Which insulation material is commonly used on plenum-rated cable?

Which insulation material is commonly used on plenum-rated cable?

• A. Polyethylene
• B. PTFE/Teflon
• C. Polypropylene
• D. PVC

Answer: (B)

In spaces that handle circulating air (plenums), cables must use insulation that minimizes smoke and toxic fumes if a fire occurs. PTFE, commonly known as Teflon, is a fluoropolymer with excellent heat resistance and very low smoke and toxic gas emission when burned. That makes it the preferred insulation material for plenum-rated cable, since it helps keep the air in the plenum safer during a fire. Polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC insulation tend to burn more readily and produce more smoke and harmful gases, which is why they aren’t typically used for plenum-rated cables.

In spaces that handle circulating air (plenums), cables must use insulation that minimizes smoke and toxic fumes if a fire occurs. PTFE, commonly known as Teflon, is a fluoropolymer with excellent heat resistance and very low smoke and toxic gas emission when burned. That makes it the preferred insulation material for plenum-rated cable, since it helps keep the air in the plenum safer during a fire.

Polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC insulation tend to burn more readily and produce more smoke and harmful gases, which is why they aren’t typically used for plenum-rated cables.