N2XH FE180 (E90) Fire-Resistant Power Cables Selection Guide
When selecting N2XH FE180 (0.6/1 kV) fire-resistant power cables, compare mica-tape insulation integrity (FE180), E30/E60/E90 system continuity and differences vs N2XH.
This guide explains what to look for when choosing products in the N2XH FE180 Cables category for life-safety power circuits that must continue operating during an active fire, including fire pumps, smoke extraction fans, stairwell pressurization fans and emergency lighting.
Understanding FE180 (Insulation Integrity) and E30 / E60 / E90 (System Circuit Integrity)
Rated at 0.6/1 kV, N2XH FE180 (and NHXH FE180) cables wrap each copper conductor in a glass mica tape thermal barrier beneath XLPE/HFFR insulation and a low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) outer sheath:
- FE180 (IEC 60331): Certifies that the cable alone maintains electrical insulation under direct flame exposure (≥750 °C) for 180 minutes without short-circuiting.
- E30 / E60 / E90 (DIN 4102-12): Certifies that the complete installed cable + fire-rated tray/clamp support system maintains functional power delivery for 30, 60 or 90 minutes during a fire.
Critical difference between standard N2XH and N2XH FE180
Standard N2XH cables are halogen-free and flame-retardant, but their insulation melts when engulfed in direct fire. Any life-safety load that must stay energized during building evacuation and firefighting requires N2XH FE180.
N2XH FE180 fire-resistant cable comparison table
| Selection Criterion | N2XH FE180 / E90 (Fire-Resistant Power) | Standard N2XH (Halogen-Free Power) | JE-H(St)H FE180 (Fire-Resistant Signal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage Rating | 0.6/1 kV life-safety power feeder | 0.6/1 kV general building power feeder | 300 V fire alarm & voice evacuation loop |
| Barrier Construction | Mica glass tape + XLPE/HFFR + LSZH jacket | XLPE insulation + LSZH jacket (no mica barrier) | Mica-taped twisted pairs + foil screen + orange LSZH |
| Operation in Fire | 180 min insulation integrity (FE180), E30/E60/E90 | Self-extinguishing & LSZH, but does not run in fire | Maintains fire detection, siren & PA signaling in fire |
| Typical Application | Fire pumps, smoke extraction/pressurization fans, emergency lights | Normal lighting, sockets, HVAC & general risers | Fire alarm control panels, detectors, call points & sounders |
Frequently asked questions
Which building circuits require N2XH FE180 / E90 cables?
Fire protection regulations mandate circuit-integrity cables for fire booster pumps, smoke exhaust and stairwell pressurization fans, firefighter elevators, emergency escape lighting and fire alarm power supplies.
Can N2XH FE180 cables be fastened with plastic cable ties or nylon wall plugs?
No. To achieve E30/E60/E90 system circuit integrity, cables must be supported on fire-tested steel brackets, metal clips and steel anchors so the cable run does not collapse when exposed to fire temperatures.
What cross-sections are most common for N2XH FE180 circuits?
Emergency lighting and damper circuits use 3×1.5 mm² and 3×2.5 mm²; smoke extraction and pressurization fans use 4×2.5 mm² – 4×16 mm² or 5×2.5 mm² – 5×16 mm²; and main fire pump feeders use 4×25 mm² up to 3×240/120 mm².