EN 50290-2-27:2021
(Main)Communication cables - Part 2-27: Common design rules and construction - Halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds for cables having improved flame and fire properties (HFFR)
Communication cables - Part 2-27: Common design rules and construction - Halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds for cables having improved flame and fire properties (HFFR)
This document gives specific requirements for halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds used for halogen free communication cables with improved characteristics in the case of fire. Compounds, described by this document, are commonly also named HFFR or HFFR-LS (halogen free, flame/fire retardant, low smoke), see also EN 50290 2 20. It is expected to be read in conjunction with EN 50290 2 20, the product standards EN 50288 series, EN 60794 series and other applicable product standards. Improved characteristics in the case of fire are demonstrated by specific fire tests on cables for flame/fire retardant applications (e.g. single or bunched cable fire test). Additional tests to prove the characteristics in case of fire, e.g. such as smoke emission test, might also be part of the dedicated product standard or specification. This document describes the compound types as given in Table 1. Table 1 — Sheathing compounds Compound grades Max. operating temperature Comment Type 1 70°C thermoplastic standard Type 2 90°C thermoplastic, higher temperature Type 3 90°C crosslinked, higher temperature
Kommunikationskabel - Teil 2-27: Gemeinsame Regeln für Entwicklung und Konstruktion - Halogenfreie Mantelmischungen auf Polyolefinbasis für Kabel mit verbesserten Flamm- und Brandeigenschaften (HFFR)
Câbles de communication - Partie 2-27: Règles de conception communes et construction - Mélanges pour gaines à base de polyoléfine sans halogène utilisés dans les câbles à comportement au feu amélioré (HFFR)
Komunikacijski kabli - 2-27. del: Skupna pravila za načrtovanje in konstrukcijo - Brezhalogenske zmesi za oplaščenje kablov na osnovi poliolefinov z izboljšanimi lastnostmi zadrževanja ognja (HFFR)
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 29-Apr-2021
- Technical Committee
- CLC/TC 46X - Communication cables
- Drafting Committee
- CLC/TC 46X - Communication cables
- Current Stage
- 6060 - Document made available - Publishing
- Start Date
- 30-Apr-2021
- Due Date
- 03-Jun-2021
- Completion Date
- 30-Apr-2021
Relations
- Effective Date
- 26-Jan-2023
- Effective Date
- 04-May-2021
Overview
EN 50290-2-27:2021 is a European standard published by the CLC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) that specifies the common design rules and construction requirements for halogen-free polyolefin-based sheathing compounds used in communication cables. These compounds are recognized for their enhanced flame and fire-retardant properties, commonly referred to as HFFR or HFFR-LS (Halogen Free Flame/Fire Retardant - Low Smoke). This standard updates and supersedes the previous 2002 edition, aligning the latest material, safety, and fire performance requirements to support safer cable applications in fire-prone environments.
Key Topics
Halogen-Free Polyolefin Compounds: Defines three main grades of sheathing compounds:
- Type 1: Standard thermoplastic, max operating temp 70°C
- Type 2: Thermoplastic with higher temperature resistance, max 90°C
- Type 3: Crosslinked compound for higher temperature applications, max 90°C
Fire and Flame Retardant Performance:
Specified compounds demonstrate improved fire resistance via rigorous testing such as single or bunched cable fire tests and smoke emission tests. These tests ensure the materials emit low levels of toxic and corrosive gases, reducing hazards during fires.Test Requirements:
The standard outlines comprehensive test methods to assess:- Density, corrosivity, and halogen acid content
- Oxygen index for burning behavior
- Smoke emission and water absorption
- Mechanical properties including tensile strength, elongation, bending at low temperatures, high-temperature pressure resistance, heat shock, and hot set testing (for crosslinked types)
Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance:
Manufacturing materials comply with stringent HSE standards defined in EN 50290-2-20, ensuring safety during production, use, and potential fire incidents.Interlinked Product Standards:
EN 50290-2-27 is used in conjunction with other key standards such as:- EN 50290-2-20 for general design rules
- EN 50288 series for communication cables product standards
- EN 60794 series for optical fibre cables
Applications
EN 50290-2-27:2021 is essential for manufacturers, designers, and specifiers of communication cables that require reliable, halogen-free sheathing with superior fire performance. Typical applications include:
- Indoor and outdoor telecommunication cables where fire safety is critical
- Data transmission cables used in public spaces, commercial buildings, and transport infrastructure
- Crosslinked and thermoplastic cable sheaths exposed to elevated temperatures or harsh environments
- Specialized cables requiring low smoke emission and reduced corrosivity for enhanced occupant protection during fires
This standard fosters safer cable installations by ensuring cables contribute minimally to fire spread and toxic gas emissions, protecting both human safety and property.
