Wiring and Cable Alternatives

The technology, tooling, and materials for creating halogen-free wire jacketing compounds is also readily available. In the U.S., the market for any given cable-jacketing material is not directed by personal preferences or conscious choice. Wire and cable manufacturers can only provide what is legal, by way of electrical codes, for installation by the end user.

Specific parameters for the types of cable jacketing permitted in given applications are largely dictated by the National Electrical Code (NEC), which affects electrical codes in most states and municipalities. Whereas the NEC does not specifically prohibit halogen-free wire or cable installation in any application, regulations governing the most important area of installation, plenum spaces, are dictated by kindling point standards which can only be met by halogenated materials. The kindling point of a given jacketed-material is largely determined for the NEC by the UL910 Steiner Tunnel Test, which is conducted by Underwriters Laboratories. Halogenated materials usually demonstrate a higher kindling point. However, there is no consideration for toxicity, corrosivity, smoke levels, or toxic byproducts created by burned or heated cable insulations in fire conditions within the NEC. Most studies conclude that these are the most prevalent causes of death and property damage in a fire.

One state, New York, requires that all building materials are tested for toxicity under the Pittsburgh Protocol (named for the university where it was developed), but relative toxicity of materials is not considered within the code itself.

It is important to recognize that under most circumstances where the end user is not constrained by electrical codes, such as military and public works projects, the choice is made to use halogen-free, low-smoke, jacketed materials in order to protect lives and property. The following is a representative listing of companies that are currently acting as sources for halogen-free electrical and fibre-optic wire and cable in the United States.

Distributors - Wire and Cable

Importers - Wire and Cable

Manufacturers - Wire and Cable