In the Ethernet cables industry, several categories and classes cater to various needs. Of such concerns, the fire rated Ethernet cable has become a critical consideration for many industries and applications. Two major varieties of fire rated Ethernet cables are CMP (Communications Multipurpose Plenum) and LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen). The above information will help you to pick the right fire rated ethernet cable for your environment and its needs as well as the advantages and disadvantages between the two.
What is a Fire Rated Ethernet Cable?
A fire rated Ethernet cable is a kind of Ethernet cable capable of withstanding fire by preventing flame spread and decreasing the smoke and toxic fumes outcome. These cables are necessary for the regions that are concerned with fire safety because the mentioned objects are impermissible in places such as data centers, office buildings, schools, hospitals, etc. Following the best practice fire safety standards, fire rated Ethernet cables protect the information technology infrastructure and the lives of the people in the event of a fire.
What is CMP?
CMP, in this case, stands for Communications Multipurpose Plenum and is a type of fire rated Ethernet cable which is meant for use in plenum spaces. These areas are normally the parts of a building which is found above the drop ceiling or below the raised floor for the purpose of airflow for the HVAC systems.
Fire Resistance
CMP cables are made of materials that have met certain criteria in terms of fire safety and the jacket of the fire rated ethernet cable is usually made of fluorinated ethylene polymer (FEP) or any material that has the capability of being self-extinguishing and not spread flame. This makes CMP cables most suitable for places where there is a lot of airflow and any fire could spread very fast.
Smoke and Toxicity
Besides being flame retardant, the smoke output of CMP cables is also low while the hazardous gases emission is also low in case of fire. This enhances visibility during evacuation and also minimizes the chances of inhaling poisonous fumes hence very suitable for high-density public places.
Applications
Office buildings
Data centers
Hospitals
Schools
Due to low smoke output and fire rated ethernet cable buildings, building codes may require the use of CMP cables in plenum spaces.
What is LSZH?
The other type of fire rated Ethernet cable is the LSZH which means Low Smoke Zero Halogen. This type of cable is another type of fire rated Ethernet cable that is used to reduce the formation of smoke and release of toxic gases during burning. The difference between CMP cables and LSZH cables is that the latter aims at eliminating the formation of halogens which are chemicals such as chlorine and fluorine that may lead to the formation of toxic fumes when burnt.
Fire Resistance
This fire rated ethernet cable is flame retardant but it may not have the same level of fire resistance as the CMP cable. However, they perform well in the aspect of the smoke and toxic gas emission which makes them safer for use in areas which are of high concern with the safety of people.
Smoke and Toxicity
The presence of halogen in LSZH cables means that when the fire rated ethernet cables are exposed to fire, the smoke that is given out is less likely to be corrosive. This characteristic is quite useful in confined spaces or areas with delicate electronic devices as the less smoke and toxicity levels affect both people and devices.
Applications
Such fire rated ethernet cables are most often applied in European countries where strict fire safety regulations stipulate the usage of low smoke and halogen-free cables.
Key Differences Between CMP and LSZH Fire Rated Ethernet Cables
Fire Resistance
CMP: It provides fire rated and plenum-rated cables which are useful where there is a possibility of air circulation and fire spread.
LSZH: It has a sufficient fire rating but its main aim is to reduce the smoke and the release of halogens.
Smoke and Toxicity
CMP: It gives off a low level of smoke and toxic fumes but may still contain halogens in it.
LSZH: It gives off a lot of smoke and is made of materials that contain halogen, which if inhaled can be poisonous.
Material Composition
Cost
CMP: It is quite expensive as compared to other cables due to its features and the type of material used in construction.
LSZH: It is relatively cheaper as compared to the other cables but may need some consideration on the areas to be installed.
Regulatory Requirements
CMP: It is widely used and recommended for use in the plenum spaces in many countries, especially in North America.
LSZH: These are preferred or required in applications where low smoke and toxicity an important factors, especially in the European markets.
Choosing the Right Fire Rated Ethernet Cable
When deciding between CMP and LSZH fire rated Ethernet cables, consider the following factors: When deciding between CMP and LSZH fire rated Ethernet cables, consider the following factors:
Installation Environment:
If the fire rated ethernet cable is to be pulled through plenum spaces where there is air return then use CMP cables.
If the cable is to be used in enclosed spaces or if there are strict restrictions on the amount of smoke that is allowed to be emitted then LSZH cables should be used.
Regulatory Compliance:
Make sure that the cable is permitted by the local building codes and meets the necessary fire safety measures.
Cost Considerations:
Although the CMP cables may be expensive as compared to the others, they may be required by the law in certain places.
Human Safety:
It is therefore advisable to use LSZH cables where people are many and or where the utmost concern is on minimizing the effects of toxicity.
Equipment Protection:
Hence in areas where there are sensitive electronic devices LSZH cables should be used to avoid damaging the devices by the corrosive smoke.
Advances in Fire Rated Ethernet Cable Technology
The technology used in the production of fire rated Ethernet cables is continuously being developed which leads to the appearance of new materials and design improvements that increase safety and effectiveness.
The manufacturers are also working on hybrid models that incorporate both the CMP and LSZH technologies that ether are known to offer fire retardant features as well as low smoke and low toxicity. Also, there have been improvements in the fire rated ethernet cable shielding and insulation which enhance the data transmission without putting a strain on safety.
CMP and LSZH: Which one to choose?
The differences between the two fire rated Ethernet cables: CMP and LSZH makes it essential for one to understand which one suits their needs. While the CMP cables are ideal for plenum spaces because they offer the best fire resistance, the LSZH cables are ideal where there is a need to minimize smoke and toxicity thus making them safer to use in enclosed spaces. Comparing your particular needs and turning to the local regulations will help you find the right balance between the performance, safety, and cost of the fire rated Ethernet cable system.
Fire rated Ethernet cables are an important part of modern networking, which not only guarantees reliable data transmission but also increases safety in case of fire. Whether you select CMP or LSZH, installing the best fire rated Ethernet cable will shield your investment as well as the lives of the people surrounding it.
A fire rated Ethernet cable is a kind of Ethernet cable capable of withstanding fire by preventing flame spread and decreasing the smoke and toxic fumes outcome.
CMP stands for Communications Multipurpose Plenum and is a type of fire rated Ethernet cable which is meant for use in plenum spaces. These areas are normally the parts of a building which is found above the drop ceiling or below the raised floor for the purpose of airflow for the HVAC systems.
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