Related Standards
- EN 50290-2-20: General common design rules and construction requirements for halogen-free cables
- EN 50288 Series: Product-specific standards for communication and data cables
- EN 60794 Series: Standards covering optical fiber cables
- EN 60754 Series: Tests on gases evolved during combustion, measuring halogen acid content and acidity
- EN 60811 Series: Test methods for non-metallic cable materials, including mechanical and thermal testing
- ISO 4589-2: Plastic burning behavior assessment via oxygen index testing
Adhering to EN 50290-2-27 alongside these complementary standards ensures comprehensive compliance with fire safety, durability, and environmental requirements in communication cable manufacturing and application.
Keywords: EN 50290-2-27, halogen free communication cables, HFFR sheathing compounds, polyolefin cable sheaths, flame retardant cables, fire resistant cable materials, low smoke halogen free (LSHF), cable fire performance, cable safety standards, CLC cable standards, communication cable design rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
EN 50290-2-27:2021 is a standard published by CLC. Its full title is "Communication cables - Part 2-27: Common design rules and construction - Halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds for cables having improved flame and fire properties (HFFR)". This standard covers: This document gives specific requirements for halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds used for halogen free communication cables with improved characteristics in the case of fire. Compounds, described by this document, are commonly also named HFFR or HFFR-LS (halogen free, flame/fire retardant, low smoke), see also EN 50290 2 20. It is expected to be read in conjunction with EN 50290 2 20, the product standards EN 50288 series, EN 60794 series and other applicable product standards. Improved characteristics in the case of fire are demonstrated by specific fire tests on cables for flame/fire retardant applications (e.g. single or bunched cable fire test). Additional tests to prove the characteristics in case of fire, e.g. such as smoke emission test, might also be part of the dedicated product standard or specification. This document describes the compound types as given in Table 1. Table 1 — Sheathing compounds Compound grades Max. operating temperature Comment Type 1 70°C thermoplastic standard Type 2 90°C thermoplastic, higher temperature Type 3 90°C crosslinked, higher temperature
This document gives specific requirements for halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds used for halogen free communication cables with improved characteristics in the case of fire. Compounds, described by this document, are commonly also named HFFR or HFFR-LS (halogen free, flame/fire retardant, low smoke), see also EN 50290 2 20. It is expected to be read in conjunction with EN 50290 2 20, the product standards EN 50288 series, EN 60794 series and other applicable product standards. Improved characteristics in the case of fire are demonstrated by specific fire tests on cables for flame/fire retardant applications (e.g. single or bunched cable fire test). Additional tests to prove the characteristics in case of fire, e.g. such as smoke emission test, might also be part of the dedicated product standard or specification. This document describes the compound types as given in Table 1. Table 1 — Sheathing compounds Compound grades Max. operating temperature Comment Type 1 70°C thermoplastic standard Type 2 90°C thermoplastic, higher temperature Type 3 90°C crosslinked, higher temperature
EN 50290-2-27:2021 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 29.035.20 - Plastics and rubber insulating materials; 33.120.10 - Coaxial cables. Waveguides. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
EN 50290-2-27:2021 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN 50290-2-27:2002/A1:2007, EN 50290-2-27:2002. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
You can purchase EN 50290-2-27:2021 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of CLC standards.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-julij-2021
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 50290-2-27:2002
SIST EN 50290-2-27:2002/A1:2007
Komunikacijski kabli - 2-27. del: Skupna pravila za načrtovanje in konstrukcijo -
Brezhalogenske zmesi za oplaščenje kablov na osnovi poliolefinov z izboljšanimi
lastnostmi zadrževanja ognja (HFFR)
Communication cables - Part 2-27: Common design rules and construction - Halogen
free polyolefin based sheathing compounds for cables having improved flame and fire
properties (HFFR)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 50290-2-27:2021
ICS:
29.035.20 Plastični in gumeni izolacijski Plastics and rubber insulating
materiali materials
33.120.10 Koaksialni kabli. Valovodi Coaxial cables. Waveguides
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 50290-2-27
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
April 2021
ICS 29.035.20; 33.120.10 Supersedes EN 50290-2-27:2002 and all of its
amendments and corrigenda (if any)
English Version
Communication cables - Part 2-27: Common design rules and
construction - Halogen free polyolefin based sheathing
compounds for cables having improved flame and fire properties
(HFFR)
Câbles de communication Partie 2-27: Règles de
conception communes et construction -
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2021-01-19. CENELEC members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC
Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre or to any CENELEC member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and the United Kingdom.
