There’s a lot of confusion surrounding LSZH cable: what it is, how it works, whether it’s the same as LSF, and when it should or shouldn’t be used. There’s also the matter of how LSZH cables compare to more traditional options like PVC, and whether the extra cost is justified.
Read on for the answers to each of these questions and more.
What is LSZH cable? (LSZH cable meaning)
LSZH stands for Low Smoke Zero Halogen. LSZH cable is made using thermoplastic compounds that emit very low smoke and no halogenated gases when exposed to high heat or flames. Traditional cables often use PVC cable jackets, which release thick black smoke and corrosive gases when burned, posing a hazard to human health and sensitive electronics. By contrast, LSZH cables are engineered to maintain signal integrity whilst significantly reducing toxic emissions in fire conditions.
Why use LSZH cable?
Its properties make LSZH cable an ideal choice for environments with poor ventilation or where large numbers of people or valuable equipment could be at risk. LSZH cables comply with specific safety standards, including IEC 61034 (smoke density) and IEC 60754 (halogen gas content). Whether used for data, power, or control applications, LSZH cables meet performance expectations whilst also delivering enhanced fire safety.
As such, LSZH cable is often specified in public infrastructure projects, mass transit systems, and high-occupancy buildings due to its safety benefits. Their qualities also make them suitable for hospitals, tunnels, aircraft, and naval applications – anywhere that emergency response time is critical and air quality must be preserved. LSZH cable also limits corrosion on nearby metal surfaces during combustion, helping to protect key infrastructure even under catastrophic conditions.
Whilst they may have a higher upfront cost than standard cables, the long-term value in safety and compliance is often well worth the investment. LSZH cables are therefore considered best practice for projects governed by modern building regulations and fire safety codes.
When not to use LSZH cable
Despite their benefits, LSZH cables aren’t always the most suitable choice. LSZH jackets are typically more rigid and less flexible than PVC alternatives, which can pose issues in dynamic or tight-bend installations. They’re also more susceptible to mechanical damage during installation if not handled carefully.
LSZH materials also have lower moisture resistance and UV stability compared to some other compounds, making them less ideal for outdoor use unless specifically treated or armoured. In very high-temperature environments, certain LSZH formulations may not perform as reliably as high-performance fluoropolymer or silicone alternatives.
In addition, whilst LSZH cables are generally safer in fire situations, they don’t self-extinguish as quickly as halogenated materials, and not all LSZH cables are rated for high-voltage or heavy-duty use. Before specifying LSZH, consider the full environmental and mechanical demands of your application to ensure it’s the right fit.
Difference between LSF and LSZH cables
One of the most common areas of confusion lies in the difference between LSF and LSZH cables. LSF stands for Low Smoke and Fume, and whilst these cables are designed to reduce smoke emissions compared to standard PVC, they are not halogen-free. LSF cables still contain PVC or modified PVC, meaning they will emit some toxic gases in a fire. LSZH cables, on the other hand, are entirely free of halogen elements and meet stricter emission and toxicity standards.
This distinction is critical in applications governed by fire safety legislation, particularly in enclosed or high-density spaces. Some buyers assume LSF and LSZH cables offer the same protection, but they do not – LSZH is the higher standard. If human safety, equipment protection, or regulatory compliance is a concern, always specify LSZH rather than LSF. Understanding the technical and regulatory difference between LSF and LSZH cables can prevent costly mistakes and ensure correct product selection.
Contact CDC for LSZH cable
Selecting an experienced LSZH cable manufacturer ensures your solution meets performance, safety, and compliance requirements. Not all LSZH cables are created equal: compound quality, construction standards, and certification matter.
At Custom Designed Cables, we work with clients across aerospace, rail, data, and marine sectors (and more) to design and manufacture LSZH cables to exacting specifications. Our team advises on cable geometry, cable shielding, conductor materials, and jacketing formulations to ensure cables perform reliably in fire-sensitive environments. All of our LSZH cables are tested to international safety standards and manufactured using high-quality halogen-free compounds. Whether you need single-core or multi-core designs, armoured options, or hybrid signal/power combinations, we can deliver tailored LSZH solutions quickly and to the highest standard.
As trusted LSZH cable manufacturers, we provide full technical support, short lead times, and proven expertise in complex project delivery. From first consultation through to final delivery, we work closely with you to develop safe, efficient, and standards-compliant cable solutions tailored to your project.
Contact us today to discuss your LSZH cable requirements.
