The VITALink brand 2-hour fire-rated circuit integrity cables from Comtran Cable LLC are low-smoke, zero-halogen type FPLR-CI cables developed specifically to meet the circuit survivability requirements of NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. The cables established a minimum two-hour fire-resistance rating by passing the applicable requirements of UL Test Standard 2196, Standard for Tests of Fire Resistive Cables.
Comtran explains, "Industry demand is increasing for fire alarm circuit integrity (CI) cabling that will support life and fire safety. Critical systems such as Emergency Voice-Alarm Communication (EVAC), smoke/fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, fireman's telephone and area-of-refuge communication systems must offer 'survivability' for two hours in order for safe evacuation of building occupants. These applications require cabling that can withstand harsh environments while being fully operational."
Cables in the VITALink product line are UL Listed Type FPLR-CI, two-hour fire-rated alarm cables when installed in free air (CI), or in steel conduit (CIC) per FHIT System 35 (Electrical Circuit Protective Systems). The cables meet the requirements for fire alarm circuit integrity cables when installed in accordance with standard code practices as defined in Article 760 of the National Electrical Code, Comtran says.
The cable is made with solid copper, 12 through 18 AWG, that Comtran says is specifically engineered to minimize embrittlement due to fire exposure. It includes a proprietary low-smoke, zero-halogen thermoset layer called Fire-Roc. The cable also includes color-coded twisted conductors and a red low-smoke, zero-halogen polyolefin outer jacket. The cable is available in shielded and unshielded constructions.
Comtran also lists the following characteristics of VITALink cables.
- Riser rated per UL 1666
- Insulation rating of 300 volts per NEC and 72 volts phase-ground or 125 volts phase-phase under fire
- UL Listed as Type FPLR-CI per UL 1424 including the following optional markings: sunlight-resistant and wet-location rated; IEEE 1202/FT-4; LS (per UL 1685) cable rated for 90 degrees C, UL Listed as Type CL2R/CL3R per UL 13
Comtran adds that common applications for these cables are tunnels and subways; high-rise buildings; airports, stadiums, tracks, colleges, banks and hotels; manufacturing, commercial and industrial locations; and healthcare facilities.
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