How FR PVC Compounds Power Modern Data Center Success

Artificial intelligence, cloud computing and high-density digital infrastructure are pushing data centers to their limits. As these facilities take on higher processing loads, the cable materials that form their connectivity backbone face increasingly demanding requirements — from suitability in fire-safe cable designs to rapid manufacturing processability.

Let's take a closer look at one flame retardant (FR) PVC compound series — the GW series — that successfully addresses the multifaceted challenges of data center electrical systems.

Why Your Choice of Cable Material Matters

Data centers require cable materials that deliver excellent thermal management, reliable operation and rapid manufacturing processability. The right compounds provide physical protection against abrasions and cuts, chemical resistance to oils and moisture, and most critically, fire resistance to prevent fire propagation along densely packed cable pathways.

Flame Retardant PVC Compounds on Data Center Cables

One example of a cable compound that checks these boxes is the GW Series. Here’s why:

Exceptional thermal performance. With an upper operating temperature range of 60 to 105°C, GW compounds maintain stable signal transmission even in hot conditions. This thermal stability prevents signal degradation and compromised data integrity, which are critical factors when processing loads generate significant heat.

Advanced fire safety. Compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) NFPA 70 requirements, including UL 1666 riser standards, ensures cable compounds minimize fire propagation risk. With a Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) value of 25 to 50%, the GW Series provides excellent flame-retardant properties — even in densely packed cable installations.

Environmental resilience. GW compounds have undergone rigorous testing, ensuring their resistance to water, gasoline and oil exposure (Oil resistance grades I and II are available). 

Application versatility. The GW Series supports diverse cable types, including communications, control, signal and coaxial cables, designed for both copper and fiber optic systems to provide manufacturers flexibility across their product lines.

Beyond meeting technical specifications, GW Series compounds deliver several real operational advantages. These include:

Greater installation efficiency. Available in both semi-rigid and flexible options, GW compounds allow for easier cable management, reducing installation time and maintenance complexity in space-constrained data centers.

Long lifespan. The environmental resistance and thermal stability of GW compounds help to extend cable life, promoting efficiency in facilities with massive cable infrastructures.

Manufacturing speed. The material’s rapid processability supports the high production volumes necessary for modern data center and 5G applications.

Global compliance. REACH, RoHS and Prop 65 compliant grades ensure GW compounds meet strict environmental standards, supporting global data center operations.

Explore Other Alphagary Products

GW Series flame-retardant PVC compounds provide the high performance, safety and reliability that today’s digital infrastructure requires. In addition to these compounds, you can choose from our complementary product families, including MEGOLON flame retardant halogen-free (HFFR / LSHF) compounds and SMOKEGUARD specialty vinyl compounds for plenum spaces.

To learn more about the GW Series, visit our product page and contact us for more information.