0.6/1 kV Mica Tape + XLPE Insulated, LSOH (SHF1) Sheathed, Armoured Fire Resistant Power & Control Cables (Multicore)

Introduction

In the demanding environments of marine and industrial applications, the reliability and safety of electrical systems are paramount. South Africa, with its extensive coastline and robust industrial sector, requires cabling solutions that can withstand harsh conditions while ensuring operational continuity during emergencies. The 0.6/1 kV Mica Tape + XLPE Insulated, Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSOH) Sheathed, Armoured Fire-Resistant Power and Control Cables (Multicore), such as the MFX400 1mRMZ1-R series, are engineered to meet these stringent requirements. These cables are designed for fixed installations on ships and in other critical infrastructure, offering fire resistance, flame retardancy, low smoke emission, and halogen-free properties.

Overview of Fire-Resistant Cables

Fire-resistant cables are critical in environments where maintaining electrical functionality during a fire is essential for safety and operational continuity. The MFX400 1mRMZ1-R cables are specifically designed for marine applications, such as on board ships, but their robust characteristics make them suitable for other high-risk environments, including industrial plants, mining operations, and offshore platforms. These cables comply with international standards such as IEC 60092-350/351/353/359 for marine electrical installations, IEC 60331-21 for fire resistance, IEC 60332-1 and IEC 60332-3-22 for flame retardancy, IEC 60754-1/2 for halogen-free properties, and IEC 61034 for low smoke emission.

Key Characteristics

• Fire Resistance: Maintains circuit integrity under fire conditions, ensuring critical systems remain operational.

• Flame Retardancy: Prevents the spread of fire along the cable.

• Low Smoke Emission: Reduces visibility obstruction in fire scenarios, aiding evacuation.

• Halogen-Free: Minimizes the release of toxic gases, enhancing safety for personnel.

• Armoured Design: Provides mechanical protection against physical damage, crucial in harsh environments.

Standards Compliance

The MFX400 1mRMZ1-R cables adhere to rigorous international standards, ensuring their suitability for critical applications:

• IEC 60092-350/351/353/359: Governs the design and testing of electrical cables for marine applications, ensuring reliability in shipboard installations.

• IEC 60331-21: Specifies fire resistance requirements, ensuring the cable maintains functionality for a specified duration under fire conditions (typically 90 minutes at 750°C).

• IEC 60332-1 and IEC 60332-3-22: Tests flame retardancy, ensuring the cable does not propagate fire.

• IEC 60754-1/2: Ensures the cable is halogen-free, preventing the release of corrosive gases during combustion.

• IEC 61034: Measures smoke density, ensuring low smoke emission to aid visibility during evacuation.

Applications in South Africa

In South Africa, the maritime and industrial sectors are critical to the economy, with ports like Durban, Cape Town, and Richards Bay serving as key hubs for international trade. The MFX400 1mRMZ1-R cables are ideal for the following applications:

Marine Applications

On board ships, these cables are used in fixed installations for power distribution, control systems, and communication networks. Their fire-resistant and low-smoke properties are crucial for ensuring the safety of crew and passengers during emergencies. For example, in the Port of Durban, one of South Africa’s busiest ports, these cables are used in container vessels and bulk carriers to power critical systems such as navigation, lighting, and fire suppression.

Industrial Applications

In South Africa’s mining sector, particularly in gold and platinum mines in Gauteng and the North West Province, fire-resistant cables are essential for maintaining operations in hazardous underground environments. The cables’ armoured design protects against mechanical damage from falling rocks or heavy machinery, while their fire-resistant properties ensure continued functionality during fire outbreaks.

Offshore Platforms

South Africa’s offshore oil and gas exploration, particularly off the coast of Mossel Bay, relies on robust cabling solutions. The MFX400 cables’ halogen-free and low-smoke characteristics make them suitable for offshore platforms, where evacuation routes must remain visible and safe during emergencies.

Advantages of MFX400 1mRMZ1-R Cables

The MFX400 1mRMZ1-R cables offer several advantages that make them a preferred choice in South African applications:

Enhanced Safety

The combination of mica tape and XLPE insulation ensures circuit integrity during fires, allowing critical systems like fire alarms and emergency lighting to function. The LSOH sheath minimizes toxic gas emissions, reducing health risks for personnel.

Durability

The copper wire braid armour provides exceptional mechanical protection, making the cables suitable for harsh environments like South African mines and ports, where physical damage is a constant risk.

Environmental Compliance

The halogen-free and low-smoke properties align with South Africa’s environmental regulations, particularly in marine and industrial settings where emissions must be minimized.

Versatility

With configurations ranging from 2 to 37 cores and cross-sectional areas up to 120 mm², these cables can be tailored to a wide range of power and control applications, from small control circuits to high-power distribution systems.

Cost-Effectiveness

While the initial cost of fire-resistant cables may be higher than standard cables, their longevity and reduced maintenance requirements result in significant cost savings over time. In South African industries, where downtime can be costly, this is a critical advantage.

Conclusion

The 0.6/1 kV Mica Tape + XLPE Insulated, LSOH (SHF1) Sheathed, Armoured Fire-Resistant Power and Control Cables (Multicore) are a cornerstone of safe and reliable electrical systems in South Africa’s marine and industrial sectors. Their compliance with international standards, robust construction, and advanced safety features make them indispensable for applications where human safety and operational continuity are non-negotiable. From the bustling ports of Durban and Cape Town to the challenging environments of Gauteng’s mines, these cables deliver unmatched performance. As South Africa continues to advance its infrastructure, the MFX400 1mRMZ1-R series will play a pivotal role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability.