The term “low- smoke” describes the amount of smoke which a compound emits when burned, while “zero-halogen” describes the number of halogens used to make the compound. A product can be low-smoke but not zero-halogen or be zero-halogen but not low-smoke.
What is low smoke and fume cable?
LSF (Low Smoke & Fume) Cables LSF cables are usually made up of a modified PVC compound which produces somewhat less HCL gas and smoke on burning than PVC. However, it still produces 15% to 22 % (depending on quality) of HCL gas and due to the presence of PVC can still emit dense black smoke.20 Oct 2021
Is LSZH flame retardant?
The cables are also commonly referred to as ZHLS cables or halogen free cables. They often have flame retardant properties, making them flame retardant low smoke (FR-LS) cables.
What is halogen free cable?
Halogen-free cables are cables whose materials are not processed with the elements of the halogen group. As non-conductors, halogens such as chlorine are excellent insulators and are therefore often used as jacket material for cables. The most common example of this is polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
What is the material of LSZH cable?
Low-Smoke Zero-Halogen (LSZH or LSOH) is a type of plastic used in the wire and cable industry for cable jacketing. LSOH cable jacketing is custom compounded to produce minimal smoke and low toxicity when exposed to fire. Most network cables (CAT5, CAT6, etc.)
Does LSZH contain PVC?
What's the difference between PVC and LSZH cables A PVC cable (made of polyvinyl chloride) has a jacket that gives off heavy black smoke, hydrochloric acid, and other toxic gases when it burns. Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cable has a flame-resistant jacket that doesn't emit toxic fumes even if it burns.
What is LSZH wire?
LSZH cable/wire refers to cables where the cable jacketing and insulation is made with materials that produce low/limited smoke and non-toxic halogens when exposed to fire or high temperatures. There is also low smoke cable and zero halogen cable / halogen free cable.
Is LSZH better than PVC?
Judging from the physical appearance, the difference between LSZH and PVC cable is very distinct. A PVC cable feels soft and it is smooth, whereas an LSZH cable feels rough since they contain the flame retardant compound and it is stiffer. LSZH cables are more aesthetically appealing than PVC cables.
When should you use low smoke cable?
Because the purpose of LSZH cables is generally to minimise risk from the after-effects of an electrical fire like gas and smoke inhalation, they are generally used in large public spaces where there is a risk of fire.4 Feb 2013
Why is smoke cable low?
When burned, a low-smoke zero halogen cable emits a less optically dense smoke that releases at a lower rate. During a fire, a low-smoke cable is desirable because it reduces the amount and density of the smoke, which makes exiting a space easier for occupants as well as increases the safety of firefighting operations.
What is LSZH material?
Low-Smoke Zero-Halogen (LSZH or LSOH) is a type of plastic used in the wire and cable industry for cable jacketing. Low-smoke zero-halogen material is becoming very popular, and can be required when the safety of people and equipment is critical.
Is LSZH UV resistant?
The cable's resistance to UV allows the electrician to install the cable from the main plant onto the roof of a building and drop down anywhere onto the shop floor.31 Jul 2014
Where can I use LSZH cables?
They are therefore often specified indoors, especially in public areas, and in other hazardous environments and poorly ventilated areas. This includes cars, aircraft, railway carriages and ships. LSZH sheathed cables are commonly used across tunnels and underground rail networks.
Where is LSZH required?
LSZH cables are often used where safety, along with performance and reliability, are critical. They are typically specified for use in highly populated, enclosed public spaces where flame resistance, low smoke production and reduced toxic/corrosive gas emissions during combustion are critical.