This standard establishes electrical ratings and test requirements of cable joints usedwith extruded and laminated dielectric shielded cable rated in preferred voltage steps from 2500 Vto 500 000 V. It also defines a variety of common joint constructions. This standard is designed toprovide uniform testing procedures that can be used by manufacturers and users to evaluate theability of underground power cable joints to perform reliably in service.

Revision of IEEE 404-1993 to incorporate: 1) general comments resulting from the 1997 reaffirmation balloting attempt; 2) address "usual service conditions" for qualification purposes; 3) provide consistency with international standards IEC 60502-4 and IEC 60840 where appropriate; 4) expand extruded dielectric cable joints requirements to 500kV; and 5) modify the title appropriately.

To provide a standard for the qualification and production testing of high voltage joints. This standard will specify uniform testing procedures, levels and requirements that can be used by both manufacturers and users to design and specify underground cable joints which will perform safely and reliably in service. The latest proposed revision of the standard would provide harmonization to appropriate international standards and also extend requirements to those voltage classes not presently covered by any standards.