Selecting the Right Cabling

Key Aspects for Safety and Performance

In this era where networks and cabling play an indispensable role in connectivity and the operation of various infrastructures, it is imperative to recognize that the proper selection and installation of cabling also contributes significantly to fire prevention, just as much as the implementation of smoke detection systems, regular maintenance of electrical equipment, and the correct management of flammable materials, for example.

In any structured cabling project, safety occupies a central role. Fiber optic and copper cables are vital components of network infrastructure; however, their level of flammability plays a crucial role in overall safety. For this reason, when designing solutions, it is essential to consider this fundamental aspect.

The quality and correct installation of these cables significantly reduce risk, ensuring the protection of those who frequent these spaces. Furthermore, proper maintenance of internal cables guarantees service continuity, preventing situations that could endanger safety and cause disruption in high-traffic locations.

For all these reasons, selecting the right cable according to the needs of the installation environment and understanding flammability characteristics is an indispensable measure to ensure the safety and optimal performance of the system. In this article, I aim to delve into the different types of cabling according to the installation environment.

Office and Residential Environments

Metallic (CM) or optical (COG) cables are for general use and are suitable for vertical application in heavily occupied conduits, in locations without forced airflow, in installations within the same environment, or in locations with similar fire propagation conditions. For these cables, vertical flame propagation is evaluated according to the "Vertical-Tray Flame Test" method of UL 1685, and the gases generated during combustion and smoke density are not evaluated.

Commercial and Critical Data Environments

Metallic (CMR) or optical (COR) cables, of the "riser" type, are suitable for vertical application in elevator shafts, in installations where cables span more than one floor, in locations without forced airflow, in conduits with low occupancy, or in locations with similar fire propagation conditions. For cables of this classification, vertical flame propagation is evaluated according to the UL 1666 test method, and the gases generated during combustion and smoke density are not evaluated.

Data Centers and Telecommunications

These are suitable for horizontal application, in confined spaces (between floors, ceilings, cable trays, etc.), with or without forced airflow, or in locations with similar fire propagation conditions. To be classified as CMP/COP, internal cables must be evaluated for flame propagation and smoke density in accordance with NFPA 262 or UL 910 standards.

Environments Requiring Low Smoke and Corrosive Gas Emissions

In a fire, the spread of flames can be highly detrimental to infrastructure or buildings, but smoke, which contains toxic gases, is what causes the most harm to people. Damage to buildings is reversible, but harm to people often is not. In an effort to increase personal safety during a fire, LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) materials have been developed that produce low smoke emissions and generate no toxic gases during combustion. This reduces the main risk factors for people, as smoke hinders evacuation from the area and the toxic gases generated can cause asphyxiation, depending on the duration of exposure. LSZH cables must meet the flame retardancy characteristics of IEC 60332-1 or IEC 60332-3 cables, as well as the smoke density and gas toxicity requirements during combustion. They are recommended for locations with high concentrations or circulation of people, such as commercial buildings, train stations, subway systems, hospitals, and airports, among others.

At Isbel, we are here to assist you in evaluating the condition of your current installation's cabling or in designing your future project.

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