Fire Cables
- LPCB Certified
- Range of Cores & Sizes
- 25 Year Warranty
Fire cable is used for fire alarm systems and emergency lighting circuits. It is protected by a construction that allows the cable to remain intact for a given amount of time in the event of a fire, supplying power to the integral systems that help to make people aware of the danger and evacuate the building safely.
Fire resistant cable features a LSZH (low smoke zero halogen) sheath, which will produce minimal smoke and no harmful gases when burned, enabling safe evacuation and protecting the health of emergency crews who may need to enter the building. In comparison, a standard PVC sheath would produce thick black smoke and harmful gases, which could cause harm to evacuees and emergency crews, and therefore isn’t used for fire cable sheathing.
Our range of fire cable includes both enhanced (FR120) and standard (FR30) types. These cables are supplied on robust plywood reels in 100m, 200m, and 500m. Cut to length options may also be available, and we recommend contacting your account manager to discuss your requirements.
It’s important to note that plastic clips or ties of any kind should never be used as main supports in systems featuring fire rated cable. We supply a wide range of accessories to complement our fire cable range, including copper P clips, saddles, glands, and stainless-steel cable ties.
The benefits of using our range of fire cables include:
- Allows for normal operation in the event of a fire for at least 30 minutes
- Our enhanced range provides circuit integrity for 120 minutes
- High resistance to cutting, abrasion, and crush
- High quality & competitively priced
- Easy installation and termination
- Durable & flexible
- 25 Year Warranty
- LPCB Certified
- Wide range of cores & sizes available
If you have any questions about our range of fire rated cable or need any help, click here to talk to a member of our team.
What is Fire Resistant Cable Used For?
A protective sheath covers fire resistant cable, preventing the spread of flames while decreasing the quantity of smoke and harmful gases released in the case of combustion. As a result, heat resistant cable is commonly used in wiring installations that require insulation from high temperatures as well as good electromagnetic interference protection.Fire Resistant (FR) - cables are made to keep crucial emergency services operating during a fire. They are perfect for:Alarm circuits Fire detection Emergency lighting system Where twisted pairs or metallic screen are not needed.They have two categories:Class A – can be in 950 ℃ ~ 1000 ℃ flame rated voltage to endure burning for a minimum of 90 minutes, with no breaks in the cable Class B – can be in 750 ℃ ~ 800 ℃ flame rated voltage to endure burning for a minimum of 90 minutes, with no breaks in the cable Mineral Insulated CableMineral Insulated Cable (MICC) is utilised in sectors such as alarm circuits, emergency lights, and sprinkler systems to provide circuit integrity. MI cabling has high fire resistance capabilities and can function for an extended period at temperatures up to 250 °C, but it is also:Explosion proof High corrosion resistance High current carrying capacity Radiation resistance Lightweight and smokeless Long lifespan Can a Fire Cable be Exposed?To reduce the chance of mechanical damage, avoid putting fire cables in the same conduit as other utility wires. Extensive runs of fire alarm wires near high current power lines should be avoided wherever possible.Fire Cable Should:Be segregated from all other services. Not share the same conduit. Use a separate compartment if common trunking is used. Avoid running alongside high current power lines. Avoid running adjacent to lightning conductors. Avoid electromagnetic interference from 'extra low voltage (240V) circuits'. What Voltage is Fire Cable?A fire cable is one of the most common low voltage devices on the market today. They are often seen in various residential and business sectors.A regular fire cable can be rated between 300V and 500V. Most modern fire alarm systems are measured at 24 volts.Find a wholesaler to shop our range of fire cables!
