres
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
1. Insulation Breakdown and Electrical Failures
Symptoms:
- Intermittent elevator operation or control system malfunctions
- Ground fault indicators triggering repeatedly
- Reduced insulation resistance measurements (< 0.01 MΩ·km)
Root Causes:
- Excessive bending beyond minimum radius specifications
- Moisture ingress at cable termination points
- Prolonged exposure to temperatures exceeding rated limits
- Chemical contamination degrading insulation material
Solutions:
- Immediate: De-energize affected circuits and isolate fault location using insulation resistance testing
- Short-term: Replace damaged cable section if localized, or install temporary emergency cable
- Long-term: Implement preventive maintenance program including quarterly insulation resistance monitoring
- Prevention: Ensure proper cable routing with adequate bend radius and environmental sealing
2. Mechanical Wear and Conductor Damage
Symptoms:
- Visible outer sheath abrasion or cracking
- Intermittent circuit continuity or open conductors
- Increased electrical resistance in specific conductors
- Cable stiffness or difficulty in movement
Root Causes:
- Rubbing against sharp edges or abrasive surfaces
- Exceeding design flex life through excessive cycles
- Improper installation with insufficient service loop
- Using L-type (without reinforcing wire) in high-rise applications
Solutions:
- Assessment: Conduct thorough visual and tactile inspection of entire cable length
- Repair: Minor sheath damage can be repaired using approved elastomeric tape and heat shrink
- Replacement: Conductor damage requires complete cable replacement – partial repairs are not acceptable
- Prevention: Install cable guides and grommets at all potential contact points
3. Elongation and Stretching (High-Rise Installations)
Symptoms:
- Excessive slack in cable at lower floors or tension at upper floors
- Uneven loop formation in cable raceways
- Stress concentration at termination points
Root Causes:
- Cable self-weight exceeding reinforcing wire capacity
- Temperature-induced dimensional changes
- Improper initial installation tension adjustment
Solutions:
- Immediate: Readjust cable length and retension at support points
- Retrofit: Install additional intermediate support clamps
- Replacement: For severe elongation, replace with properly rated H-type cable
- Prevention: Always use cables with adequate tensile strength rating for building height
4. Environmental Degradation
| Degradation Type | Indicators | Corrective Actions |
|---|---|---|
| UV Degradation | Surface cracking, discoloration, brittleness | Install UV-protective conduit or replace with UV-stabilized variant |
| Oil/Chemical Attack | Sheath swelling, softening, delamination | Verify chemical compatibility and replace with chloroprene sheathed cable |
| Moisture Ingress | Reduced insulation resistance, corrosion of conductors | Improve sealing at terminations, consider cables with enhanced water barriers |
| Ozone Cracking | Fine cracks perpendicular to stress direction | Replace with EP rubber insulated cables with superior ozone resistance |
5. Installation Errors
- Incorrect Termination: Use only approved compression or mechanical lugs; never twist-on wire nuts for elevator cables
- Phase Reversal: Verify phase sequence with rotation tester before energizing motor circuits
- Inadequate Grounding: Ensure ground conductor continuity and proper bonding at all junction points
- Mixing Cable Types: Never mix different cable types or manufacturers in a single installation
- Over-tightening Terminal Screws: Follow torque specifications to prevent conductor damage
⚠️ When to Replace vs. Repair
Replace immediately if:
- Any conductor is damaged or exhibits reduced cross-sectional area
- Insulation is compromised exposing bare conductors
- Cable has been subjected to short-circuit or overload conditions
- Mechanical damage affects more than 25% of cable circumference
- Cable age exceeds 15-20 years in high-cycle applications
Repair may be acceptable if:
- Minor superficial sheath abrasion with intact conductors
- Isolated damage point can be repaired using approved materials
- Repair location is accessible for ongoing monitoring
- Repair is documented and approved by qualified electrician
Maintenance Recommendations and Lifecycle Management
Preventive Maintenance Schedule
| Frequency | Inspection Tasks | Documentation Required |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Visual inspection of cable condition, check for abrasion or damage, verify proper loop formation | Inspection checklist with photographic evidence |
| Quarterly | Insulation resistance testing, conductor continuity verification, termination torque check | Electrical test reports with megohmmeter readings |
| Semi-Annual | Comprehensive cable examination, bend radius verification, support system inspection | Detailed maintenance log with findings and corrective actions |
| Annual | Complete system audit including electrical testing, mechanical measurements, safety compliance review | Annual certification report by licensed elevator inspector |
Performance Monitoring Metrics
- Insulation Resistance Trending: Track quarterly measurements; investigate any degradation exceeding 50% annually
- Flex Cycle Counting: Estimate total bending cycles based on elevator usage patterns
- Visual Condition Scoring: Implement 1-5 rating scale for cable condition assessment
- Thermographic Analysis: Use infrared imaging to detect hot spots indicating connection issues
Expected Service Life
Typical service life with proper maintenance
Higher flex cycles reduce lifespan
Mechanical stress and weight considerations
Harsh environmental conditions accelerate aging
Industry Resources and Partner Solutions
For specialized cable solutions and expert consultation:
Contact Anhui Feichun Special Cable Co., Ltd.
安徽飞纯特种电缆有限公司 – Your Trusted Partner for JIS C 3408 Elevator Cables
Technical Support:
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We provide comprehensive technical consultation, custom cable solutions, and worldwide shipping for all JIS C 3408 compliant elevator cables. Contact us for detailed specifications, certifications, and bulk quotations.
References and Citations
- Japanese Standards Association (JSA). “JIS C 3408:2014 – Travelling cables for elevators.” Published January 2014. https://webstore.ansi.org/standards/jis/jis34082014
- International Electrotechnical Commission. “IEC 60245 Series – Rubber insulated cables – Rated voltages up to and including 450/750V.” Technical specification for voltage ratings and insulation requirements.
- CED Elevator & Electrical. “Elevator Traveling Cable Guide – Choosing the Right Cable.” 2025. Available at: https://www.cedelevator.com
- Eland Cables. “Type 260 Flexible Rubber Mining Cable – Technical Specifications.” International mining cable standards documentation. https://www.elandcables.com
- TOT Cables. “Rubberised Cable: The Complete Guide to Rubber Sheathed Electrical Cables.” May 2025. Comprehensive analysis of rubber cable mechanical properties. https://totcables.com
- Accio Technical Specifications. “Elevator Cable: Types, Materials & Safety Tips.” Industry compliance and conductor requirements. https://www.accio.com
- Eng-Tips Engineering Forums. “Understanding Cable Voltage Ratings – U₀/U Explained.” Technical discussion on voltage rating interpretation. August 2003.
This technical guide is provided for informational purposes by Anhui Feichun Special Cable Co., Ltd. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, specifications may vary by application and jurisdiction. Always consult with qualified electrical engineers and follow local electrical codes for specific installations.
