In previous blog posts, we have looked at the difference between Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarm Systems. Conventional fire alarm cables are designed based upon the AWG of the cable and can be broken into two categories: Power limited and Non-Power Limited cables. In the article below we will be looking at some distinct differences between the two:
Power Limited Fire Alarm Cables:
Power-Limited Fire Alarm cables (FPL) are listed by the NEC (National Electric Code) as being suitable for general purpose fire alarm use. This listing excludes installation in riser, ducts, plenums and other space used for environmental air unless the cable is installed in conduit.
Note: All FPL cables are listed as being resistant to the spread of fire and must pass both UL test 1424 and the vertical flame test UL 1581.
Power-Limited Fire Alarm Riser cables (FPLR) are listed as being suitable for use in a vertical run in a shaft or from floor-to-floor installations.
Note: All FPLR cables are listed as having fire-resistant characteristics capable of preventing a fire from traveling. Riser cables must pass both UL test 1424 and the Vertical riser test UL 1666.
Power-Limited Fire Alarm Plenum cables (FPLP) are listed by the NEC as being suitable for use in ducts, plenums and other space used for environmental air.
Note: All FPLP cables are listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low-smoke-producing characteristics and must pass both UL test 1424 and UL Steiner tunnel test 910.
Non-Power Limited Fire Alarm Cables:
Non-Power-Limited Fire Alarm cables (NPLF) are listed by the NEC as being suitable for general purpose fire alarm use. This listing excludes installation in riser, ducts, plenums and other space used for environmental air unless the cable is installed in conduit.
Note: All NFPL cables are listed as being resistant to the spread of fire and must pass both UL test 1424 and the vertical flame test UL 1581.
Non-Power-Limited Fire Alarm cables (NPLFP) are listed by the NEC as being suitable for use in ducts, plenums and other space used for environmental air.
Note: All NPLFP cables are listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low-smoke producing characteristics and must pass both UL test 1424 and UL Steiner tunnel test 910.
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