Know the Difference Between Flame Retardant and Fire Resistant Cables

Fire safety is one of the most critical aspects in the construction, industrial, and electrical installation sectors. In efforts to minimize the risk of damage and protect human lives and valuable assets, the selection of appropriate materials is crucial, including the choice of electrical cables. As awareness of the importance of fire protection systems grows, terms like flame-retardant cables and fire-resistant cables frequently appear in technical specifications and electrical safety regulations for buildings.

Although often considered similar, the two have significantly different characteristics and functions. This article is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the differences between flame-retardant and fire-resistant cables, as well as how to choose the appropriate type based on specific needs.

DEFINITION

Flame retardant cable

This cable is designed to inhibit the spread of fire in the event of a fire. Although this cable can burn when exposed to a heat source or direct flame, its coating and insulation materials have been formulated to prevent the fire from spreading quickly through the cable, and will extinguish immediately when the source of the fire is removed.

Flame-retardant cables are not designed to remain functional during a fire but rather to reduce the risk of fire spread, thereby providing more time for building occupants to evacuate and minimizing structural damage.

Fire resistant cable

This is a cable that can continue to operate or conduct electricity when exposed to fire for a certain period of time (usually 30-120 minutes). This cable is designed to maintain the continuity of important systems in buildings, such as fire alarms, evacuation lights, and automatic fire extinguishing systems.

FUNCTIONS AND APPLICATIONS

Flame retardant cable

Main Functions:

• Prevents the spread of fire in the event of a fire.
• Self-extinguishing after the source of the fire is gone.
• Reduces the risk of fire spreading through cable networks in buildings or installations.

General Applications:

Used in electrical systems that do not require operation during a fire but must still meet fire safety standards, such as in residential buildings, offices, and other public spaces.

Fire-Resistant Cable

Primary Functions:

• Maintains electrical current during a fire, ensuring critical systems remain operational.
• Provides additional evacuation time and maintains the functionality of safety systems.
• Ensures the reliability of communication, emergency lighting, and control systems during emergencies.

General Applications:

Used in electrical systems that must remain operational in fire conditions.

• Fire alarm systems.
• Emergency lighting and evacuation signs.
• Emergency elevators and emergency stair systems.
• Hydrant pumps and automatic fire extinguishers.
• Ventilation and smoke extraction systems.
• Data centres and critical communication systems.
• Automatic door control or emergency access.

CABLE CONSTRUCTION

Flame retardant cable

Copper conductor wire coated by PVC with a special formula to resist flame propagation.

Fire resistant cable

Copper conductor wire coated with mica tape, a special ceramic-based material to maintain conductor function and performance when burning. Then it is coated with PVC with a special formula so that the cable can be fire resistant.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the difference between flame retardant and fire-resistant cables is very important in determining the right cable according to installation needs. Flame retardant prevents the spread of fire, while fire resistant keeps the electricity running in fire or emergency conditions.

Wilson Cables's superior products provide not only the best quality, but also the right solution to provide a safe, efficient electrical system that complies with safety and fire prevention regulations.