An Overview of Fire Cables
In the event of a fire, the situation can quickly get out of control. After a short period, typically no more than 30 seconds, the fire propagates rapidly, producing a cloud of toxic black smoke that also prevents visibility. After roughly five minutes, the heat of the fire is strong enough to ignite surrounding objects.This undoubtedly creates challenges, as the occupants of the building need to evacuate, yet the difficulty increases by the second. The severity increases for larger buildings, especially public facilities, such as hospitals, shopping centres, stadiums, and public transport hubs.This means that all buildings must have:Fire detection. Fire alarms. Fire suppression systems. Emergency escape lighting systems. (and aim to have:) Security cameras and video links. The protection systems often include data cables to provide communication between sensors, controllers, building management or CCTV monitors.What Does A Fire Alarm Cable Do?Fire cables are intended to work during a fire and not fail in the case of high temperatures being applied to them.These cables are providing power and data to alarm sounders and visual fire signals to guarantee that individuals in all regions of the building may safely leave.What Cable is Used for a Fire Alarm?Any cable that is compliant with British Standard BS 5839-1, which addresses the operation of fire protection systems, such as:Smoke control. Emergency lighting. Automatic door Fire alarm systems. Voice alarm systems. Fire extinguishing systems. and any related safety measures, such as:Elevator grounding. Valve closing. or Air handling shutdowns. Does a Fire Alarm Cable Have to be Red?No, the fire alarm wire that is compliant in BS 5839-1 does not have to be red, but it must be a distinct colour from other forms of electrical wiring within the building. Although, it is an industry norm to not alter the colour of the fire alarm wires.If a different cable colour is utilised, the customer should agree on a variation as part of the design before installation.What is the Difference Between Fire-Rated and Fire-Resistant Cable?Flame Rated or Flame Retardant refers to cables that do not continue to work during a fire but are meant to prevent flame spread, propagation, smoke evolution, acidic/corrosive gas evolution, and burning droplets.Fire Resistant cables are those that are meant to offer continuous power/signal supply for safety installations while also preventing the passage of fire for a certain period.What is an Enhanced Fire Cable?All cables are intended to guarantee that the connectivity between fire alarm systems functions properly for an acceptable amount of time.The BS 5389-1 cable standard distinguishes between 'Standard' and 'Enhanced' grade cables, which define the amount of fire resistance that the cables provide.Enhanced:The 'Enhanced' grade is intended for usage in situations where the fire detection and alarm systems need to enable evacuation for a longer period than the 'Standard' grade fire-resistant cables provide during a fire.Standard:In addition to meeting the requirements of BS 5839-1, Standard fire performance cables must obtain a class of at least PH30 when tested in line with EN 50200. They must also keep the circuit running.Additionally, enhanced fire-resistant cables are recommended for the following applications:In un-sprinkled buildings (or areas) when the fire plan calls for occupant evacuation in four or more stages. Buildings that are taller than 30 metres that are not sprinkled. In un-sprinkled premises and sites where a fire in one place may harm vital signal route cables associated with areas remote from the fire, and where it is anticipated that humans may stay in occupancy during the fire. In any situation where the designer, specifier, or regulatory body believes that the use of Enhanced fire-resistant cables is needed based on a fire risk assessment. Does a Fire Alarm Cable Need to be in Conduit?To minimise mechanical damage, you should aim to not include fire alarm wires in the same conduit as other utility cables.There are instances where fire alarm cables may be put in the same conduit as other service cables, however; a separate compartment should be created specifically for the fire alarm wires.The trunking partition should be sturdy, stiff, and continuous. The guideline is designed to prevent harm to the fire alarm cables when other circuits are modified (for example, when other cables are stripped out or new cables are drawn in.)It may not always be practical to provide a separate conduit, trunking, or compartment for fire alarm wires in some situations, such as when installing a new fire alarm system in an existing but old structure.In such circumstances, a deviation from the standard's guidelines should be indicated in the system's certification. Where cable segregation is not reasonably possible, care must be taken to prevent electromagnetic interference from other cables from disrupting the fire alarm circuits.
