What is the difference between LSZH and PVC cable?

BAB EZZOUAR, Algeria - July 30, 2024 - PRLog -- What is the difference between LSZH and PVC cable?

The main difference between LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) cables lies in their composition and properties:

Material Composition:
LSZH cables (https://www.lszh-cables.com/product-category/lszh-cables/) are made from halogen-free materials, typically using polyolefin-based compounds. They do not contain any halogens (such as chlorine) in their composition.
PVC cables are made from polyvinyl chloride, which contains chlorine as one of the primary elements.

Smoke and Toxicity:
LSZH cables produce significantly less smoke and toxic fumes when exposed to fire or high heat compared to PVC cables. This makes them safer for use in enclosed spaces or environments where fire safety is a critical concern.
When burned, PVC cables can release toxic and corrosive gases, such as hydrogen chloride, which can be harmful to humans and the environment.
Flammability and Fire Resistance:
LSZH cables are more fire-resistant and less explosive than PVC cables. They are designed to self-extinguish and have a lower heat of combustion.
Due to their higher heat release rate, PVC cables are more flammable and can contribute to the spread of fire.

Environmental Impact:
LSZH cables are considered more environmentally friendly as they do not contain halogens, which can be harmful to the environment during manufacturing, usage, or disposal.
PVC cables, due to their chlorine content, can have a higher environmental impact, particularly during disposal and recycling.

Application and Usage:
LSZH cables are often preferred in applications where fire safety and low smoke production are critical, such as in buildings, tunnels, and transportation systems.
PVC cables are more commonly used in general-purpose applications where fire safety is not the primary concern, such as in residential and commercial wiring.

In summary, LSZH cables are designed to be a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional PVC cables, particularly in applications where fire and smoke hazards need to be minimized.

Can PVC be Low Smoke Zero Halogen?

No, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) cannot be considered a Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cable material.

The key reason is that PVC, by its very nature, contains chlorine, a halogen element. The presence of chlorine in PVC gives it certain desirable properties, such as fire resistance and electrical insulation, but it also means that PVC cannot be classified as a halogen-free material.