Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions Page. We are compiling questions and answers that we are typically asked to help guide our clients and partners on the right choice of CharCoat product, approval, and application techniques. This is a dynamic page and one that will constantly be updated too. So please check back occasionally to update your CharCoat knowledge.
What is CharCoat CC Cable Coating?
CharCoat CC is a flexible Fire Rated latex based intumescent Coating that expands under fire (and heat) to protect electrical cables for up to 90 minutes in Hydrocarbon and Non-hydrocarbon environments (tested under IEC60331-11 and IEC60331-21).
Is CharCoat CC FM Approved?
CharCoat CC was previously tested and approved to FM3971: 1992, but is now no longer listed.
What is the WFT and DFT for CharCoat CC?
Wet Film Thickness is approx. 3mm for a minimum Dry Film Thickness of 1.6mm
Why is CharCoat CC the ultimate / desired choice?
Traditionally cable coatings were installed to stop spread of flame on the cable surfaces based on Factory Mutual’s (FM Global) FM3971 test. As approvals and coatings have technically advanced, CharCoat CC now “Fire Rates” cable (under IEC 60331-11), not only stopping flame propagation, but protecting the cable from further damage while continuing to function for a certain period of time. CharCoat CC is a sacrificial coating. Under fire it will sacrifice itself to save the cable.
Why should CharCoat CC be installed on fire retardant or fire rated cables?
Some cables within facilities are also flame retardant or Fire Rated Cables. Technologically advanced cables are typically very expensive. Although these cables are fire rated and will continue to function in a fire for its designated and tested time, they will have to be replaced after the fire due to damage, whether it be the sheath, insulation or core. Fire will damage the cable a destruction point, necessitating expensive cable replacement.
In coating these types of cables with CharCoat CC, the facility is:
– Protecting an expense asset from fire and flame spread,
– Stopping the flame spread and fire rating the cable, the CharCoat CC will sacrifice itself and add protection to the cable, so cable replacement is not required and the cable continues to function after a fire,
– Lowering the downtime of expensive cable replacement.
Can CharCoat CC be applied on exterior cable?
Yes, CharCoat CC is tested for salt water immersion, CharCoat CC is also carries complete 100% UV Certification for external works.
Does the cable have to be derated?
No, cables (single, bundled or in tray) do not need to be derated once CharCoat CC is applied. Once applied, it extends the surface area giving the cable a greater area of heat dissipation.
Can CharCoat CC repair electrical Cables?
You do not need specialty equipment to repair cable. As we discussed earlier, you can easily repair cables with 3M product and then coat with CharCoat CC to seal and protect from flame, fire and weather. We can get their system locally for you, or you can get it in China.
The steps you would take are:
Scotch® Professional Grade Linerless Rubber Splicing Tape, 130C, black, 30 mil (0.76 mm), 1-1/2 in x 30 ft (38 mm x 9.1 m) – 3M ID 7000006086
Scotch® Cable Jacket Repair Tape, 2234, black, 60 mil (1.5mm), 2 in x 6 ft (50 mm x 1.8 m) – 3M ID 7000006227
CharCoat CC Cable Coat to seal repaired area. You would require a dry film thickness of 1.6mm on the cable (3.0mm wet).