Core Materials Guide
In the majority of cases, the electrical cabling around your home or business will contain pure copper, or at least mostly copper wire.The properties of these cables can vary due to the sheathing or insulation used, but cables can also perform differently when their cores are made from alternative metals.Here are some of the most common core materials available.Pure Metal CoresCopperCopper is one of the highest standard materials used for electrical conductors. Although not quite as conductive as silver, copper is a far more economical and widely supplied material, making it the standard for most cabling applications.Sometimes, copper can be hard to solder unless a ‘flux’ is used – this is a compound used in the soldering process that cleans the surface in preparation for bonding. Using a flux can result in corrosive residues being left behind, so in some cases, copper will be tinned or plated to avoid this – see more about copper-clad cables below.Pure copper, however, is the gold standard of conduction and is suited for pressure terminations too. Copper is also incredibly malleable and can be bent into any shape or direction - although the sheathing material used can have limitations on this ability.AluminiumAluminium is favoured for cable conductors due to its lightweight nature. It is slightly less conductive than copper, but when balancing this with its weight, performs on a similar level.Aluminium is also relatively inexpensive, but cannot be soldered easily, so is often plated with copper to gain the benefits of both materials in a single wire.SilverSilver is an incredibly good conductor, better than copper in fact. It is, however, substantially more expensive. Silver-plated wire is more common, as it utilises the conductive benefits of silver and allows the wire to operate over a wide temperature range (from -65°C to 200°C).There are a few niche uses where silver’s extremely low resistance is a key element – scientific instruments and cryogenics may utilise pure silver conductors for this reason.GoldGold is a common form of plating for brass connector pins – though it’s not that commonly used for cables due to the expense of the materials.Easily soldered, gold has good corrosion resistance. It’s not as good a conductor as copper and silver, but resists oxidation far better, which is why it is used as a plated layer to protect some inner components.Tinned CableTin is generally not used on its own as a cable conductor, but is used as corrosion protection for copper without affecting its conductivity. Coating a copper cable in tin can also make it far easier to solder.Nickel-PlatedNickel-plated wire also operates in extreme conditions over a wide temperature range. If the nickel-plating is thick, it can withstand temperatures up to 750°C. Nickel also acts as an excellent layer of corrosion resistance.Metal Clad CoresCopper Clad AluminiumCopper clad aluminium cable is aluminium cable plated in copper. This makes the cable less expensive than pure copper, but lighter too, as aluminium in itself is an incredibly lightweight material.However, CCA cable allows the aluminium element to gain more electrical conductivity when combining this with copper, as well as adding to the strength of pure aluminium.Copper Clad SteelCopper clad steel is comprised of a steel wire plated with copper. As copper is more expensive than steel, it allows the cable to combine the benefits of both materials for a lower price.CCS cable is not quite as conductive as pure copper, but this level of conductivity is not needed in every application. Copper clad steel wire has double the mechanical strength of solid copper wire, giving it longevity in harsher environments and under frequent movement.For more information about our range of cables, get in touch with our friendly team.
Braiding vs Screening vs Shielding
Cables use screening and shielding to protect the cable and add resistance to interference from other cables or devices.Many people often get confused between braiding, shielding, screening and other terms, so we’ve made a handy guide to what all of these types of protection mean! Shielding or Screening?Shielding and screening are the same! They are both a protective layer added over the conductors to protect the cable from, or prevent it from causing, electrical interference. Disturbance can cause lower quality signal or data loss and can therefore result in equipment failure, therefore it is essential to choose the right screening for the right purpose.Shielding and screening come in many different forms, each with a specific purpose.Types of ShieldingBraidingBraiding is when cables are woven in a lattice of thin tin or copper wire, looking like a braid as the name suggests.The coverage of the braid (often referred to as the density) depends on the number of strands or wires within each plait. It also depends on the thickness of the braid strands. The diameter of the braid wires also specifies the level of damage the cable can withstand.Braiding is used for mechanical protection against any electrical or electromagnetic interference, as well as to add strength to the cable. Braiding is usually applied either over the inner sheath if there is one, or directly over the core bundle.Braiding can be applied in different materials for very specific purposes:Copper - used for screening against electromagnetic interference Steel - used for mechanical protection Glass or Ceramic fibres - used for high temperature environments Rayon - used for torsional strength Although braided shielding can be more costly and time consuming to produce, it is flexible and versatile, and performs well at all frequency types.FoilingFoil screening involves wrapping the cable cores in aluminium or polyester laminated tape to increase durability. The foils must be in contact with a bare wire to act as an earthing point.Foil shielding can offer up to 100% coverage and can withstand high-frequency applications. It's also quick, cost-effective and easy to produce due to its lightweight nature.However it is slightly less durable than traditional braiding, so it is not recommended to use foil shielding in areas where a lot of flex is needed.ArmouringArmouring is not a form of screening, but it is a common method of protection for cables. It is often constructed by winding galvanised steel wires over the cable in the form of a spiral.Armouring is often used when cables are to be laid in an outside environment - it prevents vermin and termites from attacking and damaging the cable.Though armoured cable can be less flexible and harder to terminate, there is no better way to protect a cable from this sort of interference.For more information about cable screening, get in touch with our friendly team, or shop our wide range of cables today.
