Fire Resistant Cables

“Resistance-to-fire” in cables refers to the ability of certain cables to maintain their functionality (must continue operating) and integrity (cable internal structure/insulation must show no cracks or damages otherwise service is interrupted) when exposed to high temperatures, flames and fire extinguishing practices (e.g. water jets, sprinklers).

Not all cables are fire resistant. A cable is classified as fire resistant only when it can maintain its functionality and integrity during and after exposure to fire for a specified period under defined conditions as per international cable design, testing and certification standards (CENELEC and IEC).   

Fire resistance standards for cables define different classes of fire resistant cables depending on the behaviour of cables when exposed to fire testing protocols (15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes of operation in a standardised fire condition).   

These classifications ensure that cables are tested and rated for their performance in fire conditions, providing safety and reliability in various applications.   

Fire resistance standards also cover other fire-related topics like contribution to expanding a fire, smoke production development and density, and corrosiveness/acidity of combustion gases, to ensure safety in the event of a fire.   

Not all applications require fire resistant cables. In specific applications, where maintaining circuit integrity and essential systems operations during a fire during a fire is critical, fire resistant cables play a crucial role for example:   

• Emergency Lighting – to ensure that emergency lights remain operational during a fire, aiding in safe evacuation.   
• Fire Alarm Systems – to keep fire alarm systems functional, allowing for timely alerts and responses.   
• Communication Systems – to maintain the operation of critical communication networks, such as intercoms and public address systems.   
• Power Supply to Essential Equipment – to provide power to vital equipment like fire pumps, sprinklers and other fire-fighting installations, smoke extraction systems, and emergency generators.   
• Transport Infrastructure - in tunnels, airports, and railway stations to maintain safety systems during emergencies.   
• Industrial Facilities - in chemical plants, power plants, and other industrial settings where fire hazards are significant.   
• High-Rise Buildings - to ensure that essential services remain operational during a fire.   

In the Industrial and Construction industry the impact of fire resistant cables on safety is, therefore, huge in terms of safety.   

The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) is a European Union regulation defines the rules and the requirements of construction products to be manufactured, distributed or installed in the European Union. 

The Regulation ensures that construction products meet essential safety and performance requirements, contributing to the overall safety and reliability of buildings and infrastructure.   

Cables were included in the CPR legislation only starting from July 1, 2017, with a specific focus on cables’ reaction to fire.   

Other countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and China, have their own stringent regulations and standards, however, the CPR’s harmonized approach and comprehensive requirements make it one of the most rigorous frameworks globally.   

Prysmian offers a wide range of cables for a variety of applications requiring fire resistance properties, that are compliant to the most stringent international standards. In addition, any specific local standard or customer specification can be achieved with our local or tailor-made products.   

Also, our fire resistant cables are designed to provide reliable performance during fire conditions and meet the safety standards set by international and local construction products regulations, including the EU’s CPR.