UNDERSTANDING

FIRE RATED CABLES

When there's a fire, there's something special quietly working in
the background – fire-rated cables. These are not your regular
electrical wires. They're designed to stay strong even when it's
really hot. Let's explore why these cables are different and why
they matter in our daily lives.
Fire-rated cables are like the
strong defenders in the wire
world. They're built to handle
heat and fire, ensuring
everything stays connected
during a fire. Think of it as
giving our gadgets an extra
shield to endure really hot
temperatures.
Fire-rated cables undergo rigorous testing to ensure their
reliability in real-life fire scenarios. Various international
standards organizations, such as the International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Underwriters
Laboratories (UL), have specific tests to assess the performance
of these cables under fire conditions. Compliance with these
standards is crucial for certification, and it provides confidence
in the cables' ability to withstand fires effectively.
 RATINGS OF FIRE CABLES
Fire-Resistant (FR): These cables
maintain circuit integrity during a
fire, ensuring power continuity
for a specified period. They are
often used in critical applications
such as emergency lighting.
Fire Retardant (FR/LSZH): Cables
with Low Smoke Zero Halogen
(LSZH) properties not only resist
fire but also emit low smoke and do not contain halogen materials.
This is particularly important for environments where the generation
of toxic smoke can be a concern.
Circuit Integrity (CI): These cables are designed to maintain circuit
integrity even under severe fire conditions. They are commonly
used in applications where uninterrupted power supply is critical for
life safety systems.
 KEY FEATURES YOU MUST KNOW
Fire Resistance: The primary
feature of fire-rated cables is
their ability to resist catching
fire easily. They are made
from materials that can
endure high temperatures
without compromising their
functionality.
Insulation Integrity: Fire-rated cables have robust insulation that
remains intact even when exposed to heat. This insulation is
crucial because it helps prevent electrical issues like short
circuits during a fire.
Low Smoke Emission: Some fire-rated cables are designed to
produce minimal smoke when exposed to fire. This is important
for creating a safer environment during evacuation, as excessive
smoke can be harmful.
Halogen-Free Materials: Many fire-rated cables are made using
materials that do not contain halogens. This is significant
because, during a fire, halogens can release toxic gases.
APPLICATIONS OF FIRE RATED CABLES

Fire-rated cables find applications in various critical areas,

including:
Emergency Systems: They are used in emergency power
systems, ensuring that backup generators and essential
electrical components remain operational during a fire.
Fire Alarms: Fire-rated cables help maintain the functionality of
fire alarm systems, enabling timely detection and response to
fire emergencies.
Communication Networks: These cables play a vital role in
supporting communication systems, such as data centers and
telecommunications infrastructure, during a fire.
 BENIFITS OF FIRE RATED CABLES

Safety Assurance: The primary benefit is the assurance of

safety. By maintaining functionality during a fire, these cables
contribute to the overall safety of building occupants and
emergency responders.
Reduced Damage: Fire-rated cables help minimize damage to
electrical systems and infrastructure, reducing the overall
impact of a fire.
Compliance with Standards: Using fire-rated cables ensures that
a building complies with safety standards and regulations,
providing a standardized approach to fire safety.
Emirates Safety Laboratory's
Rigorous Testing and Certification
Aligned with Global Standards"

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