LSZH Cable Application

The zero halogen cable is a product that does not contain PVC and TPU, so it does not produce either harmful gases when burning or hydrochloric acid when in contact with water.

Low smoke and halogen-free sheath materials are classified as LSZH, LSOH, LS0H, LSFH, and OHLS, which are environmentally friendly cables that do not emit toxic fumes when burning. Low smoke and halogen-free materials can reduce the toxic and corrosive gases produced during their combustion.

1, Low smoke and halogen-free materials are often used in poorly ventilated environments such as airplanes, train cars, or ships.

2, In the railroad industry, low smoke and halogen-free materials are also commonly used because there are high-voltage lines underneath the railroad or signal lines that transmit the train’s location. The use of low smoke and halogen-free materials also reduces the toxic gas accumulated when the line is damaged by fire or a short circuit.

3,  In the railroad industry or shipbuilding industry, one of the essential requirements is to protect personnel and equipment from exposure to toxic and corrosive gases, and the use of low smoke and halogen-free materials is required for the outer layer of wires and cables in these applications.

As we can see, although LSZH cables have been around for decades, their use is only just beginning to accelerate. There is no coalition or organization actively promoting LSZH cable, and there are no scenarios where LSZH cable should be used or even how LSZH cable manufacturers should describe it on their websites or in their specifications. Fortunately, this situation is improving, thanks to UL's decision to add LSZH and LSF to its certification testing program. Let’s hope this momentum continues, rather than waiting for another serious fire to occur before taking action.

In the meantime, designers and electrical engineers can either choose off-the-shelf LSZH cables or specify the standards that LSZH cables must meet for custom applications as needed.