Understanding the difference between flame retardant cables and fire resistant cables

The average person is easy to confuse the concept of flame-retardant cable and fire-resistant cable, although flame-retardant cable has many advantages more suitable for chemical enterprises, such as low halogen, low smoke flame retardant, etc., but in general, fire-resistant cable can replace flame-retardant cable, and flame-retardant cable can not replace fire-resistant cable.

The two principles are different, the flame retardant principle of halogen containing cable is based on the flame retardant effect of halogen, and the flame retardant principle of halogen free cable is based on the precipitation of water to reduce the temperature to extinguish the fire. The fire-resistant cable relies on the fire-resistant and heat-resistant characteristics of the mica material in the fire-resistant layer to ensure that the cable works normally in a fire.

The structure and material of the two are different, the basic structure of the flame-retardant cable is: the insulation layer uses flame-retardant material; The sheath and outer protective layer are made of flame-retardant materials; The tape and filling are made of flame retardant material.

The fire-resistant cable is usually between the conductor and the insulation layer and add a fire-resistant layer, so in theory, you can add a fire-resistant layer to the structure of the fire-retardant cable, forming a flame-retardant and fire-resistant cable, but in practice, there is no need. Because of the refractory layer of fire-resistant cables, multiple layers of mica tape are usually used to wrap directly on the wire. It can withstand long-term combustion, even if the polymer where the flame is applied is burned, it can ensure the normal operation of the line.

The main technical indicators of cable fire safety are the flame retardant of CO2 cable, the density of smoke and the toxicity of gas. Based on the above factors, the cable flame retardant standard system includes IEC standards, UL standards, etc.

In summary, the main difference between flame retardant and fire resistant cables is their intended use. Flame retardant cables are designed to slow the spread of fire, while fire resistant cables are designed to withstand high temperatures and remain functional during a fire. Understanding these differences is essential to making informed decisions about electrical installations and ensuring safety in a variety of environments.