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2021 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.
Ref. No. EN 50290-2-27:2021 E
Contents
European foreword . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Compound test requirements . 7
5 Cable test requirements . 7
6 Health, safety and environmental (HSE) requirements . 8
Bibliography . 11
European foreword
This document (EN 50290-2-27:2021) has been prepared by CLC/TC 46X “Communication cables”.
The following dates are fixed:
• latest date by which this document has to be (dop) 2022–01–19
implemented at national level by publication of
an identical national standard or by
endorsement
latest date by which the national standards (dow) 2021–01–19
•
conflicting with this document have to be
withdrawn
This document will supersede EN 50290-2-27:2002 and all of its amendments and corrigenda (if any).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
1 Scope
This document gives specific requirements for halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds used for
halogen free communication cables with improved characteristics in the case of fire.
Compounds, described by this document, are commonly also named HFFR or HFFR-LS (halogen free,
flame/fire retardant, low smoke), see also EN 50290-2-20.
It is expected to be read in conjunction with EN 50290-2-20, the product standards EN 50288 series, EN 60794
series and other applicable product standards.
Improved characteristics in the case of fire are demonstrated by specific fire tests on cables for flame/fire
retardant applications (e.g. single or bunched cable fire test). Additional tests to prove the characteristics in case
of fire, e.g. such as smoke emission test, might also be part of the dedicated product standard or specification.
This document describes the compound types as given in Table 1.
Table 1 — Sheathing compounds
Compound grades Max. operating temperature Comment
°C
Type 1 +70 thermoplastic standard
Type 2 +90 thermoplastic, higher
temperature
Type 3 +90 crosslinked, higher
temperature
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content constitutes
requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the
latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 50290-2-20, Communication cables - Part 2-20: Common design rules and construction - General
EN 60754-1, Test on gases evolved during combustion of materials from cables - Part 1: Determination of the
halogen acid gas content (IEC 60754-1)
EN 60754-2, Test on gases evolved during combustion of materials from cables - Part 2: Determination of
acidity (by pH measurement) and conductivity (IEC 60754-2)
EN 60684-2:2011, Flexible insulating sleeving - Part 2: Methods of test (IEC 60684-2:2011)
EN 60811-402, Electric and optical fibre cables - Test methods for non-metallic materials - Part 402:
Miscellaneous tests - Water absorption tests (IEC 60811-402)
EN 60811-606, Electric and optical fibre cables - Test methods for non-metallic materials - Part 606: Physical
tests - Methods for determining the density (IEC 60811-606)
EN ISO 4589-2, P
...
The EN 50290-2-27:2021 standard serves a critical role in defining the requirements for halogen free polyolefin based sheathing compounds used in communication cables, specifically those designed to exhibit improved characteristics in fire situations. This document is particularly relevant in today’s safety-conscious environment, where the demand for halogen-free communication cables with enhanced flame and fire properties is on the rise. A key strength of this standard is its focus on providing specific guidelines concerning HFFR (halogen free, flame/fire retardant) and HFFR-LS (low smoke) sheathing compounds. By addressing the nuances of different compound types, such as Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3, the standard outlines their respective maximum operating temperatures and thermal characteristics, which are essential in selecting appropriate materials for various applications. For example, Type 1 offers a thermoplastic solution at 70°C, while Types 2 and 3 provide higher temperature options, making this standard versatile in its applications. The inclusion of performance-based requirements highlights the standard's commitment to safety. The emphasis on specific fire tests, such as single or bunched cable fire tests, ensures that users are equipped with clear expectations regarding the performance of cables under test scenarios simulating real-world conditions. Furthermore, guidance on additional testing for smoke emissions enhances the relevance of this standard in environments where reduced smoke generation is critical. Moreover, EN 50290-2-27:2021 is intended to be read in conjunction with other pertinent standards like EN 50290-2-20 and the EN 50288 and EN 60794 series. This interconnected structure facilitates a comprehensive understanding of cable performance characteristics, ensuring that manufacturers and engineers can rely on an integrated approach to cable design and safety. In conclusion, the EN 50290-2-27:2021 standard is a vital resource for the development of halogen free communication cables, combining strict material guidelines with safety requirements aimed at improving fire and flame performance. Its detailed approach not only enhances the reliability of communication systems but also aligns with contemporary fire safety regulations.
