Introduction: The Criticality of Fire Safety and the CPR Regulation
The design and construction of modern buildings mandate not only aesthetics and functionality but also the highest level of life safety. In areas with high human density, such as hospitals, schools, shopping centres, and high-rise structures, the performance of electrical installations during a fire is critically important. The European Union’s Construction Products Regulation (CPR), specifically under the EN 50575 standard, has established a legal framework for the reaction-to-fire performance of cables used in buildings.
This is precisely where the question, What is N2XH cable?, finds its answer, representing a core solution underpinning these new safety standards. The N2XH cable is a type of low-voltage power cable distinguished by its halogen-free (HFFR), flame-retardant properties, and low smoke density during a fire (LS0H – Low Smoke Zero Halogen). In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the technical details of solutions offered by industry leaders, such as Prysmian Group’s AFUMEX series and Hes Kablo N2XH, and explain why they should be essential for your projects. We will pay particular attention to the importance of the N2XH J cable variants, which include an earth conductor.
I. N2XH: Coding and Structural Superiority
The technical answer to What is N2XH cable? is embedded in its name, defined according to German VDE standards (compliant with TS HD 604 S1):
- N (Normenleitung): Signifies manufacturing in accordance with standards.
- 2X (XLPE): Indicates that the insulation material is Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE). This material allows the cable to operate continuously up to 90 °C and withstand up to 250 °C in short-circuit conditions, offering superior thermal performance compared to PVC.
- H (Halogen-Free): Specifies that the outer sheath and insulation are Halogen-Free (HFFR). This feature prevents the emission of toxic and corrosive gases during a fire (verified by the IEC 60754-1/2 test).
- -J (With Earth) / -O (Without Earth): The N2XH J cable version includes the yellow/green earth conductor for mandatory safety.
II. Fire Performance and International Standards
N2XH cables form the cornerstone of passive fire protection, with their performance validated by international standards:
A. Non-Flame Propagation and Spread Control
A cable’s potential to spread fire is one of the most critical tests. N2XH cables stop the flame from travelling along the cable itself. This property is typically tested according to the IEC 60332-1-2 standard. This test measures the resistance of a single cable to vertical flame propagation, proving the cable’s success in preventing fire from spreading to other areas.
Relevant Standard: For further information on the technical content of the IEC 60332-1-2 standard and how it prevents flame spread, please consult this external link:https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/1475
B. Low Smoke and Smoke Density
The vast majority of fire-related deaths result from the inhalation of toxic smoke and loss of visibility due to smoke. N2XH cables comply with the IEC 61034 standard, preventing the formation of dense smoke. This Low Smoke (LS0H) feature maximises life safety by keeping evacuation routes clear.
C. CPR and EN 50575 Classification
The Construction Products Regulation (CPR) classifies cable fire performance from Aca to Fca via the EN 50575 standard. N2XH cables typically fall into high-security classes such as Cca and Dca. These classifications indicate that the cable has been evaluated according to supplementary criteria like heat release rate, flame spread, smoke production (s1, s2, s3), and acidity level (a1, a2, a3).
Relevant Standard: Detailed information on the obligations of the EN 50575 standard under the CPR and the reaction-to-fire classifications (Euroclasses) for cables is available via this external link:https://www.cencenelec.eu/
III. Trusted Brands: Prysmian and Hes Kablo N2XH
To ensure reliability throughout the project lifecycle, the brand’s quality assurance is vital when selecting cables. Prysmian Group’s AFUMEX series, with its global experience and innovative technology, offers some of the highest CPR classes in N2XH cables. Similarly, Hes Kablo N2XH products, from a long-established local industry player, guarantee high security and longevity for your projects by fully complying with national and international standards like TS (Turkish Standards) and VDE.
IV. N2XH Cable Applications and N2XH J Cable Requirement
N2XH cables are used wherever fire safety is a legal priority. Critical areas where the N2XH J cable (earthed version) should be chosen include:
- Commercial and Public Buildings: Airports, metro stations, train stations, convention centres.
- Healthcare and Education: Hospitals, nursing homes, universities, and primary/secondary education facilities.
- Industrial Facilities: Control panels, data centres, and production halls containing high-value equipment.
The presence of the earth conductor in the N2XH J cable is an indispensable complementary element for electrical safety, particularly in all sockets and power circuits where equipment and personnel must be protected against electric shock.
Conclusion: Building the Future of Safety with N2XH
The answer to What is N2XH cable? is no longer just a technical definition; it is a commitment to safety that lies at the heart of modern building fire strategy. Choosing the N2XH J cable and -O versions not only ensures your project complies with strict international standards like IEC 60332 and EN 50575 but also provides a long-term investment guarantee through the quality of Hes Kablo N2XH and Prysmian AFUMEX. For all projects that do not compromise on life and property safety, N2XH is the clear and correct choice.
For more information on all N2XH J cable cross-sections, stock availability, and technical documentation, please visit Delta Tema Elektrik’s relevant product page. Prysmian N2XH-O / N2XH-J Product Page