Sheathing Material Guide
With a wide range of cable sheathing options available, it’s hard to know which is best for your installation.A range of factors from population density, temperature and flexibility can all impact your choice of cable.Take a look at our guide and find out all the benefits and drawbacks of the most common sheath materials on the market! PVCPVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is one of the most common sheathing options for cables. It’s low-cost to manufacture, as well as offering durability, flexibility and resistance to oil and water.PVC is suitable only for indoor use as it is vulnerable to UV light and can become brittle when exposed to bright sunlight. It gives off harmful halogen gases when burned, so is not suitable for densely populated buildings or in any situation where it may be exposed to fire.PEPE (polyethylene) is an excellent choice for outdoor cable installations, such as those involving direct burial. When UV stabilised, the material provides great resistance to moisture and extreme weather.PE is tough and rigid in comparison to other sheathing counterparts, and it does not burn but melts and reforms when cool, making it a safer option too. PE sheathing is commonly used for data transmission cables.RubberRubber is one of the most popular material choices for sheathing. It is waterproof, flexible and chemically resistant.Since rubber is more of a high-cost material, sometimes synthetic rubber compounds are used to mimic the effect without such a high price.Rubber sheathing is used when an installation requires water resistance and flexibility in extreme temperatures.LSFLSF stands for ‘Low Smoke and Fume’. This material is a modified PVC material that produces less gas and smoke than traditional PVC when the polymer is burnt.LSF sheathed cables do not meet the highest standard of fire safety (see LSZH cables) as they can still emit up to 22% Hydrogen Chloride gas, however they do meet further standards than standard PVC sheathing would (up to 28%).LSZHLSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables are also known as ‘LS0H’ and ‘0HLS’ (Zero Halogen Low Smoke) are similar to PVC but behave differently in the event of exposure to fire.The main feature of these cables is that they do not release large amounts of toxic fumes or smoke when burned. Their fire retardance is much higher, making them often used in commercial or densely populated buildings due to their better quality and safety elements – anything they release is not harmful to humans when burned. This also means they conform to higher fire regulations than many other cables.SiliconeSilicone is a sheathing material that can operate from –50 to 180 degrees Celsius. It is resistant to heat, chemicals and even bacteria growth, making is a great choice for installations in food or medical environments.Silicone boasts UV resistance and does not produce any harmful smoke or gases when burned.This sheathing material is more expensive than most to produce and has limited options for recycling at its end of life, which doesn’t make it the best choice for everyday cabling. However, for specialist applications, its benefits cannot be beaten.PURPUR stands for polyurethane, a material that offers great chemical and mechanical resistance.PUR can be used in temperatures between –40 and 125 degrees Celsius. Some blends can be halogen free and flame retardant, but this depends entirely on the specific make up.Much like silicone, the material is resistant to bacteria growth and can therefore be used in food or medical-grade installations.PTFEPTFE, or Teflon, is a material used in applications that involve extreme temperatures or corrosive environments.Its benefits are that the material is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, as well as being flexible and non-flammable, making it a safe option for many installations.PTFE boasts thermal, chemical and electrical resistance. It can operate between –75 degrees Celsius and up to 200 degrees Celsius. It is also unaffected by most fuels, oils and fluids.FEPFEP is a fluoropolymer incredibly similar to PTFE, with similar benefits such as the ability to operate in extreme temperatures and low chemical reactivity.NeopreneNeoprene is a form of synthetic rubber. The sheathing material provides oil and chemical resistance, as well as strength and flexibility at lower temperatures.NylonNylon is an incredibly abrasive and chemically resistant material for sheathing, though less flexible that its counterparts.For more help or information regarding sheathing, get in touch with our team!
