PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) are two different types of jacketing materials commonly used in fiber optic cable construction.
PVC is a synthetic plastic material made from vinyl chloride monomer. It is known for its durability, flexibility and resistance to moisture and chemicals. On the other hand, LSZH refers to a cable sheath that does not contain halogenated materials. It is usually made from a combination of thermoplastic compounds.
One of the main differences between PVC and LSZH is their fire resistance. PVC is not inherently flame retardant, and when it burns it produces large amounts of thick black smoke and toxic gases. These fumes and gases can impede visibility, making evacuation difficult and posing a health risk to those in the vicinity. In contrast, LSZH is designed to feature low smoke emissions and does not produce toxic halogenated gases when exposed to fire. It is typically used in environments where fire safety is a priority, such as public buildings, aircraft and data centers.
Concerns about the environmental impact of PVC have been raised by the release of halogenated gases and toxic fumes when it burns. These emissions can be harmful to human health and the environment. Low Smoke Halogen Free addresses these concerns by minimizing the release of toxic fumes and reducing the environmental impact in the event of a fire.
PVC jackets are used in a wide range of applications due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility. They are commonly found in indoor wiring, power cables, telecommunications and general purpose applications. Low-smoke, halogen-free jackets offer enhanced fire safety and are commonly used in environments where the risk of fire spread and smoke generation needs to be minimized. Examples include public transportation systems, military installations and densely populated areas.
LSZH cables are typically more expensive than PVC cables. The choice between PVC and LSZH depends on the specific requirements of the application, with fire safety considerations playing an important role in the decision-making process.
