The key differences between flame-retardant cables and conventional cables lie in their material formulation, flame-retardant properties, and intended use. Flame-retardant cables suppress flame spread by adding flame-retardant materials, while conventional cables lack these properties.
Key Difference Analysis
Flame-retardant Performance
Flame-retardant cables: Under test conditions, flame spread is limited and self-extinguishes, for example, meeting the three-level flame retardancy rating of A/B/C (ZA>ZB>ZC) according to GB12666.5. These materials have passed flame retardancy testing, slowing the spread of fire and reducing the risk of fire spread.
Conventional cables: Without flame-retardant treatment, flames continue to spread during combustion and cannot be extinguished on their own.
Materials and Structure
Flame-retardant cables:
Flame retardants (such as halogenated or low-smoke, halogen-free materials) are added to the insulation and sheath, creating a double-layer structure (a flame-retardant outer layer and a high-temperature-resistant inner layer).
Some high-end products use halogen-free polymers to reduce toxic gases and smoke during combustion. Ordinary Cable: Made of conventional PVC or polyethylene, without flame retardant additives.
Applicable Applications
Flame-retardant Cable: For use in locations with high fire risk or where personnel evacuation is necessary, such as industrial and mining enterprises, high-rise buildings, and subway tunnels.
Ordinary Cable: Suitable for internal wiring of general electrical equipment or in low-risk environments.
Pricing and Certification
Flame-retardant Cable: More expensive (especially ZA-grade), requires certifications such as GB/T19666, and is printed with a "ZR" logo.
Ordinary Cable: Lower in price, with no special certification requirements.
Typical Case Studies
Fire Safety: Flame-retardant cable can extend escape time by over 15 times, with a heat release rate that is only one-fourth that of ordinary cable and toxic gas generation reduced to one-third. Cost Tradeoff: Although flame-retardant cables are approximately 10%-30% more expensive, their fire damage control benefits far outweigh the price difference. Summary: Flame-retardant cables, through improved materials and a graded design, achieve localized fire containment during fires, making them a safe and preferred option for high-risk scenarios. Conventional cables are suitable for more conventional environments due to their lower cost. A comprehensive assessment of safety requirements and budget is crucial when choosing between these cables.
