The provision of security in the industries where they are used is the main purpose of as+ cables.
Thanks to innovation and development, all such features associated with security have been improved, up to the highest level, and are found in as+ cables and as cables.
The as+ cable is specially developed and designed for projects in which it is necessary to meet the strictest security standards and requirements.
Our customers rely on our experience of more than 25 years in the sector, since we have specialised to the utmost degree, so that in this way, each industry has the most appropriate cables.
Below we will discuss the most important aspects of an as+ cable and the features that make it different from a conventional cable.
What are high security "as" and "as+" cables? Qué son los cables de alta seguridad "as" y "as+"?
The as+ cable and the as cable are two developments that fall within what we call "high security".
High security cables have a specific feature, they are halogen-free cables, so they have lower gas emissions in the event of a fire.
High security cables are currently governed by the legislation in force, these laws deal with the places where their installation is mandatory. In addition to those places indicated by law, they can be installed in other projects where risks, such as a fire, are more likely.
According to the CPR (Construction Products Regulation), the applications where they are mandatory are as follows:
- General power line.
- Individual by-passes, spurs, leads.
- Centralisation of meters.
- Public premises.
Similarities and differences between as+ cables and as cables
The as+ cable and as cable are quite similar. In fact, they maintain identical features regarding smoke emission (opacity, toxicity and corrosiveness), as well as against the spread of a fire. Although they have a key difference which does tell them apart.
The as cable is designed in such a way that it does not spread fire throughout the installation. Even with many cables of this type, when the flame affecting them is removed or extinguished, the fire does not spread. These cables are therefore flame retardant.
However, as well as not spreading fire throughout the installation, the as+ cable is able to maintain service during and after a prolonged fire. Even though fire can destroy the organic materials of the cable in the affected area, an as+ cable still works and is hardly damaged.
Advantatges of using as+ cables in an installation compared to conventional cables
High-security cables have many advantages over conventional cables. Below are the most important features of an as+ cable:
Emission of polluting gases
In the event of a fire, a conventional cable generates fumes that have a high content of hydrochloric acid (approximately 30%), as well as carbon monoxide and dioxide.
An as+ cable (and also an as cable) reduces this hydrochloric acid emission to less than 0.5%. Therefore, a high-security cable limits its contribution to the fumes generated in a fire and reduces the risks of gas inhalation. Hence, they are also identified as "halogen-free".
Smoke opacity
In the event of a fire, conventional cables give off thick black smoke. Some tests confirm that this smoke develops in just 15 minutes and that it has a light transmittance of less than 10%.
In the case of as+ cables, the smoke that is released is transparent, with a light transmittance of over 60%.
Having this feature is essential, since in the event of a fire, people are given enough time and visibility to evacuate the building or, with regard to fire-fighters, they are able to reach the sources of the fire more easily.
Cable corrosivity
In a cable, corrosivity generates harmful effects on the electronic and computer equipment or circuits in which it is installed. This damage is specifically caused by the corrosive effect of the smoke generated.
In an as+ cable the corrosive effects are much lower than in a conventional cable, which means that all connected equipment and devices will be safer, in this regard.
Fire resistance
As+ cables stand out from both conventional cables and as cables due to their fire resistance.
In fact, an as+ cable must be designed based on standard UNE 211025, which regulates what cables with intrinsic fire resistance intended for security circuits must be like.
This quality of as+ cables allows that, in case of fire, electrical service is maintained for emergency elements, especially the services which are essential in these cases.
In conclusion, these high security cables are key to the protection of electrical installations.
They are a complement that guarantees security for the rest of the elements that are also useful in the event of fire, such as detectors, firewalls and similar.
At Sumcab, we can develop cables for your company or sector according to the needs of your business. Contact us and we will analyse your needs or your project, in order to offer you the personalised solution you need.