At D2 Integrated Systems, we prioritise your safety above all else. In our relentless pursuit of staying at the forefront of fire safety, we want to keep you informed about the latest guidelines and regulations that impact your safety measures. Today, we’ll delve into a vital aspect of fire safety: the new guidelines from the Fire Industry Association (FIA) that question whether all combustible plastic material within a fire enclosure must have a V-2 or superior flammability rating.
Understanding the FIA Guidelines
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) is a respected authority in the field of fire safety. Recently, they posed a fundamental question to the industry: Should all combustible plastic materials within a fire enclosure meet a V-2 or better flammability rating? This query has sparked discussions and prompted us to delve into the rationale behind this inquiry and what it entails for your safety.
The Significance of the Low Voltage Directive (LVD)
To comprehend the context better, let’s first explore the importance of the Low Voltage Directive (LVD). This directive, known as 2014/35/EU, lays down crucial safety standards for electrical equipment operating within specific voltage ranges—typically between 50-1000V AC and 75-1500V DC. Its core objective is to ensure that only safe electrical products reach the market. This is achieved by compelling manufacturers to demonstrate how their products align with essential safety objectives.
The LVD encompasses various elements, including:
- Power supplies.
- Control and indicating equipment with enclosed power supplies.
- Components (if they are an integral part of the equipment) and subassemblies of power supplies and control equipment, including batteries.
Embracing Updated Standards
Manufacturers use several approaches to showcase compliance with the LVD. Traditionally, the industry referred to safety standards EN IEC 60960-1 and EN IEC 60065. However, these standards have now been replaced by EN IEC 62368-1, marking a significant shift in our approach to safety standards. This transition occurred in December 2020 when IEC 60065 and IEC 60950-1 were withdrawn, and IEC 62368–1 took their place.
EN IEC 62368-1 plays a pivotal role in classifying energy sources and establishing safeguards against them. It also provides guidance on the application of these safeguards, with particular attention to fire-related safeguards and property protection.
The Role of Fire-Resistant Batteries
Manufacturers have a range of options to meet these stringent requirements, but one emerging trend is the design of enclosures that necessitate the use of fire-resistant batteries. This shift reflects our industry’s growing recognition of the paramount importance of fire safety.
In UL 94, which classifies flame flammability from least flame-retardant to most, the categories are as follows:
- HB: Slow burning on a horizontal specimen; burning rate < 76 mm/min for thickness < 3 mm or burning stops before 100 mm.
- V-2: Burning stops within 30 seconds on a vertical specimen; dripping of flaming particles is allowed.
- V-1: Burning stops within 30 seconds on a vertical specimen; dripping of particles allowed as long as they are not inflamed.
- V-0: Burning stops within 10 seconds on a vertical specimen; dripping of particles allowed as long as they are not inflamed.
Considerations for You
For our customers, particularly those involved in the installation and maintenance of fire safety equipment, it’s essential to engage in a dialogue with suppliers. Confirm any specific flammability requirements for the batteries you use. Once these requirements are established, the installation of batteries with the appropriate flammability rating becomes a vital component of your safety measures.
It is noteworthy that, in some cases, the use of flame-retardant batteries (e.g., UL 94 V2 or higher) may be advisable, even when not explicitly mandated by regulations. This approach underscores your proactive commitment to fire safety.
In Conclusion
Your safety is our top priority at D2 Integrated. Understanding the significance of fire-resistant batteries under the Low Voltage Directive is pivotal in ensuring that fire safety remains at the forefront of our industry. By adhering to these requirements, you contribute to a safer environment for all. Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s continue to champion fire safety together.
For further updates and information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Your safety matters, and we’re here to help you navigate these important developments.
Telephone 01634 713000
Email info@d2is.co.uk