Introduction

Fire alarm cables are essential components of any fire alarm system, providing a reliable connection and power supply to the system's components. They must adhere to specific standards and certifications to ensure performance and safety. This article outlines the specifications and parameters for fire alarm cables, highlighting Aston Cable Company's solutions for modern fire safety systems.

General Specifications for Fire Alarm Cables

Fire alarm cables must meet rigorous safety and performance standards to be fit for use. Generally, they need to be certified by organizations such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or other relevant safety bodies. Specific characteristics include:

• Conductor Material: Typically made from copper or tinned copper to ensure good conductivity and durability.
• Insulation: Fire-resistant coatings, such as PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen), are used to minimize smoke and toxic gas emission during a fire.
• Shielding: Options include overall shielding or individual pair shielding to prevent electromagnetic interference.
• Jacket: Outer coverings made of materials like PVC, LSZH, or thermoplastic are used depending on the installation environment.
• Ratings: Compliance with standards such as UL 1424, UL 444 for CMR/CL2R ratings, and UL 1666 for riser-rated cables.
• Color Code: Typically red for high visibility and quick identification in emergencies.

Detailed Parameters

The following parameters provide in-depth details necessary for selecting appropriate fire alarm cables:

• Operating Temperature Range: Generally between -20°C to 75°C.
• Voltage Rating: Usually rated for 300V to 600V applications.
• Flame Test Ratings: Must pass tests such as the VW-1 Vertical Flame Test.
• Conductor Size: Commonly ranges from 18 AWG to 12 AWG.
• Resistance: Normally below 10 ohms per kilometer at 20°C for 18 AWG.
• Capacitance: Generally low values, approximately 30 pF/ft between conductors.
• Humidity and Moisture Resistance: Ensures functionality in damp or humid conditions.

Aston Cable Company Solutions

Aston Cable Company presents a comprehensive range of fire alarm cables designed with cutting-edge technology and materials:

• AstonFIRE LSZH Series: Equipped with Low Smoke Zero Halogen jackets, these cables offer minimal smoke and halogen emissions, ideal for confined spaces.
• AstonFLEX Shielded Cables: Provide extra protection against interference and are perfect for sensitive installations demanding high signal integrity.
• AstonPRO High-Temperature Cables: Crafted to withstand temperatures up to 105°C for high-temperature environments.
• AstonEco Green Line: Manufactured with eco-friendly materials, compliant with European environmental standards.

References

1. NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC) 2023 Edition.
2. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standards for Safety - UL 1424.
3. British Standards Institute (BSI) - BS 5839: Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings.
4. International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) - IEC 60332: Tests on electric and optical fiber cables under fire conditions.
5. ASTM International - ASTM E84: Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials.