Understanding LSZH Cables
What is LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen)?
Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH), also known as Low Smoke Free of Halogen (LSOH, LS0H, LSFH, OHLS, ZHFR), refers to cable jacketing materials that emit minimal smoke and no halogen gases when exposed to high heat. These materials are either thermoplastic or thermoset compounds, designed to ensure safety and sustainability.
Safety Features of LSZH Cables
- Low Smoke Emission: LSZH cables produce significantly less smoke compared to traditional PVC cables. This enhances visibility during fires, aiding in safe evacuation.
- Non-Toxic: During combustion, LSZH cables do not release toxic halogen gases such as chlorine, fluorine, and bromine, reducing the risk of inhaling harmful fumes.
- Non-Corrosive: LSZH cables do not emit corrosive gases, protecting electronic equipment from damage and maintaining the integrity of electrical systems.
Applications of LSZH Cables
- Poorly Ventilated Areas: Ideal for use in confined spaces such as aircraft, rail carriages, tanks, submarines, and ships.
- Public Transportation and Infrastructure: Extensively used in the rail industry, especially in tunnel systems where ventilation is limited.
- Nuclear Facilities: Preferred in nuclear plants due to their non-toxic and non-corrosive properties, reducing the risk of gas accumulation and damage to sensitive equipment.
- Offshore and Subsea Installations: Used in environments where fire safety is critical and evacuation routes are limited.
Advantages Over PVC Cables
- Enhanced Fire Safety: LSZH cables' low smoke and non-toxic emission features make them safer in the event of a fire.
- Environmental Sustainability: Free of harmful halogenated chemicals, making them more environmentally friendly.
- Durability: The absence of corrosive gases protects electronic equipment and infrastructure from damage during fires.
Cost and Flexibility
- Higher Cost: LSZH cables are generally more expensive than PVC cables due to their enhanced safety features.
- Less Flexible: LSZH cables are more rigid compared to PVC cables, which can be a consideration in installation.
Where to Buy LSZH Cables
Access Communications offers a range of LSZH cables, including Cat6a patch cables and UTP LAN cables. We provide options for custom lengths, colours, and customer-branded printing.
LSZH cables are an essential choice for applications where fire safety, low smoke emission, and non-toxicity are critical. Their use in confined and high-risk environments makes them indispensable in enhancing overall safety and protecting both people and equipment.
Check out our Cat6a LSZH bulk cable range or our Cat6a S/FTP LSZH patch cables.