Cable Fire Resistant Test Equipment | IEC 60331, BS 6387
Cable Fire Resistant Test Equipment | IEC 60331, BS 6387
The Fire Resistant Cable is designed to operate effectively for a specified duration during a fire incident. The testing conditions for fire resistance typically include exposure to a propane gas flame between 650 and 950 degrees Celsius, with or without mechanical shock, or subjected to water spray.
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The construction of fire-resistant cables resembles that of standard cables, but with notable differences:
1) The use of copper conductors to attain a higher melting point.
2) An additional fire-resistant layer is incorporated between the conductor and the insulation layer, which is typically made of multiple layers of mica material tape.
This specific structure guarantees that fire-resistant cables maintain functionality for a predetermined time during a fire, making them suitable for mission-critical electrical circuits. These applications include power supply circuits for emergency fire-fighting equipment, fire alarm systems, ventilation and smoke exhaust mechanisms, emergency indicator lights, and emergency elevators.
Fire Resistant Cable vs Flame Retardant Cable
Alongside fire-resistant cables, flame-retardant cables constitute another essential category. Flame-retardant cables do not propagate flames upon exposure to fire, and after the external fire source is extinguished, they can self-extinguish or limit flame spread to a restricted distance.
The structure of flame-retardant cables is fundamentally similar to that of ordinary cables, with the key difference being that portions or all of the insulation layer, sheath, and auxiliary components are made from flame-retardant materials. This enhances the cable's non-flammable nature, restricts flame spread, and improves the self-extinguishing ability when exposed to fire.
Both fire-resistant and flame-retardant cables contribute to enhanced safety in fire situations. Generally, fire-resistant cables are utilized in critical circuits to ensure continuous operation during a fire, while flame-retardant cables find broader usage given their ability to inhibit fire spread.
For additional information regarding flame-retardant cable fire tests and classifications, please refer to the European Cable Fire Testing and Classification standards.
Fire Resistant Test Standards for Cable
IEC Standards
Test protocols for fire resistance of unprotected small cables intended for emergency circuits are defined, including:
IEC 60331-1: Fire test with shock at 830 °C for cables of rated voltage up to 0.6/1 kV with a diameter exceeding 20 mm.
IEC 60331-2: Similar protocols for cables with a diameter not exceeding 20 mm.
IEC 60331-3: Test methods conducted in a metal enclosure.
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BS Standards include:
BS 6387: Methods for assessing fire integrity of electric cables under defined conditions.
BS 8434-1 and BS 8434-2 detail test methods for unprotected small cables with specific parameters including water spray.
SS 299: This Singapore Standard outlines requirements for fire-resistant cables and their performance in maintaining circuit integrity in fire conditions.
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