At what voltage level are medium- and high-voltage cables generally required to be shielded?

Medium- and high-voltage cables are typically required to be shielded at voltage levels starting from around 2,000 V. The purpose of shielding is to protect against electromagnetic interference and to ensure safety by preventing electric fields from extending into surrounding environments. Shielding helps to contain the electrical energy within the cable, reducing the risk of accidental contact with live conductors and minimizing the impact of the cables on nearby electronic equipment.

At voltage levels below this threshold, the insulation alone usually suffices to manage the electrical characteristics and associated safety concerns. Therefore, the requirement for shielding becomes more critical as the voltage increases, particularly at and above the 2,000 V mark. This standard ensures that the cables can safely operate under the specific electrical conditions encountered in medium- and high-voltage applications.