Fire Testing

7. Circuit (insulation) Integrity in accordance with BS 5839-1:2002
The new edition of BS 5839-1:2002 (Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Code of practice for system design, installation, commissioning and maintenance) describes two level of fire performance for fire rated cabling for fire alarm system: Standard Grade and Enhanced Grade. In order to confirm the compliance of the cable to both categories, BS 5839-1 refers to EN 50200 and BS 8434-2003 Part 1 & 2. ( Method of tests for the assessmeent of fire integrity of electricity cables). These tests are carried out to verify the circuit integrity of small cables exposed to flame, mechanical shock and water in accordance with the new fire alarm code of practice.
Standard Grade clause 26.2d
Maintenance of circuit integrity:
BS 8434-1:2003 at 830°C for 30 minutes,
15 minutes with fire and mechanical shock plus
15 minutes with fire, mechanical shock and water.
BS EN 50200 PH30
30 minutes at 830°C with fire and mechanical shock
Enhanced Standard Grade clause 26.2e
Maintenance of circuit integrity:
BS 8434-2:2003 at 930°C for 120 minutes,
60 minutes with fire and mechanical shock plus
60 minutes with fire, mechanical shock and water.
BS EN 50200 PH120 (improved)
120 minutes at 830°C with fire and mechanical shock