Fireproofing Cable Trays | The Communication Blog

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Fireproofing Cable Trays

By June Leuizamo

When you have multiple cables running through your ceiling, you can easily organize them with cable trays. Cable trays form a grid in your structure, securely fastening the cables for easy repairs. One thing to keep in mind with cable trays is that cables can be very prone to fires, which you want to prevent at all costs.

Fire can be a concern when your cable jackets are combustible, which in turn leads to a fire spreading within a cable tray. Because cable trays are not immediately accessible once installed, it is important to maintain housekeeping so that dust does not gather. If you keep these areas clear of debris and dust, you lessen the possibility of a fire.

Besides keeping the area clean, there are other things you can do to decrease the likelihood of a fire. Use fire-resistant cable jackets, and as little plastic or fiberglass as possible. Along with fireproofing, use firestop mortars, and make sure you are in complete compliance with the building codes. You would not like to be responsible for cable trays contributing to the firewall construction collapsing. It is better to take measures before anything happens, than to regret that decision once disaster has already hit.

You should not have to worry about the cable trays themselves catching fire, unless you choose plastic cable trays. Instead, choose cable trays that are metal, with all the fire protection practices in place. This is a simple action that can save you time and money later, not to mention distress if a fire were to happen.

Most times the concern with fire safety is in the cables within the trays. When cable jackets burn and produce smoke, the results can be catastrophic. One of the combustion by-products of smoke is chlorine, which will in turn combine with any moisture in the air. After this takes place, it creates hydrochloric acid, which will corrode and damage cables during and after a fire.

One action you can take to prevent this from happening is to use fire-resistant materials in the paneling and wraps. Though nothing is fireproof, this resistance will help limit smoke and combustion within you cable trays. Another thing to consider is your circuit integrity. Even during a fire, the cables need to function; this way you can shut down reactor cores and safety valves.

Isolate the heat away from any cables using wraps or boxes. When you do this, you need to remember to calculate the extra weight in your calculations. Whether you are calculating hanger sizing or spacing, account for the wrap. You will also need to take into account the Ampacity Derating, as you will have less energy from the cooler cable.

Make sure you test all your cable trays for how fireproof they are. Check for compatibility between your firestops and the fireproofing of your cables so that the two will work together. Fire safety is an important issue that you should not overlook. When doing anything with cable trays, make sure you have the proper equipment to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

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