The xSiCute Guide to Cable CPR EuroClasses

The following xSiCute Guide to CPR can be downloaded as a PDF by clicking here

Fire, and how quickly it spreads has become a vitally important issue. xSiCute is at the forefront in terms of complying with CPR (Constructors Product Regulation) which has standardised cable classes (Euro Classes) across Europe and rates how quickly cable reacts to fire spread, heat release, smoke production, acid gas production and flaming droplets. Euro Classes range from the highest performing Aca to lowest performing Fca. Testing of cables to the standard is carried out by approved Notified Organisations administered under the NANDO (New Approach Notified and Designated Organisations) system.

EuroClass Aca does not burn but it’s not possible for datacomms copper or fibre cable to meet Aca as it would need to be mineral sheathed so would not have the required mechanical or electrical performance. BS 6701 A1 states that “Installation cables” shall, as a minimum, meet the requirements of EuroClass Cca-s1b,d2,a2. Installation cables are intended for use in pathways, below floors, above ceilings, behind walls or where access is limited, and are terminated insitu or pre-terminated and installed inside the buildings external fire barrier.  The external fire barrier is the first barrier encountered by any service passing into the building. BS6701 A1 also defines “other cables” which shall as a minimum meet the requirements of EuroClass Eca or BS EN 60332-1-2. Patch leads would be considered as "other cable." However, when they are installed inside a building in a pathway that is hidden, or where access is limited then it is considered to be an installation cable and should meet Cca-s1b,d2,a2 as a minimum. Fca cable should not be used within a building so typically applies to external applications.

The CPR class will be displayed on the cable sheath and/or the manufacturers reel or box. Cable manufacturers are required to produce a DoP (Declaration of Performance) which can be seen by the user.

The table below explains the CPR classifications. So, for example a full cable CPR classification could be Cca-s1a,d1,a1.