The Challenge

Building wire cables must deliver exceptional electrical performance while meeting strict fire safety and environmental requirements. Traditional flame retardants, though effective, often contain halogens and can release toxic or corrosive gases, creating safety and environmental concerns in enclosed spaces. Manufacturers need to balance low smoke, halogen-free performance, mechanical strength, and electrical properties, while ensuring consistent processability and compliance with multiple international standards, especially in high-density installations where both safety and reliability are critical.

The Solution

Kisuma™ 5JL is a low-smoke, zero-halogen (LSZH) flame retardant used in wire and cable formulations. It enables cables to meet UL LSZH certification and provides:

• Superior electrical properties for reliable long term insulation resistance, including low moisture absorption and high dielectric strength.

• Fire safety: VW-1 flame performance even on 14 AWG.

• Crosslinking versatility: suitable for peroxide, moisture cure, and radiation methods.

• Relevant building wire standards: UL 44 – XHHW-2, CSA – RW-90, UL 83, UL 1581.

• Can also be used for compliance with UL 444 CMR/CMP, UL 1685/IEEE 1202, UL 1666, NFPA 262, IEEE 1580 (shipboard cable), IEC 60092-351 (shipboard cable)

The Outcome

Formulations with Kisuma™ 5JL produce electrically reliable, fire-safe, and process-efficient cables, while meeting stringent national safety standards for residential, commercial and industrial power distribution.