IEEE 1202 flame testing of cables for use in cable tray

The new IEEE 1202, IEEE Standard for Flame Testing of Cables for Use in Cable Tray in Industrial and Commercial Occupancies, is described. This flame test standard will: (1) contribute to harmonization of Canadian and US standards, most likely becoming a North American standard and eventually replacing the current UL and CSA tray cable flame tests; (2) provide more flame retardant cables for use in cable trays; and (3) address the valid criticism that not all constructions in a product line will pass the existing flame tests since only a 7/C or a 9/C 12 AWG (3.31-mm/sup 2/) construction is tested (under this new standard, there is a very high probability that all constructions will pass the flame test). Adoption of this standard may eliminate some present cable constructions from use in cable trays or at least require some redesign to comply with the flame test.<>