The Backbone of Modern Military Technology
What is the Function of Defence Standard Cables?In modern warfare, where precision, speed, and reliability are crucial, the importance of Defence Standard Cables cannot be denied.These crucial components serve as the lifelines that connect and power various military technologies, enabling seamless communication, data transmission, and control.Defence standard cables have gone above their conventional role to act as enablers of the advanced functionalities of today’s Military. Defence Cables: Unseen Heroes of Communication SystemsCommunication is the foundation of military operations, and Defence Standard Cables ensure the effectiveness.Where instant and secure communication makes all the difference, Defence Standard Cables provide the basis for:Encrypted transmissions - Decoding information that only authorised parties with the appropriate decryption key can understand and decipher the original message. Real-time data sharing - Exchange of information between individuals, devices, or systems. Battlefield coordination - Organised management of military operations, where various units, teams, and assets work together to achieve strategic objectives. Defence Cables facilitate the flow of information, helping commanders make informed decisions. Wiring the Skies: Defence Cables in Radar SystemsRadar systems are the eyes of the military, detecting and tracking threats across a vast range of distances.Behind the scenes, Defence Standard Cables enable the intricate interplay of electromagnetic waves and signals that power the Radar Systems.Defence cables ensure low signal loss, minimal interference, and high data integrity. This allows radar operators to identify and respond to potential threats swiftly and accurately. UAVs: The Strength of Defence Standard CablesUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, have changed modern warfare with their adaptability and strategic capabilities.Defence Cables play a crucial role in UAVs, connecting control stations with airborne platforms, sensor data, and real-time video streaming.The reliability and robustness of these cables are paramount, ensuring that UAVs can operate seamlessly even in challenging environments. Naval Warfare and Subsea Defence CablesIn Naval Warfare, where the Maritime Domain presents unique challenges, Defence Standard Cables demonstrate their resilience.These cables serve as the core of naval vessels, connecting complex systems ranging from communication networks to propulsion and weapon systems.Furthermore, they extend to underwater applications, linking submerged sensors and communication arrays that provide critical awareness in subsea environments. Hostile Environments Demand Defence CablesThe battlefield is not a forgiving place, with extreme temperatures, vibrations, EMI, and exposure to hazardous materials.Defence standard cables thrive in hostile environments, showcasing their ruggedness and durability.These cables resist physical stress, harsh weather conditions, and cyber threats. This ensures that military technologies remain effective under the most demanding circumstances. Innovation and Future ProspectsAs military technologies continue to evolve, so too will the demands placed on defence standard cables.The rise of artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and advanced sensor networks will require cables with enhanced data-carrying capacities and resilience.Researchers and manufacturers work diligently to develop cables that meet these demands, contributing to the efficiency of military operations. ConclusionDefence standard cables underpin the functionality of modern military technology.From communication systems that enable real-time coordination to radar systems that identify potential threats. These cables play a pivotal role in safeguarding countries and ensuring the success of military operations.As technology advances, Defence Cables will continue to adapt, remaining at the forefront of innovation and resilience.Securi-Flex® offer a range of Defence Standard Cables which are available directly from stock.If you have more questions, feel free to contact our friendly team. We’re always happy to help!
Ensuring Safe and Compliant Electrical Installations
CPR and BS6701:2016+A1:2017Construction Products Regulations (CPR):The Construction Industry has witnessed significant advancements in electrical systems and technology. This in turn has led to safer and more efficient electrical installations.Various standards and regulations govern these advancements in the United Kingdom and across the European Union.Two crucial standards that play a pivotal role in ensuring electrical safety and compliance are:Construction Products Regulation (CPR) British Standard BS6701:2016+A1:2017  What is CPR?CPR, or the Construction Products Regulation, is a European Union (EU) Regulation that came into effect in 2011.The primary purpose of CPR is to harmonise the performance requirements for Construction Products, including cables, within the EU Member States.CPR Categorises Construction Products into different classes based on their performance characteristics. This Classification helps ensure that products meet specific safety and performance standards. Application to Cable Types:One of the most critical applications of CPR is in the Classification and regulation of cables used in buildings and infrastructure.CPR sets clear requirements for fire safety and reaction to the fire performance of cables.  