Low smoke zero halogen wire has been in use since 1970. What do we mean by zero-halogen wire? This type of wire does not have any chemical elements known as halogens like bromine, chlorine, and fluorine. Any halogen is a significant fire retardant, and halogens are added to naturally halogen-free materials so that a cable can pass the industry flame test. The objective of having wires and cables insulated with low smoke and zero halogens was to reduce the production of obscuring, dense and toxic gases. To guarantee safety, wire manufacturers have been producing low smoke zero halogen wire that has proven to be highly resistant to fire, thus maintaining high performance.
What Is A Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) Cable Wire?
Low smoke zero halogen wire is a type of wire that releases little or no poisonous gases or fumes when exposed to fire. In case of fire experiences, such wire makes escaping safer and easier in a burning and smoky environment. Even if a low smoke zero halogens (LSZH) cable wire has the advantage of low smoke and corrosion, they have mechanical and electrical properties that are significantly reduced. Therefore, the manufacturers ensure that when laying a low smoke zero halogen wire, the wire bending radius should be larger than an ordinary wire.
Features of
A low smoke zero halogen wire can transmit power with a voltage of 600V. The wire can withstand a heat temperature of a maximum of 900C in both dry and wet environments. A low smoke zero halogen wire is resistant to direct sunlight, abrasion, chemicals, and harsh weather conditions.
When you purchase a low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) cable wire, consider checking and confirming if the wire is ICEA 2-95-658 (WC70) and ICEA S-73-532 rated. It should meet specific standards and be approved by the UL 1685. This type of wire also should have passed the IEEE 383 flame test to prove that it’s indeed low smoke zero halogen wire.
Low smoke zero halogen wire is more expensive but with less flexibility. The wire will cost you more compared to the PVC wire, and due to its less flexibility, it doesn’t come with many restrictions. A low smoke zero halogen wire should be halogen-free according to the EN50167, EN50168, and EN50169 standards.
Difference between LSZH and PVC Wire
By action of looking at them, LSZH and PVC wire is different. You will realize the LSZH wire’s patch cord is more robust and rigid while the PVC patch cord is soft. Low smoke zero halogen wire’s patch cord is rigid since it has flame retardant components. These compounds are aesthetically more pleasing.
Since PVC wires are manufactured from polyvinyl chloride, they can heavy black smoke when burning, plus hydrochloric acid and other toxic gases. However, low smoke zero halogen wire doesn’t produce smoke or toxic gases when burning.
Applications of a Low Smoke Zero Halogen Wire
Commonly, a low smoke zero halogen wire is used in a lowly ventilated area like a ship, ocean liner, airliner, submersible, freight, seaward installation, and a container. The low smoke zero halogen wires are also applied in mass transmission and central office facilities. Various telecommunication standards use the low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) cable wire due to the sensitivity of their electronic devices.
Conclusion
Low smoke zero halogen wire has a variety of applications in the transport, communication, and industrial sectors. The wire is preferred for its durability and doesn’t produce toxic gases during burning. It’s a significant type of wire you should get for your safety just in case of fire accidents. If you wish to have more details about the low smoke zero halogen wire, consult with us, and we are ready to offer the required assistance.