Classification of fire-resistant wires and cables and flame-retardant cables are concepts that classify and distinguish the safety performance requirements of wires and cables in different scenarios. The following will introduce the difference between fire-resistant wire and cable classification and flame-retardant cables.
1. Classification of fire-resistant wire and cable:
The classification of fire-resistant wires and cables is based on the fire resistance of wires and cables under fire conditions. Generally, the grade classification of fire-resistant wire and cable mainly includes the following grades:
a. Class A fire-resistant cable: It has the highest fire-resistant performance under fire conditions, can maintain electrical functions for a certain period of time, and maintain the integrity of wires and cables.
b. Class B fire-resistant cable: It has high fire-resistant performance under fire conditions, can maintain electrical functions for a certain period of time, and maintain the integrity of wires and cables.
c. Class C fire-resistant cable: It has certain fire-resistant performance under fire conditions, can maintain electrical functions for a certain period of time, and maintain the integrity of wires and cables.
2. Flame retardant cable:
Flame-retardant cable means that under fire conditions, wires and cables can inhibit the spread and combustion of flames and reduce fire hazards. Flame retardant cables have the following characteristics:
a. Flame retardant performance: It can effectively inhibit the spread and combustion of flames, and reduce the speed of fire spread.
b. Self-extinguishing performance: After the flame source is removed, it can self-extinguish without continuing to burn.
c. Low smoke and non-toxic: less smoke and harmful substances are produced during the combustion process, reducing the harm to personnel and the environment.
3. Difference:
a. Safety performance requirements: The grade classification of fire-resistant wires and cables mainly focuses on the fire-resistant performance of wires and cables under fire conditions, that is, maintaining electrical functions and integrity; while flame-retardant cables focus on suppressing flame spread and burning to reduce fire hazards.
b. Flame spread control: The grade classification of fire-resistant wires and cables does not necessarily require that the wires and cables have the ability to inhibit the spread of flames, while flame-retardant cables require that the wires and cables can effectively inhibit the spread and combustion of flames.
c. Self-extinguishing performance: Flame-retardant cables are required to be able to extinguish themselves after the flame source is removed and not continue to burn, but the classification of fire-resistant wires and cables does not necessarily include this requirement.
d. Emission of smoke and harmful substances: Flame-retardant cables require less smoke and harmful substances during the combustion process, reducing the harm to personnel and the environment; and the classification of fire-resistant wires and cables does not necessarily include requirements for the emission of smoke and harmful substances.
It should be noted that the classification of fire-resistant wires and cables and flame-retardant cables are not mutually exclusive concepts, and can be comprehensively considered and selected according to specific needs and scene requirements. In some places with high requirements, it may be necessary to meet both fire resistance and flame retardancy, so wire and cable products that meet both requirements can be selected.