Key Elements of CPR for Cables:Cable Classification - CPR classifies cables based on fire performance. These classes range from Aca (the highest level of fire safety) to Fca (the lowest). The Classification depends on criteria such as heat release, flame spread, and smoke production CE Marking - Cables that comply with CPR must carry the CE Marking. This indicates that the product meets required standards and is safe for use in Construction Declaration of Performance (DoP) - Manufacturers have an obligation to furnish a Declaration of Performance (DoP) for their cables. A DoP details essential information such as Product Classification, intended use, and fire performance characteristics  What is BS6701:2016+A1:2017?British Standard BS6701:2016+A1:2017 is the UK standard that provides recommendations and requirements for telecommunications cabling infrastructure within buildings:Planning Design Installation Testing Maintenance While it primarily focuses on telecommunications cabling, it also addresses key aspects of electrical safety in relation to cabling installations. Key Elements of BS6701:2016+A1:2017 Structured Cabling:The standard highlights the significance of structured cabling systems by stressing the need for organised, documented, and maintainable cabling installations.Safety: BS6701:2016+A1:2017 includes safety requirements for cabling installations to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.This includes proper grounding, bonding, and protection against overcurrent.Compliance: Compliance with this standard is critical for telecommunications cabling installations, as it ensures network performance, reliability, and safety. The Intersection of CPR and BS6701:2016+A1:2017While CPR and BS6701:2016+A1:2017 primarily address different aspects of construction products and installations.Cables used for data and telecommunications transmission are subject to:CPR Classification for fire safety BS6701:2016+A1:2017 for structured cabling requirements In the construction industry, electrical and cabling installations play a vital role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and performance. CPR and BS6701:2016+A1:2017 are integral standards that guide the design, installation, and maintenance of cables and cabling infrastructure.Compliance with these standards is a legal requirement, and a crucial step in ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical and telecommunications systems.As technology continues to advance, staying up-to-date with these standards becomes increasingly important in the construction industry.  In Summary:Securi-Flex® proudly announces our comprehensive knowledge of CPR (Construction Products Regulation).We have invested significant time and resources into understanding and adhering to these crucial regulations. This helps to ensure the highest level of safety and compliance in all our products and services.We are dedicated to keeping up with CPR regulations to ensure that our products meet the highest safety standards. This allows you to have full confidence in the reliability and quality of Securi-Flex® solutions.Securi-Flex® is your trusted source for a diverse range of Dca CPR rated cables which are in stock as standard.Securi-Flex® curates its' extensive inventory meticulously to meet the highest safety and quality standards. This ensures that your projects comply with the necessary regulations and standards.If you require CPR rated cables for the following applications, Securi-Flex® provides a wide selection of options to suit your specific needs:Residential Commercial Industrial  If you have any questions regarding CPR, please don’t hesitate to contact the Securi-Flex® team, we’re always happy to help!
Award Winning Customer Service with Securi-Flex®!
We did it! Securi-Flex® Ltd is proud and elated to announce our recent triumph at the EW Awards 2023 We are absolutely thrilled to bring home the "Best Customer Service: Brand" award, and we couldn't have done it without our amazing customers, dedicated team, and the esteemed panel of expert judges who recognised our commitment to excellence!A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Valued CustomersA Shout out to Our Outstanding Team Gratitude to the EW Awards 2023.This award belongs to each and every member of the Securi-Flex® family. Well done, team! At Securi-Flex®, we believe that exceptional customer service is not just a goal; it's a way of doing business. It's about understanding our customers' needs, providing timely solutions, and continuously striving for improvement. This award validates our commitment to delivering the best customer experience possible.Thank you, once again, for your trust and support! To experience our Award Winning Customer Service yourself, contact our friendly team at Securi-Flex®, we're always happy to help!
Noburn Fire Cables
Securi-Flex® can also support the supply of well-known industry brands such as Noburn. Ventcroft offers an extensive range of Noburn Fire Resistant Cables, available for purchase at Securi-Flex®. Please contact your account manager for further information and stock availability. The Noburn fire
Enhanced Fire Cables
Enhanced fire alarm cable has a 120-minute duration of survival, allowing essential systems to continue to operate as normal throughout this duration in the event of a fire. The LSZH sheath also minimises risk to evacuees and emergency crews, emitting a minimal amount of smoke and no harmful gases.
Draka Fire Cables
Securi-Flex® can also support the supply of well-known industry brands such as Draka. Draka offers an extensive range of Firetuf Fire Resistant Cables. Please contact your account manager for further information and stock availability. The Firetuf Fire Resistant Cable Range includes: Firetuf
Standard Fire Cables
Our standard fire retardant cable allows essential systems to operate as usual in the event of a fire, with a standard burn time of 60 minutes. The LSZH sheath provides protection for those exiting the building and emergency workers, as it emits a low amount of smoke and no harmful fumes if burned