Fire Testing

5. Circuit (insulation) Integrity in accordance with EN 50200:2006
EN 50200:2006 defines method of test for resistance to fire of unprotected small cables (up to 20mm) for use in emergency circuits. In the adapted chamber is mounted a cable sample with a length of 1200mm, to which wire cores during the test a nominal value voltage is applied, creating thereby a closed circuit. During the test the cable is subjected to actions of the fire at conventional temperature 842°C and mechanical stroke for a specified period of time. The measured time of proper functioning of the cable corresponds to the so-called cable fire resistance class PH, which is also mentioned in the standard PN-B-02851-1 - Fire resistance tests of elements of buildings (Test method for thin wires with an outside diameter not greater than 20mm).
The test duration is expressed in minutes and is recorded in the following classification:

EN 50200 annex E also foresees the water stress (fire, mechanical shock & water spray), as previously provided by BS 8434-1 standard. EN 50200 is similar to IEC 60331-2. Being different from BS 6387, EN 50200 test the same samples simultaneously stressed by the flame action, by the mechanical shock and by water spray.