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

Introduction

In the demanding environments of marine and industrial applications, particularly in South Africa’s robust maritime and energy sectors, the need for reliable, safe, and durable cabling solutions is paramount. The 0.6/1 kV Mica Tape + XLPE Insulated, Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSOH) Sheathed Fire Resistant Power and Control Cables (Single Core) are engineered to meet these stringent requirements. These unarmoured cables, designed for fixed installations on ships and other critical infrastructures, combine fire resistance, flame retardancy, low smoke emission, and halogen-free properties, ensuring safety and performance under extreme conditions.

Overview of Fire Resistant Cables

Fire resistant cables are critical in environments where maintaining circuit integrity during a fire is essential. These cables are designed to continue functioning under high temperatures, ensuring that critical systems such as emergency lighting, fire alarms, and power supply remain operational. The 0.6/1 kV single core cables discussed here are specifically designed for marine applications, adhering to international standards such as IEC 60092-350/351/353/359, IEC 60331-21, IEC 60332-1, IEC 60332-3-22, IEC 60754-1/2, and IEC 61034. Their unarmoured design makes them suitable for installations where mechanical protection is not required, offering flexibility and ease of installation.

Key Features

• Fire Resistance: Ensured by the inclusion of mica tape, which provides exceptional thermal resistance.

• Flame Retardancy: Compliant with IEC 60332-1 and IEC 60332-3-22, preventing flame propagation.

• Low Smoke and Halogen-Free: The LSOH (SHF1) sheath minimizes toxic gas emissions and smoke during combustion, enhancing safety.

• Temperature Range: Operates effectively between -30°C and +80°C, suitable for diverse environmental conditions.

• Conductor Flexibility: Available with Class 2 stranded copper conductors, with Class 5 conductors offered upon request for enhanced flexibility.

Standards Compliance

Compliance with international standards is a cornerstone of these cables’ reliability. The following standards are adhered to:

• IEC 60092-350/351/353/359: Governs the design, construction, and testing of electrical installations in ships.

• IEC 60331-21: Ensures fire resistance, allowing the cable to maintain circuit integrity under fire conditions for a specified duration.

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

• IEC 60754-1/2: Confirms the halogen-free nature of the cable, minimizing toxic gas emissions.

• IEC 61034: Measures smoke density, ensuring low smoke emission for safer evacuation and firefighting.

Applications in South Africa

South Africa’s maritime and industrial sectors benefit significantly from these fire resistant cables. The country’s ports, such as Durban and Cape Town, handle substantial maritime traffic, necessitating reliable cabling for shipboard electrical systems. These cables are used in:

• Marine Vessels: For power and control circuits in ships, ensuring safety in confined spaces.

• Offshore Platforms: In oil and gas rigs off South Africa’s coast, where fire safety is critical.

• Industrial Facilities: In factories and processing plants requiring fire-resistant cabling for emergency systems.

Advantages of Mica Tape + XLPE Insulated, LSOH Sheathed Cables

Enhanced Safety

The combination of mica tape and XLPE insulation ensures that these cables maintain circuit integrity during fires, a critical feature for emergency systems. The LSOH sheath further enhances safety by reducing smoke and toxic gas emissions, which is particularly important in confined spaces like ship compartments or industrial facilities.

Environmental Compliance

The halogen-free nature of the cables aligns with global environmental regulations, reducing the ecological impact of fires. This is particularly relevant in South Africa, where environmental sustainability is a growing priority in industrial and maritime operations.

Durability and Flexibility

The cables’ ability to operate across a wide temperature range and their flexible bending radius make them suitable for diverse applications. The availability of Class 5 conductors further enhances their adaptability in installations requiring frequent movement or tight spaces.

Cost-Effectiveness

While these cables are engineered for high performance, their unarmoured design reduces material costs compared to armoured alternatives, making them a cost-effective choice for fixed installations where mechanical protection is unnecessary.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite their advantages, these cables have limitations that must be considered:

• Unarmoured Design: While cost-effective, the lack of armouring makes them unsuitable for environments with high mechanical risks, such as areas prone to impact or abrasion.

• Installation Expertise: Proper installation is critical to ensure the cables’ fire resistant properties are not compromised. In South Africa, where skilled labour shortages can occur, training is essential.

• Cost vs. Performance: While SHF1 sheaths are standard, opting for SHF2 sheaths for enhanced performance increases costs, requiring a cost-benefit analysis for each application.

The 0.6/1 kV Mica Tape + XLPE Insulated, LSOH (SHF1) Sheathed Fire Resistant Power and Control Cables (Single Core) represent a pinnacle of engineering for safety-critical applications. Their fire resistance, low smoke, and halogen-free properties make them indispensable in South Africa’s maritime and industrial sectors, where safety and reliability are non-negotiable. From the bustling ports of Durban to offshore platforms, these cables deliver performance, compliance, and peace of mind. As South Africa continues to advance its infrastructure and embrace sustainable practices, these cables will play a pivotal role in shaping a safer, more resilient future.