In the ever-evolving landscape, where safety and environmental sustainability are becoming increasingly important, the demand for advanced, eco-friendly materials is on the rise. One such innovation in the wire and cable industry is the development of zero-halogen (ZH) cables. At Litmus, we are proud to introduce EcoWire-ZH, Nepal's only wire that offers zero halogen, combining superior safety features with an eco-friendly profile. In this blog, we will explore what zero-halogen eco wire is, its benefits, and its various applications.

What is EcoWire-ZH?

EcoWire-ZH, also known as low smoke zero halogen wire, is a type of electrical cable that does not contain halogens. Halogens, such as chlorine, fluorine, bromine, and iodine, are commonly found in conventional cables and can release toxic fumes when burned. These wires are made from materials that produce minimal smoke and no halogenated gases during combustion, making them safer for both people and the environment.

Did you know? Ireland have made the use of Zero-Halogen cables mandatory, linking to the Construction Products Regulations (CPR). Similarly, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Germany, and Greece have also established legal requirements for ZH cables in high-risk environments like evacuation routes.

Why EcoWire-ZH?

Litmus’ EcoWire-ZH offers several significant advantages, particularly in terms of safety and environmental impact. Here are some key benefits:

• No Toxic Gas Emissions:

EcoWire-ZH wires do not release toxic gases when exposed to fire. This is crucial in ensuring the safety of individuals in the event of a fire, as traditional halogenated cables can produce hazardous fumes that can cause serious health issues.

• Clear Visibility in Restricted Spaces:

In case of a fire, zero halogen wires produce significantly less smoke compared to traditional cables. This low smoke production enhances visibility, making it easier for occupants to evacuate and for emergency services to operate effectively. During a fire incident:

- Visibility: Normal wire visibility drops to about 40%, while EcoWire-ZH maintains around 80% visibility. This stark difference can be the deciding factor in safe evacuation.

- Smoke Density: Normal wires can contribute to a smoke density of around 60%, whereas EcoWire-ZH limits it to approximately 20%. This reduced smoke density significantly improves safety and operational efficiency during emergencies.

• Self-Extinguishing and Inhibit the Spread of Flames:

EcoWire-ZH is designed to be self-extinguishing and to inhibit the spread of flames. This feature is critical in preventing fires from escalating and causing more extensive damage. The self-extinguishing property ensures that the fire does not continue to burn once the ignition source is removed, significantly reducing the risk of fire propagation.

• Environmentally Friendly:

EcoWire-ZH is made from materials that are less harmful to the environment. The absence of halogens means that the production and disposal of these cables have a lower environmental impact. A significant indicator of environmental friendliness is the emission of hydrogen chloride during a fire. Traditional cables emit about 28% hydrogen chloride, whereas EcoWire-ZH drastically reduces this to just 0.5%.

• Responds Well to High Voltages (up to 15 kV):

EcoWire-ZH is engineered to handle high voltages effectively, with a capacity of up to 15 kV. This makes it suitable for applications that require robust performance under high electrical stress. Whether used in industrial settings or for heavy-duty installations, these cables maintain their integrity and safety standards even at high voltage levels.

• Higher Protection Against Current Leakages:

EcoWire-ZH boasts an impressive high-volume resistivity, greater than 10^16 Ω/cm³. This high resistivity means that the wire is extremely resistant to the flow of electric current, reducing the likelihood of electrical leakage. High-volume resistivity ensures that the cables are effective insulators, enhancing the overall safety and performance of electrical systems.

• Applications of EcoWire-ZH

EcoWire-ZH is versatile and can be used in various settings where safety and environmental concerns are paramount. Here are some common applications:

1. Public Buildings: Hospitals, schools, and office buildings where the safety of large numbers of people is critical.
2. Transport Infrastructure: Airports, railways, and subways require cables that minimize the risk of fire and ensure passenger safety.
3. Industrial Facilities: Factories and warehouses where fire hazards are a concern can benefit from the superior safety features of zero halogen cables.
4. Residential Projects: Homes, especially those built with sustainability in mind, can use zero halogen wires to enhance safety and reduce environmental impact.
5. Data Centers: Facilities that house critical information infrastructure need cables that offer both fire resistance and minimal smoke production to protect sensitive equipment.

EcoWire-ZH from Litmus is a pioneering product that sets new standards for safety and environmental responsibility in Nepal. By choosing zero halogen wires, you are investing in a safer, cleaner future. Whether for public buildings, transport infrastructure, industrial facilities, residential projects, or data centers, EcoWire-ZH is the ideal choice for those who prioritize safety and sustainability.