The Role of Aluminum Hydroxide in Cable Compounds

In the modern electrical and communication industries, ensuring safety and performance is paramount. One critical component that significantly enhances cable materials is aluminum hydroxide (ATH). As a highly effective flame retardant and smoke suppressant, ATH is widely used in cable compounds to improve fire resistance, durability, and environmental sustainability.

Why Aluminum Hydroxide?

Aluminum hydroxide is a naturally occurring mineral with excellent fire-retardant properties. When exposed to high temperatures, it decomposes and releases water vapor, which helps cool the material and suppress flames without producing toxic gases. This makes ATH an ideal choice for halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) cable compounds, which are increasingly preferred in industries prioritizing safety and environmental protection.

Key Benefits of ATH in Cable Compounds:

1. Effective Flame Retardancy – ATH helps cables meet stringent fire safety regulations by slowing down the spread of flames.
2. Low Smoke & Non-Toxic – Unlike traditional halogenated flame retardants, ATH does not release toxic or corrosive gases when exposed to fire.
3. Improved Thermal Stability – Enhances the heat resistance of cable insulation, prolonging service life.
4. Environmentally Friendly – Non-toxic and non-halogenated, making it compliant with global environmental standards such as RoHS and REACH.
5. Enhanced Electrical Insulation – Provides excellent dielectric properties, making it suitable for power and communication cables.

Applications in the Cable Industry

ATH is extensively used in various cable applications, including:

• Power Cables – Ensures fire safety in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems.
• Data & Communication Cables – Reduces fire hazards in data centers and telecommunication networks.
• Automotive & Railway Cables – Enhances safety in transportation systems.
• Mining & Industrial Cables – Provides reliable fire resistance in high-risk environments.