When we think of our building’s electrical wiring, we often focus on how it helps our business run. Less often do we consider the vital wiring that runs to our safety systems, such as fire alarms. The fact is, proper electrical wiring can save lives when disaster comes to call. Understanding the composition of these wires and which will best protect your business when trouble comes to call.
Understand Fire Alarm Cables and the Different Types Available
Fire alarm cables share much in common with standard electrical wires, but it’s where they differ that matters.
The cables used for fire alarms are known as multiconductor cables. They are trusted to manage important control systems and are required to meet low-voltage requirements. These systems include broadcasting, remote signaling, communications, and fire alarm control. Different types of fire alarm cables are available.
Fire Power Limited Riser (FPLR) vs Fire Power Limited Plenum
(FPLP)These two cable types are common in conventional alarm systems, especially in the commercial field. They control detectors, control panels, and alarms in one integrated system. If one alarm goes off, the system is designed to set off every fire alarm. If needed, both types can be bought in a shielded configuration to protect against EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). “Power Limited Riser” and “Power Limited Plenum” refer to how the wire is installed.
● Power Limited Riser – Riser cables are installed in situations where they will only go higher during installation. These cables are run directly up between each floor.
● Power Limited Plenum—These cables are run in the plenum, the space used for air circulation by HVAC. They are generally more costly than riser cables due to their superior fire resistance.
They contain fire-retardant chemicals and are made with strict standards to adhere to fire safety requirements.
These cables are designed to meet federal, state, and local requirements for installation in occupied spaces. They can generally be installed without requiring additional conduit. However, certain circumstances or local building codes may change these requirements.
Introducing Non-Power Limited Cables
As the name implies, these cables can handle loads greater than 600 volts. The NEC specifies the types of power sources that can be used to provide electricity to systems using these wires. They’re a common choice for many situations where fire alarm cabling is used. However, they cannot be installed in air ducts, plenum spaces, or risers without being installed within the electrical conduit.
Two types of NPL (Non-Power Limited Cables) are found in fire alarm systems:
● Non-Power Limited Fire (NPLF): This form of cable is installed in general-purpose situations that don’t require a plenum jacket. It’s used in surface wiring situations, but it cannot be placed in ducts, plenums, or risers.
● Non-Power Limited Fire Protective (NPLFP): These cables are suitable for installation in environmental air spaces. They’re infused with properties that mitigate smoke and fire, meeting the requirements for occupied spaces.
The modern construction industry is governed by strict regulations, which require meeting a growing number of building codes. These regulations ensure that new and existing construction are safe for those who occupy them. Using the right cables ensures that the system is ready to leap into action when disaster comes to call.
Selecting The Right Fire Alarm Cable For Your Situation
If you’re installing new fire alarms, or are rewiring an existing structure, make sure you’re using the right low-voltage cable. Start by giving the experts at Onsite Wire & Cable a call. When you reach out to our sales staff, you’ll get access to a team of cabling professionals specializing in low-voltage cable products ready to work with you.
Supported by an experienced and efficient warehouse staff, we make sure to understand the circumstances and scope of your project to ensure the cables meet industry requirements and your wire and cable needs are fulfilled. Free Estimates available through our Quick Quote form on our website!