Plenum vs. Riser Rated Cables: Understanding the Differences

What is a Plenum-Rated Cable?

Plenum-rated cables are designed for use in air-handling spaces, such as drop ceilings and raised floors, where air circulates for HVAC systems. These cables must meet stringent fire safety standards because air ducts can facilitate the rapid spread of fire and smoke. Plenum cables are made with low-smoke, flame-retardant materials, typically fluorinated ethylene polymer (FEP) or low-smoke polyvinyl chloride (LS-PVC), to minimize toxic emissions in the event of a fire.

Key Features of Plenum Cables:

• Required in plenum spaces to meet fire codes.
• Constructed with fire-resistant, low-smoke materials.
• Typically more expensive than riser-rated cables due to enhanced safety features.
• Ensures compliance with NEC (National Electrical Code) standards.

What is a Riser-Rated Cable?

Riser-rated cables are intended for vertical spaces, such as shafts and between floors, where fire risk is present but not as severe as in plenum spaces. While not as stringent as plenum cables, riser-rated cables must still meet fire-resistance standards to prevent flames from traveling between floors. These cables are often constructed with PVC jacketing and include flame-retardant materials to help contain fire spread.

Key Features of Riser Cables:

• Used in riser spaces, such as between floors in vertical runs.
• Flame-retardant but not as strict as plenum-rated cables.
• Typically more affordable than plenum cables.
• Meets NEC standards for non-plenum applications.

Choosing Between Plenum and Riser Cables

The choice between Plenum and Riser cables depends on building codes and installation locations:

• If the cables will be installed in air-handling spaces, Plenum-rated cables are required.
• If the cables will run between floors in non-plenum spaces, Riser-rated cables are sufficient.
• Always check local building regulations to ensure compliance.

Whether you need Plenum-rated cables for HVAC spaces or Riser-rated cables for vertical applications, Trans Cable has you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our custom cable solutions and how we can support your next project.

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www.transcableusa.com