Published: 8 April 2015
Category: Manufacturer News
LOBAC self-extinguishing cables give you the upper hand.
Self-extinguishing cables give you the upper hand.
Are you in need of a low voltage overhead cable that can face up to a bushfire? LOBAC has a selfextinguishing insulation with the ability to resist fast paced fires and help prevent their spread. The cable can continue to function and supply power even after the fire front has passed. The cable complies with and exceeds AS/NZS 3560.1. Australian made? Yes, of course.
LOBAC
Background
Prysmian introduces an innovative variation to its range of aerial cables complying with AS/NZS 3560.1 that are designed to enhance the bush fire survivability of overhead cables.
Clashing of bare overhead power lines was identified as a major cause of bush fires. Low voltage aerial bundled cables were
developed and have been in service in Australia from the early 1980’s. These cables are insulated with a cross linked polyethylene having good abrasion and UV resistance.
Prysmian Enhanced Performance Product
Prysmian’s enhanced cable solution utilising X-90 UV HR compound exceeds the requirements of AS/NZS 3560.1 for heat radiation performance. The specified test only requires the cable system to maintain circuit integrity for a short duration. Prysmian cable not only maintains circuit integrity for the duration of the test, it provides the added safety feature of self-extinguishing insulation allowing continued functioning of the circuit after exposure to fire. These performance features could be useful in practice by potentially allowing planned replacement of affected circuits as opposed to high cost emergency wholesale replacement operations.
Prysmian’s designated X-90 UV HR compound affords enhanced resistance against the effect from fast paced fire (heat and flames) passing close to the overhead cables. X-90 UV HR is self-extinguishing whereas generic XLPE solutions continue to burn to failure.
The construction of the cable and its physical characteristics are identical to existing products (standard LV ABC construction)
maintaining complete compatibility with standard practices and accessories.
Bush Fire Resistant Low Voltage Aerial Bundle Cables
(LOBAC or LVABC)
Applicable standards
AS/NZS 3560.1 Aluminium cables.
Stock product range
Aluminium cables – 2 core, 3 core & 4 core constructions.
Common sizes supported – 25, 35, 50, 70, 95, 120 &
150 mm².
Construction
Prysmian X-90 UV HR – cross linked polyethylene with 2 %
carbon black – UV resistant.