Key Questions to Ask When Ordering low smoke zero halogen lszh

The use of halogenated compounds in cables has decreased in the last few years and polymers such as PVC are being phased out, particularly in enclosed, high-density cable applications.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website SUNUA.

Instead, low-smoke and zero halogen compounds are being used in cable jacketing as they are designed with fire safety and reliability in mind.

In this article, we’re going to be explaining exactly what LSOH cables are and why you should use them for your next project.

What is a LSOH Cable?

LSOH cables are designed with polyolefin based thermoplastic jackets, which have high fire resistance and reduce toxic gas emissions.

These cables also emit less optically dense smoke at a lower rate, compared to traditional PVC sheathed cables, which create thick black clouds of toxic smoke when they come into contact with fire.

This enhances fire protection by making it easier for occupants to exit a space and increases the safety of firefighting operations thanks to improved visibility.

Their use is critical in public buildings, transportation systems, and areas where wiring is dense, like data centres.

LSZH vs Traditional Cables

When comparing LSZH cables to standard cables, the key differences lie in their composition and the safety level they provide. Traditional cables, often PVC-based, release chlorine, a halogen, when burned, leading to the production of thick, toxic smoke.

LSOH cables, however, are free of halogens, which could be the difference between life or death in the event of a fire.

Is LSZH Cable Fire Resistant?

One of the primary characteristics of LSZH cables is their fire resistance. While no cable is entirely fire-proof, LSZH cables are designed to withstand high temperatures better and resist combustion. In the event of a fire, these cables will burn at a much slower rate than traditional cables, reducing the spread of flames.

Benefits in Safety-Critical Environments

The fire-resistant properties of LSZH cables make them ideal for use in safety-critical environments such as hospitals, schools, and airports. In these settings, the safety of individuals is critical, and the reduced risk of toxic smoke inhalation can be life-saving during a fire emergency.

Is LSZH Cable UV Resistant?

LSZH cables also exhibit good resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The materials used in LSZH cables are treated to withstand UV radiation, which helps in preventing degradation over time.

Applications and Longevity

The UV resistance of LSZH cables extends their lifespan, particularly in installations where exposure to sunlight is constant, such as in outdoor arenas or along exterior walls of buildings. This durability, coupled with their safety features, makes LSZH cables a versatile and long-lasting choice for a wide range of wiring projects.

LSZH Cable Regulations

The manufacturing and application of LSZH cables are governed by a variety of safety standards and regulations. These guidelines ensure that cables used in construction and electronic applications adhere to safety, health, and environmental protection standards.

Overview of Relevant Safety Standards and Regulations

In the UK and Europe, LSZH cables must comply with standards such as the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) for cables, which includes specifications for fire performance. Additionally, these cables often need to meet the requirements of the British Standards (BS), particularly BS EN .

LSZH cables are designed with materials that not only reduce smoke and eliminate halogen emissions but also meet the flame spread and heat release requirements set by these standards. They undergo rigorous testing for smoke density, corrosivity, and flame propagation to ensure compliance.

Where is LSZH Cable Used?

Low Smoke Zero Halogen cables are versatile and can be used in a wide range of environments, owing to their safety features and durability. Their application spans across different sectors, from residential to industrial.

In the industrial sector, LSZH cables are often used in areas where cable fire could severely impact operational continuity, such as in power plants, factories, and refineries. In the public sector, their application is crucial in hospitals, schools, and transportation systems, where safety and minimal toxic hazard in the event of a fire are priorities.

One notable example is the use of LSZH cables in the London Underground. After the King's Cross fire in , there was a significant move towards using LSZH cables across the network to reduce the risk of toxic smoke in fires. Another example can be seen in data centres worldwide, where LSZH cables are preferred to protect sensitive equipment and maintain air quality.

LSOH Cables in Residential Settings

In residential settings, LSZH cables are becoming increasingly popular, especially in high-rise buildings and complexes. Their use is critical in minimising the risks associated with electrical fires. The low smoke emission ensures better visibility and reduced inhalation hazards during evacuation, a key safety feature for homes.

