N2XH Halogen-Free Power Cables Selection Guide
When selecting N2XH (0.6/1 kV) halogen-free power cables, compare XLPE insulation, LSZH CPR fire performance, conductor cross-section and differences vs NYY cables.
This guide explains what to look for when choosing products in the N2XH Cables category for low-voltage power distribution in hospitals, schools, shopping malls, data centers and commercial buildings.
XLPE insulation (90 °C) and LSZH halogen-free fire performance
Rated at 0.6/1 kV, N2XH power cables combine cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) core insulation with a low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH / HFFR) outer sheath. Because XLPE operates continuously at 90 °C (compared to 70 °C for PVC-insulated NYY cables), N2XH cables carry higher current for the same copper cross-section while emitting minimal smoke and zero corrosive halogen acid gases during a fire.
Core configuration and cross-section sizing (1.5 mm² – 240+ mm²)
Final lighting and socket radial circuits typically use 3×1.5 mm² and 3×2.5 mm²; three-phase sub-distribution boards and HVAC/machine feeders use 4×4 mm² – 4×16 mm² or 5×2.5 mm² – 5×35 mm²; and main risers use reduced-neutral 3×50/25 mm² – 3×240/120 mm² or single-core (1×) N2XH cables on cable trays.
N2XH power cable comparison table
| Selection Criterion | N2XH (Halogen-Free Power Cable) | NYY (PVC Power Cable) | NHXMH (Halogen-Free Installation Cable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rated Voltage | 0.6/1 kV | 0.6/1 kV | 300/500 V |
| Insulation / Sheath | XLPE insulation (90 °C) + LSZH/HFFR sheath | PVC insulation (70 °C) + PVC outer sheath | XLPE/HFFR insulation + HFFR sheath |
| Fire Behavior | Flame-retardant, low smoke, zero halogen | Emits dense black smoke & corrosive HCl gas | Low-smoke zero-halogen indoor wiring cable |
| Typical Application | Public buildings, high-rises, trays & risers | Direct burial & outdoor utility distribution | Indoor final branch lighting & socket wiring |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between N2XH and NYY power cables?
N2XH uses 90 °C XLPE insulation and a halogen-free LSZH jacket that prevents toxic gas and dense smoke in fires, making it mandatory in public and commercial buildings. NYY uses 70 °C PVC insulation and is primarily used for outdoor or underground utility runs.
Does standard N2XH provide circuit integrity (FE180 / E90) during a fire?
Standard N2XH is flame-retardant and halogen-free, but where life-safety circuits (fire pumps, smoke extraction fans, emergency lighting) must continue operating during an active fire, specify N2XH FE180 / E90 fire-resistant cables with mica tape barriers.
What does the slash notation (such as 3×70/35 mm²) mean on N2XH cables?
In four-conductor heavy feeder cables, the first number (3×70 mm²) specifies the cross-section of the three phase conductors, while the number after the slash (35 mm²) indicates the reduced-cross-section neutral or protective conductor.