SIST EN 50290-2-27:2021 표준 문서는 할로겐 프리 폴리올레핀 기반의 케이블 피복 화합물에 대한 요구 사항을 명시하고 있습니다. 이 문서는 할로겐 프리 통신 케이블에서 화재 발생 시 개선된 특성을 가진 화합물에 중점을 두고 있으며, HFFR(할로겐 프리, 내화 및 저연기) 또는 HFFR-LS라는 이름으로도 널리 알려져 있습니다. 이 표준의 장점은 다양한 난연 성능을 제공하는 피복 화합물의 유형에 대한 구체적인 설명을 포함하고 있다는 점입니다. 특히, 화재 발생 시의 성능을 입증하기 위한 특정 화재 시험을 통해 개선된 특성을 실증하는 절차가 잘 정립되어 있습니다. 또한, 연기 방출 시험과 같은 추가 테스트도 표준 문서의 일부로 포함될 수 있어, 전반적인 안전 및 신뢰성을 높입니다. 문서에서는 세 가지 타입의 피복 화합물을 제시하고 있으며, 각 타입은 최대 작동 온도와 관련된 구체적인 정보를 제공합니다. 타입 1은 최대 70°C의 작동 온도를 가진 열가소성 표준 화합물이며, 타입 2는 90°C의 더 높은 온도를 지원하는 열가소성 화합물입니다. 타입 3는 교차 결합된 구조로서 90°C의 높은 온도에서 사용할 수 있습니다. 이 표준은 EN 50290-2-20과 함께 읽을 것이 권장되며, EN 50288 시리즈 및 EN 60794 시리즈와 같은 기타 적용 가능한 제품 표준과 조화롭게 적용될 수 있습니다. 따라서 SIST EN 50290-2-27:2021 표준은 할로겐 프리 화합물의 생태적 특성과 화재의 안전성을 고려할 때 매우 중요한 역할을 하며, 현대 통신 케이블의 설계 및 건설에서 필수적으로 참조해야 할 문서입니다.
La norme SIST EN 50290-2-27:2021, dédiée aux câbles de communication, aborde des questions cruciales liées aux composés de gaine à base de polyoléfine sans halogène (HFFR). Son champ d'application est bien défini, ciblant les exigences spécifiques pour ces matériaux utilisés dans la fabrication de câbles de communication ayant des propriétés améliorées en cas d'incendie. Cela souligne la pertinence de cette norme dans le contexte actuel, où les préoccupations en matière de sécurité incendie sont de plus en plus pressantes. Un des points forts de cette norme est son approche systématique concernant les essais de feu, assurant que les câbles répondent bien aux spécificités des applications résistantes aux flammes. La norme stipule que les composés décrits, souvent appelés HFFR ou HFFR-LS (sans halogène, retardateur de flammes/d’incendie, faible émission de fumée), doivent passer par des tests rigoureux qui comprennent des essais de câbles uniques ou rassemblés. Cette exigence garantit une protection maximale lors de situations d'incendie, ce qui est essentiel pour des installations sécurisées dans des environnements sensibles. En outre, la norme inclut un tableau descriptif des différents types de composés de gaine, confirmant qu'elle considère les diverses applications et exigences thermiques des câbles. Par exemple, les types de composés de gaine sont classés par température maximale d'utilisation, fournissant des informations cruciales aux fabricants et concepteurs souhaitant choisir le composé approprié pour des performances optimales. La norme SIST EN 50290-2-27:2021 démontre également sa pertinence par son lien avec d'autres standards, tels que l'EN 50290-2-20 et les séries de normes EN 50288 et EN 60794. Cela permet aux professionnels du secteur de s'assurer que les matériaux utilisés dans la fabrication de câbles de communication sont conformes aux meilleures pratiques et aux exigences de sécurité les plus récentes. En somme, cette norme représente une avancée significative pour la conception de câbles de communication, en mettant l'accent sur des propriétés améliorées en cas d'incendie, la sécurité des installations et la compatibilité avec d'autres standards, garantissant ainsi un impact positif immédiat sur la qualité et la fiabilité des câbles produits.
