Comparison of Flame Retardant Standards for Electric Wires and Cables

By JianYunCable -

 

​Electric Wires and Cables

Introduction

With the increasing demand for fire safety in electric wires and cables, flame retardant standards play a critical role in preventing fire hazards and the spread of flames. This paper compares the domestic and international flame retardant standard systems, focusing on GB/T 19666-2019 and GB 31247-2014, and analyzes the key technical indicators, sample burning methods, and combustion test parameters.

1. Current Standards for Flame Retardant Cables

1.1 International Standards (IEC 60332 Series)

  • IEC 60332-1-1:2015, IEC 60332-1-2:2004, and IEC 60332-1-3:2004 focus on the flame spread height based on non-metal content in cables.
  • China adopts these standards through GB/T 18380-2022, which aligns with IEC 60332.

1.2 Chinese National Standards

  • GB/T 19666-2019: General rules for flame-retardant and fire-resistant electric wires and optical cables.
  • GB 31247-2014: Classification for burning behavior of electric and optical cables.

2. Key Technical Indicators Comparison

2.1 Assessment Items

StandardAssessment Items
GB/T 19666-2019Carbonization height ≤ 2.5 m
GB 31247-2014Heat release, smoke generation, flame spread, and burning growth rate

2.2 Sample Burning Quantity

Flame Retardant LevelNon-Metal Volume FractionMinimum Number of Samples
AF/R Class7.04
A Class7.02
B Class3.52
C Class1.52
D Class0.52

2.3 Binding Method for Sample Bundles

StandardBinding Method
GB/T 19666-2019Based on conductor cross-section area and cable diameter
GB 31247-2014Determined solely by cable diameter

2.4 Combustion Test Time

StandardCombustion Time
GB/T 19666-201940 min for AF/R, A, B Classes; 20 min for C and D Classes
GB 31247-201420 min for all levels

3. Challenges in Standard Implementation

3.1 Airflow Control During Combustion

  • Air intake flow rate and airflow direction significantly impact test accuracy.
  • Maintaining 8000 L/min airflow stability is essential for consistent results.

3.2 Burner Position and Stability

  • Positioning the burner at a 75 mm distance from the sample affects heat release rate.
  • Clogged nozzles due to residue buildup can lead to inaccurate readings.

3.3 Environmental Temperature Control

  • Standard requires 5°C to 40°C ambient temperature with 16 hours of pre-treatment at (20±10)°C.

4. Conclusion and Recommendations


  • GB/T 19666-2019 focuses on preventing flame spread, while GB 31247-2014 emphasizes heat release and smoke production.
  • For high-rise buildings and subways, GB 31247-2014 provides better fire safety protection.
  • Cable manufacturers should customize cable structure and materials to meet different flame retardant standards.


5. Keywords

  • Flame Retardant Cable Standards
  • Fire Performance of Electric Cables
  • Heat Release and Smoke Control
  • IEC 60332 and GB Standards

6. References

  1. Zhao Di (2024). Comparison on Flame Retardant Standards of Electric Wires and Cables. Wire & Cable, No.6, 2024. DOI: 10.16105/j.dxdl.1672-6901.202406009
  2. GB/T 19666-2019 - General Rules for Flame Retardant Cables
  3. GB 31247-2014 - Classification for Burning Behavior of Cables

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