The Lowdown On Low-Smoke Zero-Halogen Industrial Cables

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In recent decades, several major fire accidents worldwide have involved plastics catching fire, especially in cable insulation. The danger in such incidents does not only come from the flames but also from the release of toxic fumes. A tragic example was the 1980 King’s Cross underground fire in London, where poisonous vapors contributed to the loss of lives.

Incidents like this underscored the urgent need for safer jacketing materials with higher fire resistance and lower toxicity, which eventually led to the development of low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) cables. As the name suggests, LSZH cables emit far less smoke and almost no harmful halogen gases compared to traditional options such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP).

While LSZH may appear to be the obvious choice for all applications, their use requires careful consideration. To ensure safety and performance, it is important to understand where LSZH cables are most suitable and how to apply them correctly—ideally with guidance from a trusted cable supplier in Singapore.

A Closer Look at LSZH Cables

The defining advantage of LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) insulation and jacketing lies in its halogen-free composition—free from chlorine, fluorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. This ensures that in the event of a fire, LSZH cables emit only minimal smoke and do not release corrosive or toxic gases. They also provide strong flame-retardant properties and prevent fire propagation, giving people more time to escape safely during emergencies.

Of course, these benefits come with certain trade-offs. Although the cost of LSZH cables has been gradually decreasing, they are still priced higher than traditional options. In addition, LSZH materials are generally less flexible than PVC or neoprene, making them more prone to jacket cracking. For installations—especially in colder environments—special lubricants are often recommended to reduce the risk of damage.

Why LSZH Cables Are Not Suitable for Every Application

While halogenated cables such as PVC and FEP can pose serious hazards during a fire, LSZH cables were never intended to replace them entirely. PVC- and FEP-based cables still offer unique advantages that make them better suited for certain environments—particularly open spaces where smoke and gases can quickly dissipate or in areas with minimal human occupancy.

It’s also worth noting that electrical cables are just one of many potential fire sources. With the addition of modern fire-retardant additives, today’s PVC and FEP cables contribute far less to fire spread than they once did. Beyond safety, they continue to deliver several well-established benefits, including:

Excellent electrical performance

Cost-effectiveness

Strong wet and dry electrical properties

High flexibility

Long service life

Durability and ruggedness

Resistance to chemicals and extreme temperatures

In short, LSZH cables excel in environments where human safety is the top priority and the risks of toxic smoke and fumes outweigh other considerations. However, they should not be viewed as a one-size-fits-all replacement for traditional cable materials.