Fire-Safe Cable Management for Solar Panels on Commercial Buildings
Solar panels are increasingly being installed on commercial buildings in the Netherlands – including roofs covering an area equivalent to several football pitches. These large roofs are often divided into fire compartments, separated by fire-resistant walls. These walls are designed to delay the spread of fire for 30, 60, 90 or even 120 minutes. The aim is to limit the spread of fire and minimise damage.
Cables Over Fire-Resistant Walls: Insurer Requirements
Many insurers require that cabling is not simply laid over a fire-resistant wall. If a cable route needs to cross from one fire compartment to another, strict requirements apply. The cable route must not compromise the fire resistance of the wall. The protection surrounding the cabling must provide at least the same level of fire resistance as the wall itself.
To prevent fire from spreading via the cabling, experts recommend routing cables over – rather than through – the fire-resistant wall. In doing so, it is essential that the cables are fully protected with a UV-resistant, fire-resistant covering.
The standard FireWrap has the following dimensions:
Width: 420 mm
Length: 400 mm
In addition, the FireWrap can be supplied in any required length upon request. The required length of the FireWrap is determined by the insurer. Conduct does not prescribe a standard distance for this.
Solution: Safe Bridging with RoofSupport and FireWrap
At Conduct, we continuously develop solutions for fire-safe PV installations. To ensure fire compartments can be crossed safely and correctly, we have developed two complementary products:
- RoofSupport Fire Wall Bracket
For securely routing and fastening solar cables over a fire-resistant wall. - RoofSupport FireWrap
A fire-resistant sleeve that can easily be fitted around the cabling. The FireWrap provides 60 minutes of protection against fire penetration – specifically designed to meet fire compartmentation requirements in commercial buildings.
Together, these products provide a robust solution for safe and durable cable management in solar PV installations on large roofs with fire compartments.