What You Need to Know about Plenum Cables

Plenum cables are usually used in plenum spaces of a building. These are areas primarily used for air circulation typical in heating as well as air conditioning systems. It’s usually located between the structural and suspended ceiling. It can also be under a raised floor. You’ll easily find the building’s communication cables for the computer as well as the telephone network in that space.

Plenum Wires and Cables

In plenum spaces, only plenum wires and cables are approved for use, in accordance to the requirements of the National Electrical Code or NEC on ducts, plenums as well as for any other air-handling spaces. According to the Electrical Contractor or EC Mag, NEC rules specifically state that electrical installations in hollow spaces, then vertical shafts, ventilation or air-handling ducts must be carried out. This is to keep fire from spreading or products from combusting and generating smoke. Before you attempt to figure out which wiring methods should work on your building, make sure you understand what the different terminologies. Familiarity with air-handling systems will help you in your search for the right plenum wires and cables. The NEC is published by the National Fire Protection Association, says the Communications Cable & Connectivity Association or CCCA.

Uses

A plenum cable is typically installed in buildings for use in voice as well as data circuits. Cable routing in return air spaces also uses plenum cables throughout a building. Since Plenum products like wires and cables are often flame-resistant. When a fire happens, it keeps toxic fumes or smoke from breaking out and resulting into a bigger mess. That’s one way to keep casualties and damage down to zero.

Pros and Cons

Plenum cables are up to code and meet strict electrical as well as building requirements. This is especially true for cases that involve low smoke generation along with the low spread of flame. With plenum cables, you have just what you need to make sure you’re safe and sound, along with the rest of the employees, when a fire breaks out at work.

The major con is that, plenum cables cost a lot more than non-plenum cables. This makes it a little out of reach of small operators.

Conclusion

Know more about air-handling spaces before you install plenum wires and cables. For a choice of plenum products, we have a range of choices you can explore and choose from. So browse our site and get in touch with us today.