Fireproofing and its importance
– Fireproofing is meant to keep cables operational during a fire.
– Cable coating with a fire retardant lowers the spread of flame.
– Enclosures constructed of fire resistive materials can also be used.
– Fireproofing is important for cable trays and electrical conduit.
– Fireproofing helps meet local building code requirements.
Testing and certification standards
– Testing in Canada is in accordance with ULC-S101.
– Fire resistive cables can be tested to UL 2196.
– Enclosures for non-fire resistive cables can be tested to UL 1724.
– API 2218 standards are used for addressing hydrocarbon fires.
– Different countries have their own testing standards.
Shaft wall systems for cable protection
– Fire resistive shaft wall systems can protect cables.
– These systems are similar to vertical and horizontal enclosures.
– They are used to enclose cables and prevent fire spread.
– Shaft wall systems are commonly used in buildings.
– They help meet fire safety requirements.
Current test methods for fire resistance
– Germany uses DIN4102 for testing enclosures and cables.
– North America follows UL1724 and UL2196 testing standards.
– These tests ensure the fire resistance of cables and enclosures.
– Different methods are used in different regions.
– Testing is important for ensuring fire safety.
Considerations for cladding and wrapping
– Weight of wrap systems must be included in calculations.
– Fireproofing of the hanging system should be considered.
– Regular maintenance is needed for cladding and wraps.
– Cladding and wraps are not load-bearing and can be damaged.
– Fireproofing must be considered for the entire system, including termination points and junction boxes. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circuit_integrity
Circuit integrity is how little can a fire affect an electrical circuit's operation. It is a form of fire-resistance rating. Circuit integrity is achieved via passive fire protection means, which are subject to listing and approval use and compliance. Alternatively, cable construction and materials can achieve fire-resistance ratings on their own such as mineral-insulated copper-clad cable, or MI cable.
