Development of High Performance Fire-Resistant MV Power and Telecommunication Cables

Fire-resistant cable in building refers to the cable that can withstand flames and maintain electrical or communication transmission functions for a certain period of time in the event of a fire. This plays an important role in minimizing damage to human life and properties by keeping critical systems running. For power systems, regulations for cables have been revised to KS C IEC 60331-1,2 to meet international standards for high fire-resistant performance at the low voltage (LV) level. However, further development and standardization of high fire-resistant medium voltage (MV) power cables are needed. In case of communication systems, the use of flame retardant cables is still allowed in Korea, so the development and standardization of fire-resistant communication cables are needed. High fire-resistant medium-voltage and telecommunication cables are developed, and the results are described in this paper. It is believed that legislation and practicalization of fire-resistant cables for power and communication cables are essential to minimize damage to human life in the event of a fire and, consequently, to realize a safer society.