In order for fire detection installers of fire resistant cable to comply with SANS 10139, suppliers had to source fire resistant cable from overseas manufacturers. Importation of this product is expensive and Cabcon Technologies (Pty) Ltd, with valuable support from the FDIA undertook to research the possibility of producing a locally manufactured fire resistant cable that would not only comply with SANS 10139 but could be manufactured at prices substantially lower than that from overseas suppliers.

Cabcon Technologies (Pty) Ltd conducted research into the availability of suitable materials, and after extensive testing was able to produce a cable that fully complied with the requirements of SANS 10139.

A sample of the cable was forwarded to the South African Bureau of Standards - Fire Testing Laboratories on the 25^th June 2010. The test was conducted using the BS EN 50200:2006 test method and was successfully concluded after the cable continued burning for 120 minutes, which complied with the maximum survival time stated in section 4.1 of BS EN 50200:2006. The above described test method is recognized in SANS 10139.

In the event of a fire, “CAB TECH FIRE” insulated fire resistant cable assures reliable circuit integrity to keep emergency evacuation systems operational even whilst the cable is burning.  “CAB TECH FIRE” fire resistant cable is used in situations where prolonged circuit integrity is required. With a minimum conductor size of 1mm² as specified in SANS 10139, “CAB TECH FIRE” fire resistant cable utilises a fire resistant tape that insulates the copper conductor. It is then insulated using a high temperature compound, screened with aluminium foil tape and thereafter sheathed using a red non-toxic halogen free compound.  The halogen free compound produces low emissions of smoke and reduces propagation of fire along the cable;  this compound complies with specification standards IEC 60092(SHF1) and SABS 1411 (Zerotox Applications). There is also a steel wire armour version available.  Cabcon Technologies (Pty) Ltd has already commenced with the production of “CAB TECH FIRE” fire resistant cable.     

“CAB TECH FIRE” fire resistant cable will give local suppliers the option of purchasing a locally produced product at a competitive price as an effective alternative to sourcing from foreign suppliers, whilst still offering the highest international fire safety standards set by the installation guidelines of SANS 10139.

Cabcon Technologies (Pty) Ltd is greatly appreciative of the assistance, guidelines, and support of the relevant industry associations in producing this product and is willing to work with any persons or organizations interested in ensuring that a South African solution remains foremost.

The cable will be marketed using the brand name “CAB TECH FIRE” under the Trade Mark “CAB TECH^TM” Underneath is a copy of the test report, copies can also be obtained from the FDIA.