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- Structured Cabling
What are the CPR regulations for data cables
Building and construction cables manufactured after July 1, 2017, are subject to the Construction Product Regulation (CPR). So what are the CPR regulations for data cables?
The CPR covers all construction products, including power cables, to classify them by fire response. In addition any product on the market before this date may keep on to be sold and supplied without the orientation to CPR. The cables are rated depending on the properties of their flames. In addition the ratings are from A to F with the product checked and Euroclass rated. Furthermore there is additional classification according to their smoke, flammable droplets, and acidity rating).
It aims to create harmonious production standards and a common language across Europe and help buyers make better-informed decisions. It should be noted that while this is mandatory for all European countries, the minimum requirement CPR Euro rating may vary from country to country. Therefore some countries have adopted a minimum rating. In contrast some have adopted a risk assessment method. Furthermore others, such as the United Kingdom, have a minimum rating but a higher rating is recommended.
Compliance with CPR is mandatory and has implications in the supply chain. However most of the responsibility falls on manufacturers, importers, and distributors. The onus is then also on the installer to expand their education in to the correct choice of cable and its intended use.
An in depth guide from one of our chosen manufacturers can be found here for more information
Testing
Testing must be done by a body or laboratory. These labs are expensive to install and need to be monitored by a supervisory body. The basic standards of flame spread and heat release are tested according to EN 60332-1-2 (small scale) and EN 50399 (large scale) burn to test. There are additional standards for smoke opacity, droplets falling during combustion, and smoke acidity. For classes E and F, the required test is the burn test, and for the upper classes, smoke and toxicity are measured.
Classification
The rating is based on the use of Euroclass. Thus a uniform assessment rating that reflects the real-life environment for construction products. For cables, Euroclass appreciates the response to fire performance. Relevant Euroclasses for CPR rating include B1ca B2ca CCA DCA Eka and FCA.
Once a product has been tested by a laboratory, manufacturers are issued documentation of observance with the valid Euroclass for that cable. The class is then used in labeling.
Labeling
Firstly CE markings must be installed by CPR update regulations. The CE mark should be on the product (rail) and packaging label. Label Declaration Performance (DOP) Number, Declared Performance (Class BCA, CCA, DCA or ECA), Notified Reference to Compatible Standard, Notified Body or Notified Laboratory Identification It is also important to quote the number and the desired product. The markings on the cable itself should include a historical reference to the standard of conformity and identify the CPR class (B2CA, CCA, DCA, or ECA).
What is CPR Compliance?
CE Labeling – This is the fastest way to identify a cable according to CPR. Thus CE marking is already a legal requirement, but it now requires additional information to help detect, including CPR classification. CE labels can be on cable or cable packaging. They indicate cable testing by a notified body. Operated independently of manufacturers and suppliers, this rating requires Performance Continuity and Performance Performance (AVCP).
So what do I need to do?
There is a legal requirement that relevant cables manufactured after July 1, 2017, must comply with CPR. As an end-user, it is your responsibility to ensure that the CE labeling is present on the cable or packaging and check that there is a CPR rating where appropriate. Remember, cables placed on the market before this date are not subject to this legislation and can be installed as such. Once again this is subject to country by country adoption
End users are urged to be practical in selecting and specifying cables. It is also important that the cable selected meets other national, international, and industry standards. Each installation must be considered in the light of specific country-specific regulations.
What is the purpose of the CPR?
Construction Product Regulation (CPR) provides consistent conditions for the marketing of data cabling products about their performance. This is achieved by providing a “common technical language” that allows for similar methods to be used to evaluate the performance of data cabling products. Furthermore to compare the performance of products from different manufacturers in different countries.
These methods are formulated in terms of compatibility standards or technical features.
What benefits does CPR regulations for data cables generate?
CPR created a high level of protection for all elements of the installation process. This includes those during the installation phase and those occupying the buildings after the completion
The same level of protection for all end users. National requirements are regulated and not just recommended. Once non-compliance is detected, national authorities may enforce the withdrawal of unsecured cables from the market.
Users of construction products can better define their performance requirements because:
The manufacturer assumes full responsibility for the performance in the performance declaration which is a legally binding document (the consequences of non-compliance may be catastrophic for the manufacturer). The performance appraisal and sustainability assessment is defined by the performance appraisal and validation of the performance appraisal and conducted by third-party entities. Market monitoring is more efficient because one can rely on general information structures and dedicated resources
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