The use of Pyro (copper sheathed PVC coated) cables.

[davidk65]

In an existing installation in a small boat yard, pyro cabling was used to feed light poles for external lighting. A feed from the distribution board went to the first pole and then, jointed out within the connection box, to supply the 2nd light pole. Both poles being connected in parallel.
The underground feed to the first pole as failed, but the cable to the 2nd pole is OK.
Q1: Is it a breech of IEE regulations to use pyro in a boat yard (marine type installation)? I am advised that this is the case.
Q2: Taking into account the environment, In order to restore a feed to the lights, and to avoid digging a trench for the cable, can the supply be taken by means of a catenary wire to the light pole?

[The Builder]

David, the 17th Edition IEE Regs are as clear as fog on some situations. I'm only a "Domestic Installer", but I was just wondering why a boatyard should be treated as a "marine" location rather than as per other "special locations" ......... caravan parks, swimming pools etc?
I'm no help I'm afraid. I just wanted to tell you to keep looking back here. There are several "proper" electricians who use this site. Hopefully one will be along soon.

[heathfield]

Pyrotenax is used extensively in hazardous environments, such as petrochemical plants, and in mines. If it's good enough for them, it ought to be good enough for a boatyard. Alas, you never know how the minds of regulators work..

[davidk65]

HI. Thanks both for your comments.
What puzzles me about the original comments, from a qualified electrician I consulted, even if pyro was not allowed in this kind of environment, I can't see how it could be applied to an existing installation retrospectively.
In a new installation I could see it, a bit like building regs, making changes to a building is not the same as a new build. If this was a completely new installation I could see that being applied and one perhaps one would go for SWA cables and not pyro.
The existing cable test out OK, it's buried in concrete but is PVC covered for the whole of its length. The failed cable, I have now found was damaged as it left the ground above the surface.

I will take your advice and wait to see if there are other posting on this.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Confirm the damaged feed and replace with swa as per the 17 th. We use MICC in hazardous environments and a general boat yard would not enter this category.
Its my guess that your sparks either cant or wont terminate MICC!!
A catenary can be used ..but again make sure the fixing method and heights comply with the 17th.