UL 2196:2020 PDF Download

UL 2196:2020 is a standard that evaluates the integrity of power, control, instrumentation, and data cables in maintaining circuit integrity during standard fire test exposure and associated hose stream test. The standard covers cables intended to comply with electrical codes and building codes in Canada and the United States.

Power, control, and instrumentation cables are subjected to fire exposure as per CAN/ULC-S101 and ANSI/UL 263. These cables are continuously energized at their maximum rated voltage or maximum utilization voltage and assessed for circuit integrity. Insulation resistance measurements are taken to measure leakage current. Following the fire test, the cables are exposed to a hose stream test.

Data cables are also subjected to fire exposure according to CAN/ULC-S101 and ANSI/UL 263. These cables are evaluated for their ability to maintain error-free data transfer and retrieval at specified protocols and data rates. After the fire test, the assembly undergoes a hose stream test.

It is important to note that the fire exposure and hose stream tests do not represent all possible fire conditions and impact conditions. The performance of cables may vary depending on factors such as fire loading, ventilation, compartment size and configuration, and heat conducting characteristics. The standardized tests provide a relative measure of fire performance for comparable assemblies under specific conditions. Any variation in construction or operating conditions can significantly affect cable performance.

The purpose of the standard is to provide a benchmark for comparing the fire performance of cables and determining their acceptability for specific applications. The furnace construction, general test conditions, and requirements align with CAN/ULC S101 and ANSI/UL 263.