LSF Cable (Low Smoke & Fume Cable)
LSF cable is different than LSZH Cable, it is made up of a modified PVC compound and produces HCL gas and black smoke when burning, but about 80% less than PVC cable.
Some points to remember about these cables are:
- These cables are often purchased to cut costs or through confusion with LSZH cables. They should be considered to be a small improvement over PVC cables.
- These cables are not recommended for public, large commercial buildings, near sensitive electronic equipment, and where escape is limited in case of fire.
LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) Cables (LS0H – LSHF – 0HLS – LSNH)
LSZH – Low Smoke Zero (0) Halogen
LSHF – Low Smoke Halogen Free
LS0H – Low Smoke Zero (0) Halogen
0HLS – Zero (0) Halogen Low Smoke
ZHLS – Zero (0) Halogen Low Smoke
LSNH – Low Smoke No Halogen
LSHF cables are made up of halogen-free compounds that are good fire retardants but emit less than 0.5% hydrogen chloride gas and smoke when burnt. In case of fire, these cables produce small amounts of light grey smoke and HCL gas which greatly increases the chances of escape from populated areas. There’s no PVC in these cables, hence no harmful fumes or dense black smoke are given off in case of fire.
Some points to remember about LSHF cables are:
- They are ideal for public buildings like airports and railway stations, computer rooms, and datacentres, where escape is limited and fire safety is critical.
- They emit <0.5 % of HCL gas thus providing a safer environment in the event of a fire.
- The low smoke generation ensures evacuation routes and signage remain visible during a fire.