LSOH Cables in Commercial Buildings

LSOH cables are a staple in modern commercial buildings, including offices, shopping centres, and entertainment venues. This helps to improve the safety of a large number of people and valuable assets.

Why Use LSZH Cables?

Advantages over Traditional Cables

The primary advantage of LSZH cables is in their composition which ensures low smoke emission and the absence of halogen when exposed to fire. This contrasts with traditional PVC cables, which can release dense, toxic smoke and halogenated gases like chlorine and bromine.

LSZH cables provide improved visibility in fire situations, reducing the risk of smoke inhalation injuries.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

From an environmental standpoint, LSZH cables are less harmful as they do not release halogenated gases that contribute to environmental degradation and pose health risks. In terms of safety, the use of LSZH cables minimises the risk of fire spreading, as they are more resistant to combustion compared to traditional cables.

LSZH Cables are a Fire Retardant Solution

LSZH cables are designed to be fire retardant. They are made from materials that have a high ignition point, which means they take longer to catch fire. Additionally, when they do burn, they emit less heat, reducing the likelihood of propagating the fire. Their composition limits the amount of oxygen available to fuel a fire, further inhibiting fire spread.

Installation and Maintenance of LSZH Cables

Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for maximising the performance and longevity of LSZH cables. Following best practices in installation and regular maintenance can significantly enhance their efficiency and safety.

Assess the Environment

Before installation, assess the environment for factors like temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight. LSZH cables have specific environmental tolerances that should be considered for optimal performance.

Use the Right Tools

Employ appropriate tools and techniques to avoid damaging the cable insulation and conductors. Over-tightening, sharp bends, and rough handling can compromise the cable's integrity.

Cable Routing

Plan the cable routing to minimise exposure to potential hazards and to ensure easy access for inspection and maintenance. Avoid areas with high risk of mechanical damage or extreme environmental conditions.

LSOH Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is LSZH cable fire resistant?

Yes, LSZH cables are fire resistant. While no cable can be entirely fireproof, LSZH cables are designed to resist ignition and slow down the spread of fire. Their construction materials have a higher ignition point compared to traditional cables, which helps in reducing the risk of fire propagation.

How does LSZH compare to traditional cables in terms of safety?

In terms of safety, LSZH cables offer significant advantages over traditional cables. The key difference lies in their ability to emit less smoke and no halogenated gases when exposed to fire. This reduces the risk of smoke inhalation and exposure to toxic gases, which are major hazards in fire incidents. Additionally, their flame retardant properties make them safer in terms of fire prevention and containment.

Can LSZH cables be used outdoors?

Yes, LSZH cables can be used outdoors. They are often treated for UV resistance, which makes them suitable for external applications. However, it's important to choose the right type of LSZH cable designed for outdoor use, as environmental factors like sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and moisture can affect cable performance and longevity.

What’s the difference between LSF and LSOH?

LSF (Low Smoke and Fume) cables are made from a modified version of PVC, however, they can still emit up to 22% hydrogen chloride when burned and large amounts of black smoke. This black smoke can obscure exit routes during a fire, and hydrogen chloride gas can be harmful to both people and equipment. LSOH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables, when exposed to fire, emit no more than 0.5% hydrogen chloride and burn cleanly compared to LSF cables.

What is the BS EN/IEC (smoke density) test?

The BS EN/IEC test measures the amount of smoke generated by burning cables. The test is also referred to as the three metre cube test as it is performed inside a chamber measuring 3x3x3 metres for 40 minutes.

During the test, a white beam of light is beamed through the chest and monitored. In order to pass the test and achieve the title ‘LSOH’, there must be an excess of 60% light visibility through the smoke.

What is the BS & BS EN/IEC (acid gas emissions) test?

