Citation

Matheson AF, Charge R, Corneliussen T. Fire Safety J. 1992; 19(1): 55-72.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper discussed the features of PVC-based compositions designed for use as insulation and sheathing on electrical cables which offer improved resistance to ignition and fire spread compared to conventional PVC cable compounds. Data is provided which demonstrates reduced emission of hydrogen chloride following combustion for these fire retardant low acid (FRLA) materials. A comprehensive range of standards tests for fire behaviour and also for other important cable parameters such as mechanical strength, ageing behaviour and electrical performance are reported for PVC, FRLA-PVC and for non-halogenated low smoke and fume (LSF) compositions. A summary chart lists the strengths and weaknesses of the different materials. It is concluded that all of these cable materials have a role to play depending on the applicational requirements.