Gepco cables re-engineered to meet European environmental standards

Gepco has re-engineered a line of its Audio and Video cables in response to the ever increasing demand from the European marketplace for Low-Smoke, Zero-Halogen (LSZH) cables where safety is critical in the event of a fire.

In the event of a fire, a building’s electrical wiring can act as a vehicle to propagate the fire hazard from area to area. The fire damages account for a high level of replacement costs each and every year, associated with both structural replacements and the provision of damaged equipment and cabling, particularly since conventional cable manufacturing materials, such as PVC, exhibit burning characteristics that produce dense black smoke and harmful halogens. These halogens—chlorine, fluorine, bromine and iodine—result in corrosive acid when they come in contact with water.

“Gepco LSZH cables are the best choice for any audio or video application where smoke might build and come into contact with people or equipment,” says Joe Zajac, General Cable’s Market Development Manager of Gepco Brand Products. “This product line is a great example of turning end-user feedback into reality, and we will work to continue to develop other LSZH cable options.”

The materials used by Gepco in their range of cables are halogen-free, and when subjected to flames, will emit low levels of smoke. These features help ensure that a safe evacuation of people may be undertaken, and that exit routes remain visible at all times during a fire. Maintaining visibility also allows firefighters to reach the source of the flames quickly and efficiently, therefore, ensuring that systems and equipment can be brought under control and shutdown with minimal delay.

“Our Gepco Brand LSZH cables are jacketed using advanced compounds that offer flame resistance, low-smoke production and reduced toxicity,” adds Bruce Pope, General Cable’s Director of Technical Services, Gepco Brand Products. “With fewer toxic chemicals, our cables offer a reduced environmental impact and are easier to dispose of than other forms of cabling.”