
FREE WHITEPAPER: Protecting Critical Electrical Circuits from Fire
Stringent safety codes require that critical electrical circuits are protected to ensure that power is maintained for emergency equipment in the event of a fire. Systems as:
- Fire alarm & emergency lighting
- Fire pumps
- Emergency elevators
- Smoke extraction fans
- Backup generators
Typically require a 2 hour fire resistance rating. However, differences in national and local code requirements can be confusing. Next to the varying codes, building engineers have a multitude of options on how to design and construct such critical circuits. Learn about important recent fire and electrical code changes and findings, including the NEC26 change now requiring 5” of concrete encasement when used with standard building wire – and the technologies at your disposal to meet them.
This download includes:
1. Protecting Critical Building Circuits from Fire
Whitepaper that lays out the evolution in fire safety codes and standards that have led to 5” of concrete encasement. Different methods to protect critical electrical circuits are explained and compared.
2. Fire Resistance of Concrete for Electrical Conductors
Research report published by the NFPA on the thermal protection of concrete during a fire. This groundbreaking research note led to the NEC26 code change requiring 5” of concrete vs. the long accepted practice of using just 2” of concrete, which only provided one hour of protection.
The Benefits of Pyrotenax System 1850 Mineral Insulated Cable
Litespeed Electric chose Pyrotenax mineral insulated (MI) 2 hour fire rated cable to protect this building’s emergency electrical equipment in New York City. The fire resistant wire saves up to 80% of space, compared to conventional conduit and wire systems. See how the entire MI system was installed in this case study.
INSTALLATION
Up to 33% less bracing required
Easy to pull smooth outer surface
Excellent for pulling through tight spaces
Easy to finish and install once pulled
Pyrotenax Website
Explore how we are helping designers build smarter on our website
Pyrotenax Blog
See how Pyrotenax ensures the highest fire safety standards on our blog


