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1. What is the EN 50200 Test? 

The **EN 50200 Test** is a European standard used to evaluate the **fire resistance** of cables, ensuring they can maintain **circuit integrity** under fire conditions. This test simulates real-life fire scenarios, including exposure to flames and mechanical impacts caused by structural collapse or falling debris. 

Key Objectives: 

• Ensure cables maintain power or signal transmission during a fire.
• Simulate real fire conditions, including flame and physical impacts.
• Certify cables for use in critical safety systems.

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2. EN 50200 Test Procedure 

The test includes the following steps: 

1. Test Setup: 
- The cable is mounted on a test rig simulating typical installation conditions (e.g., wall mounting). 
- A flame burner and mechanical impact rig are positioned near the cable. 

2. Fire Exposure: 
- A flame at **830°C** is applied to the cable. 
- Test duration depends on the required classification: 
  - **PH30:** 30 minutes. 
  - **PH60:** 60 minutes. 
  - **PH90:** 90 minutes. 
  - **PH120:** 120 minutes. 

3. Mechanical Impact: 
- Every **5 minutes**, the cable is struck by a weight or hammer, simulating falling debris. 

4. Voltage Monitoring: 
- A low voltage (e.g., 12V) is applied to the cable to ensure circuit continuity. 
- Any loss of continuity or short-circuit results in failure. 

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3. Performance Criteria 

To pass the EN 50200 test, the cable must: 

• Maintain circuit integrity throughout the test duration.
• Resist mechanical impacts without failure.
• Prevent insulation breakdown or conductor damage.

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4. EN 50200 Classifications 

Cables are classified based on the duration of fire resistance: 

• PH30: Maintains circuit integrity for 30 minutes.
• PH60: Maintains circuit integrity for 60 minutes.
• PH90: Maintains circuit integrity for 90 minutes.
• PH120: Maintains circuit integrity for 120 minutes.

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5. Applications of EN 50200-Compliant Cables 

Cables passing the EN 50200 test are essential for systems requiring fire resistance, such as: 

• Fire Alarm Systems: Ensures alarms remain functional during fires.
• Emergency Lighting Systems: Provides illumination for safe evacuation.
• Life Safety Systems: Powers critical systems, such as smoke control or fire pumps.
• Industrial Control Systems: Maintains operation in high-risk environments.

Example Use Case: 
A fire alarm system in a high-rise building requires EN 50200-compliant cables to ensure the alarms function for **90 minutes (PH90)**, allowing occupants time to evacuate safely. 

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6. Comparison with Other Fire Tests 

EN 50200 vs. BS 6387: 

• **EN 50200:** Tests combined fire and mechanical impacts on the same cable sample.
• **BS 6387:** Conducts fire, water, and mechanical shock tests on separate cable samples.

EN 50200 vs. EN 50399: 

• **EN 50200:** Focuses on circuit integrity during fire exposure.
• **EN 50399:** Measures flame spread, heat release, and smoke production.

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7. Conclusion 

The **EN 50200 test** ensures cables can maintain circuit integrity under fire conditions, including exposure to flames and mechanical impacts. It is essential for verifying the safety and reliability of cables used in **fire alarms, emergency lighting, and life safety systems**. 

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