IEC 61918:2018+AMD1:2022+AMD2:2024 is the core international standard for the installation of industrial communication networks. The fourth edition, revised second, was released in March 2024. This standard specifically establishes basic requirements for the installation of communication network media within industrial sites and between automation islands. It covers balanced and optical cabling, and also includes infrastructure requirements for wireless media.
This standard applies to communication networks within industrial automation islands, specifically those specified in the IEC 61158 and IEC 61784 series of standards. It provides guidance for addressing key aspects of industrial automation, including safety, security, and environmental aspects such as mechanical, liquid, particle, climatic, chemical, and electromagnetic interference.
| Network type | Coverage | Special requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Balanced cable network | Ethernet and non-Ethernet basis | Electromagnetic compatibility requirements |
| Fiber optic cable network | Single-mode and multi-mode fiber | Mechanical protection requirements |
| Wireless infrastructure | Access point and antenna installation | Grounding and shielding requirements |
The standard adopts a complete life cycle management approach, dividing industrial network installation into five key stages: installation planning, installation implementation, installation verification and acceptance testing, installation management, installation maintenance and troubleshooting.
Chapter 4 specifies the various requirements for installation planning, including safety, security, environmental considerations, and EMC. Particular emphasis is placed on the application of the MICE (Mechanical, Intrusion, Climatic, Electromagnetic) environment classification method.
| Planning Dimensions | Technical Requirements | Implementation Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Planning | Comply with IEC 60364 Series Standards | Electromagnetic Shock Protection Measures |
| Security Planning | Reference to IEC 62443 Series Standards | Physical Access Control |
| EMC Planning | Use the MICE Classification Methodology | Shielding and Grounding Systems |
Annex B of the standard details the MICE description methodology, providing a systematic approach for electromagnetic compatibility design in industrial environments. E Classification (Electromagnetic) classifies environments based on the electromagnetic interference characteristics generated by industrial equipment. Grounding and shielding requirements are key technical points for industrial network installation: Detailed regulations exist for the cross-sectional area and length requirements for equipotential bonding conductors, the grounding methods for shielded cables, and the specifications for bonding straps. Appendix D of the standard provides detailed connector tables, including technical specifications for various industrial connectors, such as the M12 series, 8-position modular connectors, and BNC connectors. The standard specifies connector requirements for different communication profiles (CPs). Chapter 6 specifies the specific requirements for installation verification and acceptance testing, including visual inspection, mechanical verification, and electrical testing. The standard specifies different acceptance test methods for Ethernet-based and non-Ethernet-based cabling.
The acceptance test report must include a complete record of test results, including key test items such as cable parameter testing, ground bond testing, and terminal resistance verification.
Amendment 2 adds Annex Q, which specifically specifies additional requirements for the installation of balanced single-pair Ethernet networks in industrial locations. This includes installation specifications for single-pair Ethernet technologies such as 1000BASE-T1, 100BASE-T1, 10BASE-T1S, and 10BASE-T1L.
Single-pair Ethernet offers new solutions in industrial environments, offering significant advantages in space-constrained environments and where long-distance transmission is required.
During the project planning phase, it is recommended to conduct an environmental assessment using the MICE methodology to identify the mechanical, intrusion, climatic, and electromagnetic environment levels for each area. Select appropriate cable types, connectors, and protective measures based on the assessment results.
Cable routing should avoid parallel routing with power cables. Minimum spacing requirements should refer to the standards. Shielded cables should be grounded to ensure 360-degree connection to avoid an antenna effect.
It is recommended to use professional testing equipment to conduct comprehensive acceptance testing, including transmission performance testing, grounding continuity testing, and shielding effectiveness testing. Test results should be carefully documented and archived as basic data for subsequent maintenance.
With the development of Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, industrial communication network installation standards will continue to evolve. Future versions may strengthen requirements for wireless network installation, add support for higher-speed networks, and improve network security regulations.
The application of single-pair Ethernet technology in industrial automation will be a key focus of future development, and relevant installation specifications need to be continuously updated and improved to adapt to new technological developments.

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Update:
Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:40:38 +0000