The acid gas emissions test determines the levels of acid gases evolved during the combustion of cables. 1g+/-0.005g of insulation material is placed inside a tube furnace and heated for 30 minutes at 935ºC. The catch solution absorbs any gases produced, which is then made up into a litre of liquid.

Testers will then measure the pH of the solution and the conductivity values.

There are more and more people interested and ask about LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) electrical conduit and accessories. In order to address these queries and provide comprehensive information, we have prepared this article to shed light on the topic.

With increasing environmental concerns and the growing emphasis on safety standards, it has become imperative to upgrade electrical conduit systems to meet the latest requirements. LSZH conduit and accessories offer a viable solution in this regard. In this article, we will delve into the concept of LSZH conduit, its benefits, and its applications, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this innovative technology.

LSZH conduit, as the name suggests, refers to a type of conduit that is manufactured using materials with low smoke emission and zero halogen content. Unlike traditional PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) conduits, LSZH conduits are designed to minimize the release of toxic gases and smoke in the event of a fire. This makes them an ideal choice for applications where human safety and environmental protection are paramount.

LSZH, which stands for Low Smoke Zero Halogen, offers significant advantages by greatly reducing the emission of black smoke and halogens during combustion. This not only makes it more environmentally friendly but also enhances safety.

It is well known that halogens are toxic gases, and excessive inhalation can lead to poisoning. In the context of fire rescue operations, minimizing the inhalation of toxic gases by trapped individuals increases their chances of survival. Additionally, the large amount of black smoke generated by traditional pipes during combustion can make rescue efforts more challenging. This is where the low smoke and zero halogen characteristics of LSZH pipes prove advantageous.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of low smoke zero halogen lszh. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

The terms LSOH, HFFR (Halogen Free Fire Retardant) and NHFR (Non Halogenated Fire Retardant) are often used interchangeably.

These are the two primary standards, but there are also other standards such as ETL verified, IEEE-, and NFPA-130. Let’s take IEC -1: as an example, which provides detailed requirements for sample selection, cleaning, test procedures, and result evaluation. It evaluates the smoke content and presence of halogens in the samples under test conditions using chemical or physical methods. The testing includes blank tests, material tests, halogen acid content calculation, among others. Therefore, products that have undergone these tests are 100% compliant in terms of quality.

It is important to note that the outer diameter dimensions in North America may slightly differ from those in other countries, as they are measured in inches. The commonly used sizes range from 1/2 inch to 8 inches. Here are some information of Ledes low smoke halogen free conduit, for more, please click the link here.

Main standards:

IEC-1, IEC-21

Other related standards:

EN-2, IEC-1

IEC-2, ASTM E662

ISO-2, ISO, UL94

Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) products have gained widespread application in Australia and other countries such as Chile and Peru. Not only conduits but also cables are being promoted for broader adoption in LSZH materials.

As a result, there are multiple relevant standards, which are listed on our LSZH conduit page. You can click here to view the related products.

In Australia, comprehensive testing is conducted for LSZH product series. Taking IEC -1: as an example, it encompasses general tests (specifications), physical performance tests (tensile strength, insulation properties), fire rating tests, and more. It can be said that the testing is quite extensive.

In other relevant EN or IEC standards, we can observe requirements for pH value (mainly testing Halogen Free properties), Oxygen Index, and detailed testing for Low Smoke as outlined in ASTM E662. This comprehensive testing process examines the raw materials, formulations, and manufacturing processes. If you are interested in this aspect, you can contact our customer service team for more details.

Lastly, it is important to note that Australia, unlike North America, typically uses millimeters (mm) as the unit of measurement. The mainstream dimensions range from 20mm to 150mm, catering to the needs of most everyday construction projects.

