FR8101 – raising the bar for fire safety standards with new flame-retardant solution: Halogen-free grade FR8101 enhances safety of low voltage cables used in highly demanding environments
Portfolio expansion of flame-retardant jacketing grades
FR8101 is based on a highly flame-retardant metal hydrate technology. In the event of a fire, the material releases water to reduce the intensity of the flames. Jacketing made with FR8101 is resistant to the flaming droplets which often cause fire to spread within buildings where cables are installed inside walls and roofs. By retaining its shape even in intense heat, FR8101 jacketing stays on the cable, even if the cable is burnt. In fact, depending on the type of construction, FR8101 can even earn the best possible rating of “d0” in the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) Euroclass scale for flaming droplets. This highest level of flame retardancy makes it possible for cable industry partners to fulfil the stringent CPR cable standards in Europe when using FR8101.
Up until now, cable manufacturers have been bound by certain limitations when using conventional halogen-free flame-retardant (HFFR) cable compounds. For example, material decomposition during the extrusion process can result in lower production speeds and inferior cable performance. The use of FR8101 eliminates these issues altogether by allowing cable makers to run production lines at high speeds thanks to the excellent mechanical properties offered by this grade.
When used in tandem with a crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation solution provided by Visico™/Ambicat™, the new grade is a simple way to fulfil CPR requirements without having to use other FR insulation or bedding.
“The launch of FR8101 provides an innovative and more effective solution that addresses important industry challenges,” explains Bart Verheule, Borealis Head of Marketing, Energy. “Borealis and Borouge are committed to bringing energy all around by supplying new ways for our partners to make safer and more sustainable cables. This in turn helps raise standards in health and safety for everyone.”
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