What is the BS EN 6387?

The BS EN 6387 is a technical standard that is widely used in various industries and sectors. It is designed to provide guidelines and specifications for the performance and safety requirements of electrical cables in harsh environments.

Characteristics of BS EN 6387

The BS EN 6387 considers several factors to ensure the reliability and durability of electrical cables in challenging conditions, such as high temperatures, exposure to chemicals, and mechanical stresses. These cables must meet specific resistance criteria, including fire resistance, circuit integrity, and insulation performance.

This standard defines different categories to classify cables based on their ability to withstand fire. The classifications include F0 and F120, with F120 being the highest fire resistance rating. Additionally, it provides specifications for the circuit integrity of the cables, ensuring that they can maintain functionality during a fire for a certain period of time.

Testing and Certification

In order to comply with BS EN 6387 standards, manufacturers must subject their cables to rigorous testing procedures. These tests evaluate various aspects of the cables' performance under adverse conditions.

One of the primary tests is the fire resistance test, where a cable is exposed to high temperatures and flame to assess its ability to withstand fire. This test involves monitoring parameters such as flame spread, heat release, and smoke emission to determine the cable's compliance with the fire resistance rating.

Cables that successfully pass all the necessary tests can obtain certification indicating their compliance with the BS EN 6387 standard. This certification assures customers and end-users that the cables meet the required safety and performance standards for usage in specific applications.

Applications of BS EN 6387

The BS EN 6387 standard is particularly important in industries where the risk of fire is high, such as oil and gas, chemical plants, power generation, and transportation. These sectors rely on electrical cables for critical operations, and any failure can have severe consequences.

By adhering to the BS EN 6387 standard, these industries can ensure that their electrical cables are capable of maintaining functionality during a fire, potentially preventing further damage or accidents. Additionally, the standard plays a crucial role in maintaining overall safety in buildings, ensuring the protection of lives and property.