PVC conduit is typically made from polyvinyl chloride, a thermoplastic polymer derived directly from petroleum or similar products. On the other hand, LSZH conduit incorporates inorganic material fillers into a thermoplastic matrix. For example, aluminum trihydrate (ALTH) is added to the appropriate thermoplastic base to suppress fire and form char, thereby reducing the emission of toxic gases, smoke, and carbon particles while maintaining the required electrical insulation and physical performance for the intended application. The preferred flame-retardant inorganic filler is still aluminum trihydrate (ALTH). In the event of a fire, this material undergoes an endothermic chemical reaction, absorbing heat and releasing steam. Importantly, the decomposition of the polymer carrying the filler occurs at approximately the same temperature. The steam disrupts the combustion of outgassing, aiding in the formation of a char layer that protects the remaining material and captures particulates. The high filler content (around 60%) also replaces a significant portion of the base polymer, reducing the overall fuel available for combustion.

Based on these material properties and composition differences, LSZH conduit significantly reduces the emission of toxic gases and carbon particles compared to PVC. Through its endothermic chemical reaction during combustion, it helps to lower smoke generation, making it more environmentally friendly and safe.

As mentioned earlier, the material characteristics of LSZH conduit require a different additive formulation during the manufacturing process. Compared to PVC conduit, there are limitations on the additives used in LSZH conduit production. This is because the addition of different additives may have an impact on its physical or chemical properties, including its low smoke characteristics and overall product quality stability. Therefore, strict adherence to relevant processes and ensuring the quality of additives is crucial in the manufacturing process. Additionally, the price of additives for LSZH conduit is typically 2-3 times higher than that of PVC conduit.

Although both PVC and LSZH conduits adhere to UL94 standards, the low smoke and halogen-free conduit requires higher fire ratings. For example, Ledes’ low smoke and halogen-free products fully comply with the highest UL94 classification, V0. You can compare the differences between various UL94 ratings to understand their significance.

The higher fire ratings offer obvious benefits. If the fire source is cut off immediately, the LSZH conduit can self-extinguish in a shorter time. For example, the UL94V-0 standard requires extinguishing within 10 seconds, but Ledes’ products go further by achieving a 5-second rating. This reduces the generation of flames, dense smoke, and toxic gases, providing more time for rescue efforts.

In reality, many people confuse LSZH conduit, PVC conduit, and PVC pipe, thinking that they can be interchangeable. This is actually an incorrect notion.

Essentially, LSZH conduit and PVC conduit belong to the same category of conduits as they are both used for electrical wiring applications, with the difference lying in their material composition, as we have explained in detail earlier. Therefore, I won’t repeat it here. On the other hand, PVC pipe, especially white PVC pipe, is specifically designed for drainage, sewage, or water purposes. Apart from sharing the same raw material as PVC conduit, they differ in terms of additives, physical properties, and testing standards.

In terms of design purpose, both LSZH conduit and PVC conduit are used for cable protection. Therefore, their design focuses on physical performance, resistance to UV or sunlight exposure, and, if buried underground, considerations for water absorption and resistance to underground bacteria. In the design and manufacturing process, they incorporate additional additives to enhance specific performance aspects and ensure long-term cable protection.

In contrast, PVC pipe primarily considers its internal compressive strength. Its main purpose is to ensure smooth water flow without any damage within the designated pressure range. Consequently, its required physical properties are notably different.

As pipe distributors are well aware of these distinctions, how can ordinary consumers differentiate between them? It’s actually quite simple. By examining the imprints on the pipe wall, one can discern the differences. Reputable manufacturers or brand producers usually clearly label the product specifications, model, name, certification standards, and temperature information on the pipe. By carefully observing the pipe wall, one can easily identify the distinctions.

Therefore, LSZH conduit or PVC conduit should not be mixed with white PVC pipe as their performances are completely different, and mixing them may pose risks.

In schools and hospitals, where sensitive populations such as students or patients are present, there is a higher demand for environmental and building material standards. Using superior electrical conduit products can help improve the environment and safety in these settings. Ledes has been involved in various projects in this sector. For instance, in the Hospital Project in the outlying islands of Macau, contractors have consistently chosen Ledes’ low smoke and halogen-free conduit and accessories due to their commitment to creating a highly safe and secure hospital environment. The products have received positive feedback since the initial phase.

