Flame retardant and fire resistant cables are two types of cables used in building wiring, but they have different properties and characteristics.
Flame retardant cables are designed to prevent the spread of flames in case of a fire. They are made with materials that contain flame-retardant additives that prevent the cable from catching fire or spreading flames along its length. Flame retardant cables are often used in low voltage applications where fire safety is a concern, such as in homes, offices, and public buildings.
Fire resistant cables, on the other hand, are designed to maintain their integrity and continue to function in case of a fire. These cables are made with materials that can withstand high temperatures for extended periods of time without breaking down or failing. Fire resistant cables are often used in critical applications such as emergency lighting, fire alarms, and public address systems.
In summary, flame retardant cables are designed to prevent the spread of fire, while fire resistant cables are designed to maintain their functionality during a fire. It’s important to choose the appropriate type of cable for the specific application to ensure the safety and reliability of the wiring system.