A Comparative Analysis of Polymeric Cable Insulations (XLPE & LSZH): Fire Dynamics, Operational Integrity, and Environmental Impact

Abstract

The choice of materials for electrical power cable insulation has a profound impact on fire safety, operational reliability, and environmental impact. This review compared the fire dynamics, operational performance, and environmental impact of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) and low-smoke, zero-halogen (LSZH) cable insulation materials. XLPE has a good thermal rating for continuous operation with mechanical strength at 90°C and short-circuit withstand capability at 250°C [12], low smoke production, and better electrical performance than PVC [6]. LSZH contains mineral fillers that release water vapour upon decomposition and retard combustion of the material [2]. According to the cone calorimeter test, LSZH cable insulation recorded 46 to 53 s time to ignition compared to 18 to 25 s for XLPE [5]. A lower peak heat release rate was also observed for LSZH with a value of 185.3 kW/m² against 243.98 kW/m² for XLPE [5]. The cable insulation material did not produce hydrogen chloride gas on combustion [13].