TAGS: Electrical & Electronics
Borealis and Borouge have expanded their existing portfolio of flame-retardant (FR) jacketing grades with the launch of FR8101. The new, halogen-free solution is based on metal hydrate technology and is intended to produce low voltage building cables used in highly demanding environments. FR8101 allows cable manufacturers to offer safer product having better performance and achieve increased production efficiency.
Flame-retardant Metal Hydrate Technology
The new 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 the 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 fulfill the stringent CPR cable standards in Europe when using FR8101.
The use of FR8101 eliminates issues, such as material decomposition during the extrusion process and inferior cable performance, by allowing cable makers to run production lines at high speeds. Thanks to the excellent mechanical properties offered by this grade.
Efficient Processing and Lighter Cables
When used in tandem with a crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation solution provided by Visico™/Ambicat™, the new grade is a simple way for Borealis and Borouge customers to fulfil CPR requirements without using other FR insulation or bedding. This not only allows efficient processing during production, but also lighter cables, and thus easier installation. It also helps raise manufacturers’ own sustainability standards about health and safety.
“
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.”
Source: Borealis