Halogen-free compounds that meet the toughest CPR fire test standards
- Alphagary, an Orbia business
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
Alphagary’s halogen-free, flame-retardant compound series MEGOLON® continues to solidify its position with the evolving European Construction Product Regulation (CPR) fire and toxicity testing protocols.
Halogen-free compounds - often referred to as HFFR (halogen-free, flame retardant) or LSHF (low smoke, halogen-free) compounds – offer flame retardance with low toxicity, making them an ideal jacketing material for a variety of cable types. Over the last five years, the development of next-generation MEGOLON halogen-free compounds has concentrated on the evolving requirements of CPR testing, encompassing flame test standards from E to the B2ca classification.
The European Union introduced CPR fire testing in 2017, effectively establishing rigorous testing methodologies for construction products, including cables. A key component of this regulation is test method EN 50399, which has become a standard for testing cables under fire conditions. The MEGOLON compound series, including jacketing and sheathing materials, has consistently passed the B2, C, and D Euro classes in the CPR hierarchy across various cable types such as fiber optic and copper cables for data, control, and power applications.
Originally developed for energy and power cables, MEGOLON compounds, known for their low toxicity and corrosivity, have been successfully adapted for a broader range of applications. These include data and telecom cables, circuit integrity cables, and fire survival cables, reflecting the growing need for more versatile solutions in fire-resistant cable materials.
Halogen-free compounds offer several key properties that make them ideal for ensuring safety and performance in a variety of cable applications:
1. Flame Retardancy: MEGOLON halogen-free compounds are designed to resist ignition and slow the spread of flames. This is crucial in datacom cables, which are often installed in environments where fire safety is a high priority.
2. Low Smoke Emission: MEGOLON compounds produce minimal smoke when exposed to heat or flame. Low smoke improves visibility and reduces respiratory hazards in the event of a fire.
3. Low Toxicity: MEGOLON halogen-free compounds do not release toxic gases like hydrogen chloride (HCl) during combustion.
4. Improved Durability and Flexibility: MEGOLON halogen-free compounds offer excellent mechanical properties and good flexibility, ensuring reliable performance of the finished cable.
5. Fast Processing Speeds with No Die Drool: MEGOLON halogen-free compounds are optimized to run at high line speeds without die drool while still maintaining performance integrity.
6. Compliance with International Standards: MEGOLON halogen-free compounds are designed to meet strict fire safety standards like the European CPR (Construction Products Regulation), UL (Underwriters Laboratories), and other global certifications, making them suitable for various international markets.
Our portfolio of materials for cables
As global demand increases for materials that meet international standards, Alphagary continues to innovate next-generation materials for a variety of cable types that meet global fire testing standards:
MEGOLON® halogen-free compounds
SMOKEGUARD® specialty vinyl for plenum applications
GW series - PVC compounds
GARAFLEX® - TPE compounds
GARATHANE® - TPU compounds
GCPE series - CPE compounds
With an unwavering commitment to safety and performance, we deliver top-quality products our customers rely on—ensuring effective protection for people, property, and infrastructure. Partnering with Alphagary provides access to next-generation technology—backed by unmatched expertise, proven reliability, and a commitment to excellence.
Looking for lower carbon footprint options?
Read more about MEGOLON ECO – halogen-free compounds formulated with recycled and/or bio-based polymer.
