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Home / Blog >Argentine Cable Standards IRAM: 7 Most Overlooked Details in the South American Market

Argentine Cable Standards IRAM: 7 Most Overlooked Details in the South American Market

Time: 2025-12-02 07:13:50 Source: Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd.

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Argentina's electrical market, a gateway to South America's $100B+ sector, demands meticulous compliance with IRAM standards to avoid customs delays or recalls. The Argentine Institute for Standardization and Certification (IRAM) sets the rules for low-voltage cables, harmonized with IEC but with local nuances often overlooked by exporters. Updated through resolutions like 16/2025 (effective October 2025), IRAM emphasizes safety for 220V/50Hz systems. This guide spotlights seven easily missed details, plus essentials for seamless entry into Argentina's dynamic economy.

1. The Core Standard: IRAM Overview for Low-Voltage Cables

IRAM governs cables up to 1000V AC/1500V DC via standards like IRAM 2183 (PVC-insulated) and IRAM 2199 (installation cables), aligning with IEC 60227/60502. Mandatory S-Mark certification (Resolution 169/2018) requires IRAM or IEC compliance for plugs, cords, and cables. Exporters must navigate voluntary (factory audits) vs. mandatory (type approval) paths. 2025 updates mandate QR codes on packaging for traceability, boosting import efficiency.

2. 7 Overlooked Details in IRAM Standards

Entering the South American market via Argentina? These seven details trip up even seasoned exporters:

Detail Description Why It Matters
1. Reversed Pin Polarity IRAM 2073 plugs reverse line/neutral vs. Australian Type I (pins 1mm longer, no safety shutters). Mismatched polarity causes failures; affects 70% of Type I exports.
2. Mandatory S-Mark + IRAM Dual Labeling Cables need both S-Mark (safety) and IRAM mark; orange labels on cords per Resolution 731/1987. Missing labels block customs; fines up to 10x value.
3. Local Importer-Only Certification Only Argentine importers apply for mandatory IRAM; foreigners get voluntary support certs. Delays shipments; partner selection critical.
4. QR Code Traceability from Oct 2025 Res. 16/2025 requires QR on packaging for verification. Non-compliance halts sales; integrates with INMETRO tracking.
5. Class I/II Plug Distinctions IRAM 2073 (3-pin grounded) for Class I; IRAM 2063 (2-pin) for Class II only. Wrong class risks shocks; audits focus here.
6. IEC + Argentine Deviations Testing Compliance needs IEC tests plus IRAM-specific (e.g., humidity for tropics). Overlooks lead to rejections; 20% failure rate in labs.
7. Validity & Recertification Cycles Certs valid 2-5 years; factory audits every 1-2 years. Expired certs void imports; plan renewals early.

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3. Cable Sizing and Circuit Requirements

IRAM 2199 requires sizing per load, voltage drop (max 5%), and ambient (40°C derating). Use PVC/XLPE; min 1.5 mm² for lighting. Plugs rated 10A/250V (IRAM 2073).

Circuit Type Cable Size Rating Max Load Typical Use
Lighting 1.5 mm² 10 A 10 points Indoor lights
Sockets 2.5 mm² 10 A 8 outlets General plugs
High-Load 4.0 mm² 16 A Dedicated Appliances
EV Charging 6.0 mm²+ 20 A Dedicated Chargers
Earth (PE) Min 2.5 mm² N/A Full Grounding

4. Cable Colour Coding Standards

Per IRAM 2199/IEC 60446: Brown (phase), blue (neutral), green/yellow (PE). Multi-phase: Brown/black/grey. Full-length; labels for legacy red/black.

5. Installation Practices and Safety Rules

Radial circuits, conduits for walls (<50 mm protected). 30 mA RCDs for sockets; TT earthing common. 2025: QR-linked inspections.

6. Fire Safety and Cable Performance

IRAM 2183 requires IEC 60332 flame retardance; LSZH for public. Bundle tests; tropical humidity resistance mandatory.

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7. Ensuring IRAM Compliance in 2025

  1. Obtain S-Mark via local importer.
  2. Test to IEC + IRAM deviations.
  3. Affix dual marks and QR codes.
  4. Schedule audits; renew certs timely.
  5. Partner with INMETRO-accredited labs.

8. Final Thoughts

IRAM's overlooked details – from polarity quirks to QR mandates – can make or break South American entry. Master them for Argentina's gateway role, ensuring safe, compliant cables amid economic growth. Proactive certification turns hurdles into opportunities.

Need IRAM-compliant cables? Contact Henan Province Jianyun Cable Co., Ltd. for tailored solutions and quotes.

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