Die Norm EN 50290-2-27:2021 bietet spezifische Anforderungen für halogenfreie polyolefinbasierte Sheathing-Verbindungen, die bei der Konstruktion von halogenfreien Kommunikationskabeln verwendet werden. Diese Kabel zeichnen sich durch verbesserte Eigenschaften im Brandfall aus, was einen wesentlichen Punkt bei der Auswahl von Kabeln für verschiedene Anwendungen darstellt. Die Verwendung von halogenfreien, flammhemmenden und raucharmen Materialien (HFFR) gewährleistet nicht nur die Sicherheit, sondern auch den Schutz der Umwelt, was in der heutigen Zeit von großer Bedeutung ist. Ein zentrales Merkmal dieser Norm ist ihre umfassende und detaillierte Beschreibung der verschiedenen Verbindungstypen, die in Tabelle 1 aufgeführt sind. Hier werden unterschiedliche Compound-Grades klassifiziert, die variierende maximale Betriebstemperaturen und spezifische Eigenschaften aufweisen. Dies ermöglicht eine gezielte Auswahl des passenden Materials, abhängig von den spezifischen Anforderungen der Anwendung. Die Möglichkeit, zwischen verschiedenen Typen wie Typ 1, Typ 2 und Typ 3 zu wählen, zeigt die Flexibilität, die diese Norm den Herstellern und Anwendern bietet. Ein weiterer Stärke der EN 50290-2-27:2021 liegt in der Erwartung, dass sie in Verbindung mit anderen relevanten Normen, wie zum Beispiel EN 50290-2-20 und den Produktstandards der EN 50288 und EN 60794 Serien, gelesen wird. Diese Vernetzung erhöht die Relevanz der Norm, da sie nicht isoliert, sondern im Kontext der gesamten Normenlandschaft betrachtet werden sollte. Dies fördert die Kohärenz in der Produktentwicklung und unterstützt die Hersteller dabei, Produkte zu kreieren, die den geforderten Sicherheitsstandards entsprechen. Die Norm legt auch Wert auf spezifische Brandtests, die durchgeführt werden, um die Eigenschaften der Kabel zu validieren. Solche Tests, einschließlich der Brandprüfung für einzelne Kabel oder Kabelbündel, garantieren, dass die Produkte den hohen Anforderungen an die Brand- und Feueigenschaften gerecht werden. Dies ist besonders wichtig in Anwendungen, wo das Brandrisiko minimiert werden muss. Insgesamt stellt die EN 50290-2-27:2021 eine relevante und zukunftsorientierte Norm dar, die nicht nur die Sicherheit der Kommunikationskabel verbessert, sondern auch umweltfreundliche Materialien fördert. Die klare Struktur und die umfassenden Anforderungen machen diese Norm zu einem wichtigen Referenzdokument für Hersteller von Kabeln und anderen relevanten Stakeholdern in der Branche. Die Norm trägt somit signifikant zur Verbesserung der Brandschutzstandards bei und ist ein unverzichtbares Werkzeug für alle, die in der Entwicklung und Herstellung von Kommunikationskabeln tätig sind.
標準EN 50290-2-27:2021は、ハロゲンフリーのポリオレフィン基被覆化合物に関する重要なドキュメントであり、特に通信ケーブルにおける火災時の改善された特性に焦点を当てています。この標準の範囲は、ハロゲンフリー通信ケーブルに使用される被覆化合物に関する具体的な要件を提供しており、これにより火災時のリスクを低減し、より安全な通信インフラの構築を可能にします。 この標準の強みは、火災および炎に対する耐性向上のために、特定の火災試験を通じて示された性能特性にあります。HFFR（ハロゲンフリー炎/火遅延剤）またはHFFR-LS（ハロゲンフリー、炎/火遅延剤、低煙）と呼ばれるこれらの化合物は、最新の技術基準に基づき、厳格な試験をクリアしています。特に、単体または束状ケーブルの火災試験や、煙排出試験などが実施されており、これらの試験結果がカタログ化されています。 さらに、標準は、火災発生時における特性を確認するための追加試験も考慮しており、製品標準や仕様に組み込まれることが期待されています。このマーケットニーズに対応した柔軟性は、使用者にとって大きな利点と言えるでしょう。 複数の化合物タイプが定義されており、例えば従来の熱可塑性標準化合物（70°Cの最大動作温度）や、より高温に耐えるための熱可塑性化合物（90°C）や架橋型（90°C）など、異なる用途や条件に応じた選択が可能です。このように、多様な適用範囲を持つことは、さまざまな産業での利用を促進する要因となっています。 EN 50290-2-27:2021は、その設計原則と構造についてのガイドラインを提供し、他の関連する製品標準（例えばEN 50288シリーズやEN 60794シリーズ）との併用が推奨されており、全体的な互換性と一貫性を確保しています。この標準は、通信業界における安全性の向上と標準化を進めるために不可欠なものであり、今後の発展に寄与するでしょう。
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