Several
materials are used as fire retardants in paint for cable industry. The most common
ones include:
Aluminum hydroxide (ATH): ATH
is a white, odorless powder that is added to cable insulation to help prevent
the spread of fire. It is a very effective fire retardant and is also
relatively inexpensive.
Magnesium hydroxide (MDH): MDH
is another white, odorless powder that is used as a fire retardant in cables.
It is similar to ATH in its effectiveness and cost.
Hydrated alumina (HA): HA is a
form of aluminum oxide that is used as a fire retardant in cables. It is less
effective than ATH and MDH, but it is also less expensive.
Halogenated fire retardants
(HFRs): HFRs are a group of chemicals that contain halogen atoms, such as
chlorine or bromine. They are very effective fire retardants, but they can also
release toxic gases when burned.
Intumescent fire retardants
(IFRs): IFRs are a newer type of fire retardant that work by forming a char
layer on the surface of the cable insulation when it is exposed to heat. This
char layer protects the underlying insulation from further heat damage and
helps to prevent the spread of fire.
The specific type of fire retardant that is used in a particular cable will depend on the application. For example, cables that are used in buildings with high occupant loads, such as hospitals and schools, will typically use a more effective fire retardant, such as ATH or MDH. Cables that are used in less critical applications, such as residential buildings, may use a less expensive fire retardant, such as HA.
