Bromine- and Lead-Free Compound for Plenum Cable Addresses Environmental Concerns without Sacrificing Performance

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ATLANTA, May 14, 2001: The first lead- and bromine-free grade of Fireguard low-flame, low-smoke compound for plenum cable jacketing provides electrical, flame, and processing properties like those of other grades in this widely specified product line while meeting stringent regulatory requirements regarding compound ingredients, it was announced today by the Vinyl Division of Teknor Apex. The company is introducing the new grade, Fireguard 910-LBF, at Interwire 2001 (Booth 3720).

Although manufacturers of plenum-cable compounds have typically used bromine flame retardants and lead heat stabilizers because of their high efficiency, some regulatory jurisdictions now mandate extremely low levels of lead extractibles, and in Scandinavian countries bromine additives are banned.

"The alternative additive package developed by Teknor Apex for Fireguard 910-LBF provides the high level of heat stability needed to retain critical end-use properties, plus the outstanding flame and smoke behavior required to pass the industry's most stringent fire test," said Donald G. Ouellette, Industry Manager. "At the same time, this new compound exhibits strength and electricals comparable to those of conventional Fireguard products and can be extruded at the same high throughput rates."

Fireguard 910-LBF is for use in jacketing for copper and fiber optic communication cables in plenum applications. It exceeds all applicable test performance specified in UL Subjects 13, 1424, and 444.

Fireguard is a registered trademark