DIN VDE 0472 Cable

DIN VDE 0472 standard cables are categorised according to the length of time during which they can maintain their circuit integrity in the event of extended flame exposure under mechanically unstressed connection. The duration of time is referenced in their FE classification:

DIN VDE 0472 Cable - FE: Extended flame exposure duration 

FE60 cables - 60 minutes (1 hour)
FE90 cables - 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
FE120 cables - 120 minutes (2 hours)

DIN VDE 0472 Standard and International Standard Equivalents

DIN VDE 0472 is similar to the British Standard BS 6387 Cat C, and to the International Standard IEC 60331 (FE). It assesses the resistance of a single insulated cable and bunches of cables against vertical flame propagation. As with other national and international standards agencies, there are numerous sub-sections to circuit integrity tests and flame resistance:

According to DIN VDE 0472, the test requires the cable to be thermally stressed by the application of a propane-gas burner, the flame of which shall be 125mm and/or 175mm in height. In order to achieve compliance to VDE 0472 Part 804, there should either be no flaming of the cable at all, or the flame should extinguish itself after the burner is removed before it reaches the upper end of the cable being tested. 

Technical Support with cables manufactured to DIN VDE 0472

Eland Cables’ technical engineers have vast experience of providing technical support in relation to fire performance cables including the Socapex cable for lighting technology applications and NHXH and NHXCH cables manufactured in accordance with VDE 0472 as well as other international standards. Please contact us to discuss your specific application.