Pharmaceutical Company, Hengrui Pharma, a leading pharmaceutical companies in China, ranked the 21st out of the top global pharma firms in , also chose Ledes Low Smoke Halogen Free conduits and fittings for its building construction.

These are just a few examples, and Ledes has been involved in various projects across different industries. If you would like more detailed information about the projects Ledes has participated in, please contact our business manager.

Moreover, the low smoke and halogen-free conduit and accessories can be used in many other scenarios, including:

• Residential buildings
• Theaters or large public venues
• Data centers, telecommunications, and network equipment connections and cable protection
• Elevator and power plant facilities and cable protection
• Outdoor cable protection for solar power plants
• Cable protection for new energy electric vehicles and related products

In addition to looking for certified suppliers, it is well known that the various parameters of the certification also have a range of values, namely the minimum and maximum values. If the minimum value of the certification standard can be reached, it can be regarded as certified.

Why do we mention these? Because Ledes’ brand concept has always been to make the best products, we have been updating and iterating technology to achieve the highest value. For example, we mentioned the fire rating before. Ledes’ products have reached the highest level UL94V-0. Generally speaking, the more demanding the supplier is for product quality, the stronger its R&D capabilities are, and the better the quality of the product is.

Of course, before the supplier ships or after you receive the goods, you can also entrust a third-party agency to test to see whether it meets the supplier’s nominal parameters. This can also protect your rights and interests to the greatest extent.

At the same time, better product quality can ensure that the product is used for a longer time, which saves you costs in the long run. Suppose we compare a group of unqualified products with excellent products. It may be cheaper in the initial purchase of unqualified products, saving procurement costs. However, once a problem occurs later, it will cost several times more (labor, purchase of new materials, etc.) to solve the problem. So from this perspective, the unit price of high-quality products is slightly higher, but it saves you considerable costs later, which is undoubtedly more cost-effective.

Whether a supplier is reliable or not includes many dimensions. For example, whether the product is delivered on time, whether the pre-sales and after-sales service of the product is good, etc.

For brands or wholesalers looking for factories, the reliability of suppliers is often reflected in some added value. For example, the supplier’s professionalism in the product, the degree of understanding of the target market, and whether it can provide relevant value to customers. The higher the professionalism of the product, the better it can help customers to carry out market promotion in the early stage or even when the business expands, and produce products that are 100% in line with the target market. The more suppliers know about the target market, the more feasible suggestions they can provide to customers based on the standard updates of the target market or market changes, so as to help customers sell products and achieve a win-win situation.

Of course, other services such as pre-sales and after-sales services are basic services, and most suppliers can do it.

When it comes to price, generally many buyers can directly see the purchase price. But as mentioned in the second point, if our suppliers can provide high-quality products, then can products with substandard quality but low prices definitely save you costs?

Most of our customers understand this truth. Because LSZH pipes and fittings are building materials, once installed, the cost of removal and maintenance is very high, especially in countries with high labor costs. Therefore, purchasing high-quality products that meet local certification standards may seem to cost more in the early stage, but it is almost maintenance-free in the later stage, and you don’t need to pay extra costs. Even if there are some unexpected situations, you can discuss with the supplier how to solve the problem reasonably.

Compared with various regional or international industry brands on the market, I think most dealers have contact.

But if you want to find a long-term cooperative brand and get a stable supply and competitive price, it is better to cooperate with a manufacturer brand, such as Ledes. The essence of a manufacturer brand is actually a factory. The factory itself has R&D, production and sales teams, and is more adept at product R&D and manufacturing. However, in addition to the marketing content that everyone sees, the manufacturer brand generally has a series of product certifications, as well as a deep understanding of various markets and countries, which can help our customers do business in the target country.

If you are a regional dealer or brand distributor, you might as well try to understand us and get more information and support.

Are you interested in learning more about thermoplastic compounds? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!