How HFFR Cables Are Powering Safe Infrastructure in Metros, Airports, and Data Centres
In today’s world of complex infrastructure, where uninterrupted operation and human safety go hand-in-hand, fire safety has become non-negotiable. Whether it’s a bustling metro station, a sprawling international airport, or a mission-critical data centre, a small electrical fire can result in significant damage, loss of life, and operational downtime.
This is where HFFR (Halogen-Free Flame Retardant) cables step in. Designed to offer superior flame resistance while eliminating toxic halogen emissions, these cables have become the backbone of safe electrical systems across critical sectors. Their growing use in metros, airports, and data centres underscores the rising need for intelligent, fire-safe cabling solutions in modern infrastructure.
What Are HFFR Cables and Why Are They Important?
HFFR cables are engineered to limit fire hazards without releasing harmful halogen gases when exposed to high temperatures. Unlike conventional PVC or XLPE cables, HFFR cables emit minimal smoke and no corrosive or toxic gases during combustion, ensuring safer evacuation and minimal damage to equipment.
Key Features:
- Halogen-free: No release of toxic gases like chlorine or fluorine
- Flame retardant: Slows the spread of fire
- Low smoke emission: Enhances visibility during evacuation
- Environmentally safer: Better for human health and sensitive electronic systems
Uses of HFFR Cables in Metro Rail Systems
HFFR cables in metro systems and railways play a pivotal role in ensuring commuter safety. Given the enclosed nature of underground tunnels and high passenger density, the potential impact of a fire is magnified.
Applications:
- Signalling and communication systems
- Tunnel and platform lighting
- Control panels and emergency circuits
These cables not only meet stringent safety requirements like EN 45545 (European standard for fire safety in railway vehicles), but also ensure minimal disruption during fire incidents. Their superior performance allows metro systems to maintain reliable and safe operations even under critical conditions.
Uses of HFFR Cables in Airports
From power supply to complex data networks, airports rely on massive electrical infrastructure that operates around the clock. The use of HFFR cables in airports ensures that fire risks are mitigated without compromising on efficiency or performance.
Where They’re Used:
- Terminal building power and lighting
- Air traffic control systems
- Baggage handling and security systems
- HVAC and emergency communication lines
In such dense, climate-controlled environments, the low-smoke and zero-halogen characteristics of HFFR cables contribute significantly to passenger safety, compliance, and operational continuity.
Uses of HFFR Cables in Data Centres
Data centres are highly sensitive environments where fire can cause irreversible damage, not just to hardware, but also to data integrity and service uptime. This makes the use of HFFR cables in data centres a critical decision.
Key Applications:
- Power Distribution Units (PDUs)
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)
- Server racks and patch panels
- Backbone and structured cabling
HFFR cables ensure that even in the rare event of a fire, the release of smoke and toxic gases is minimised, protecting both personnel and electronic equipment. They are also easier to manage thermally, thanks to their high heat resistance.
Key Benefits of Using HFFR Cables Across All Sectors
Regardless of the application, HFFR cables deliver critical advantages that make them a preferred choice in safety-first infrastructure projects:
- Superior flame retardance with no toxic gas emission
HFFR cables significantly reduce the spread of fire while ensuring that no corrosive or poisonous halogen gases are released during combustion, making evacuation and rescue operations safer. - Enhanced thermal and mechanical durability
These cables are designed to withstand high temperatures and mechanical stress, ensuring reliable performance even in demanding and high-load environments. - Longer service life and reduced maintenance
Due to their robust construction and resistance to heat and chemical degradation, HFFR cables have an extended operational lifespan with minimal wear and tear, lowering the need for frequent replacements. - Compliance with global fire safety regulations
HFFR cables meet stringent international safety standards such as EN 45545 and IEC 60332, making them suitable for regulated and safety-sensitive sectors. - Minimised operational downtime during emergencies
Their ability to contain fire and limit smoke damage helps infrastructure recover faster, reducing business interruptions and service outages. - Reduced damage to sensitive equipment and assets
The non-corrosive and low-smoke properties protect electronics, machinery, and structural components from fire-related degradation, preserving the integrity of the facility.
Industry Certifications & Standards
To ensure optimal safety and performance, HFFR cables must comply with global fire safety standards that assess various aspects of fire behaviour, toxicity, and structural integrity.
- EN 50267 – Halogen-free properties
This standard verifies that the cable materials do not emit corrosive or toxic halogen gases when exposed to fire, ensuring reduced risk to people and electronic equipment. - IEC 60332 – Flame retardant tests
It evaluates the cable’s ability to resist and limit the propagation of flames, helping prevent fire from spreading along cable routes. - UL 1685 – Smoke and heat release tests
This standard measures both the quantity of smoke released and the heat generated by burning cables, ensuring safer conditions for evacuation and reduced damage. - EN 45545 – Railway-specific fire safety standards
Developed specifically for rail applications, this standard sets rigorous fire performance requirements for materials used in rolling stock to protect passengers and infrastructure.
Compliance with these standards is vital, especially in public infrastructure and mission-critical facilities, where safety can never be compromised.
Bottom Line
As infrastructure grows more complex and densely populated, HFFR cables are proving to be indispensable. Their ability to combine fire safety, environmental responsibility, and long-term performance makes them a natural fit for metros, airports, and data centres alike.
By adopting these advanced cabling solutions, industries can not only protect lives and assets but also future-proof their operations against evolving safety and compliance norms. It’s not just about powering systems anymore; it’s about powering them safely.
At Shakun Polymers, we take pride in our Ecotek range of Halogen-Free Flame Retardant (HFFR) compounds, engineered to deliver safety, performance, and sustainability. Based on advanced polyolefin formulations and compliant with RoHS standards, Ecotek offers long-term reliability and can be tailored to suit diverse cable applications. With Ecotek, we help manufacturers build smarter, safer, and more eco-conscious wire and cable systems.