What is the Difference Between LSF and LSZH Cables?

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Do you know the difference between LSF and LSZH cables? If not, you&#;re not alone. A lot of people don&#;t know the difference, but it&#;s an important distinction to make when shopping for cables. Here&#;s a breakdown of the differences between LSF and LSZH cables to help you out.

Both residential and commercial buildings alike require strong and detailed protections against a number of potential incidents, such as some natural disasters, flooding or water leaking, or fire. To prevent extensive damage and keep people&#;s lives safe, buildings&#; structures come with types of equipment and materials that are produced for such purposes.

One potential event that can happen is a fire and, in case a fire happens in a building, there are a number of measures taken to protect people &#; and the use of Low-Smoke and Fume cables (LSF) or Low-Smoke Zero Halogen Cables are necessary. In this article, we will explain the purposes of both cables, as well as their difference.

Low-Smoke and Fume Cables (LSF Cable)

LSF cables are multicables made with resistant coating and modified PVC that produces less hydrogen chloride gas than regular PVC &#; although they still release about 20% of poisonous fumes when burned, depending on the manufacturer. They are a lower-cost option when compared to LSZH cables.

Low-Smoke and Fume cables are mainly used in applications that require no halogen acid gases to be released in case a fire breaks out. With less gas emitted, people seeking to leave the building safely are able to clearly visualize the exit signs available to them.

However, even with a low smoke emission, LSF cables still produce toxic gas and black smoke when they burn &#; and they can burn very fast. Therefore, it is advisable to not use them near electronic equipment, or where space for a fire escape is limited. It is best not to use them in public, areas or commercial buildings.

Low-Smoke Zero Halogen Cables (LSZH Cable)

LSZH cables &#; also known as Low-Smoke Halogen Free cables (LSHF) &#; are jacketing and insulation cables made of materials that emit low smoke in the event of a fire. They are mainly combined with non-combustible cables and can reduce the toxic elements in the event of a fire.

This indoor cabling system is commonly seen in underground tunnels and rails and used in public areas or areas that are poorly ventilated. Vehicles are a good example of applications that make use of LSZH cables &#; cars, ships, or aircraft &#; and they are also ideal for public buildings.

LSZH cables are a safer option compared to low-smoke fume cables since they emit fewer toxins and less smoke, allowing people to see more clearly &#; consequently, they are less harmful to the environment.

Also Read: What are the 4 types of network cables?

What is the Difference Between LSF and LSZH Cables?

Low-smoke and Fume cables and Low-Smoke Zero Halogen cables contradict in small details that make a big difference &#; their characteristics may not contrast much, however, the advantages of one type of cable over the other are clear.

These are the differences between LSF and LSZH cables, as pointed out: 

• Low-smoke and Fume cables are more toxic and dangerous when burned in comparison to Low-smoke Zero Halogen cables

• used in commercial buildings and public areas, whereas LSF cables are not recommended

  LSZH cables can beand public areas, whereas LSF cables are not recommended

• LSF cables are, however, still being very much used due to their cost-efficiency

Low-smoke Zero Halogen cables are safer than Low-smoke and Fume cables, more widely used and, consequently, more costly as well &#; the differences between both types of cables lie in their safety and price.

The ultimate difference between both cables is in their safety capacity. Yes, Zero Halogen cables might cost more &#; however, it is important that the people responsible for buying and installing these cables understand that LSZH cables save more lives than low-smoke and fume cables do.

Want to Know More About LSF and LSZH Cables? Contact Tevelec Today

Tevelec is a leader in the cable and wiring industry. We provide clients with a variety of products and important information about any cable or wire they need &#; including LSF and LSZH cables.

Contact us at 905-624- and our professional Tevelec team will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have about the different LSF and LSZH cables we offer.

 

Solid and comprehensive defenses against potential catastrophes, such as natural disasters, flooding, water leaks, or fire, are necessary for residential and commercial buildings. Building structures are designed with specific equipment and materials to prevent excessive damage and ensure people's safety.

One possible occurrence is a fire. Suppose a fire breaks out in a structure. In that case, many precautions are taken to safeguard people, including using LSF or LSZH cables. In this article, we shall discuss the functions of both wires, along with some differences.

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

What are LSF Cables?

LSF, short for Low Smoke and Fume, refers to a type of cable designed with materials that emit minimal smoke and fumes when exposed to fire. These cables typically contain a reduced amount of halogen elements, which are known for their potential toxicity when burned. Commonly used in various applications, LSF cables offer a balance between fire resistance and environmental considerations.

What are LSZH Cables?

LSZH, short for Low Smoke Zero Halogen, denotes a type of cable engineered with materials that produce limited smoke and do not emit halogen compounds when exposed to fire. LSZH Ethernet cables are designed to minimize the release of toxic gases and halogenated compounds, reducing health and environmental hazards during combustion.

If you'd like to know what halogen is and get more detailed info about LSZH cables, please refer to LSZH Bulk Cables: What Are They and the Application Advantages.

Differences Between LSF and LSZH Cables

Although LSF cables and LSZH cables share similarities in some aspects, their subtle differences can have significant implications. While their characteristics may not diverge drastically, one type of cable's advantages are unmistakable. Here's a comparison that covers their security level, environmental impact, and cost:

   LSF Cables  LSZH Cables  Safety Higher risk due to more toxic gases and denser smoke when burned Safer with less poisonous gases and smoke emitted in a fire  Environmental Impact Higher ecological impact due to more pollutants released when burned Lower impact with reduced emissions of halogenated compounds  Cost Lower-cost option when compared to LSZH cables More expensive due to higher safety performance

Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the most suitable cable type based on safety, regulatory, and environmental considerations.

Application Scenarios of LSF and LSZH Cables

Having understood the distinctions between LSF and LSZH cables, it's essential to consider their practical applications across various industries and environments. LSF and LSZH cables cater to distinct application scenarios based on their unique properties and characteristics.

LSF Cables

LSF cables are commonly employed in environments where reducing smoke and fume emissions is critical, including:

• Residential buildings

• Small offices

• Environments with lower safety requirements

LSZH Cables

LSZH network cables, being halogen-free, are preferred in settings where stringent safety regulations or heightened environmental concerns prevail, including:

• Commercial edifices

• Data centers

• Public areas (e.g., malls, airports, train stations)

• Aerospace industry

• Underground transportation systems

In environments where reducing smoke and fume emissions is critical, LSF cables are often the choice. However, for settings with stringent safety regulations or heightened environmental concerns, FS's LSZH cables are the preferred option. For instance, in commercial edifices, data centers, and public areas, using FS's LSZH cables ensures a safer environment with fewer toxic gas emissions, even in a fire.

Conclusion

Choosing LSF and LSZH cables impacts building safety and environmental concerns. LSF cables are suitable for environments with lower safety requirements, while LSZH cables are preferred in settings where high safety standards and environmental considerations are crucial. This understanding aids in optimal selection for safety and regulatory compliance in building infrastructure.

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