Draka Firetufplus cable chosen for synchrotron 
(10/01/2007)
Draka’s Firetufplus enhanced circuit-integrity cable has been chosen for one of Europe’s most impressive high-technology research centres, the new £60 million Diamond Light Source scientific facility currently being built in South Oxfordshire on the Harwell Chilton science campus. A giant machine, called a synchrotron and described as “super microscopes”, is housed in the futuristic doughnut shaped building that covers an area equivalent to five football pitches.
The Diamond Synchrotron is the largest UK-funded scientific facility to be built for over 30 years. When fully commissioned it will produce pinpoint ultra-violet and X-ray beams of exceptional brightness. These highly focused light beams will enable scientists and engineers to probe deep into the basic structure of matter and materials, answering fundamental questions about everything from the building blocks of life to the origin of our planet.
The aluminium-clad, steel framed building is a joint venture between Welcome Trust and the Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Councils. It is being constructed by the Costain Group. Construction started in 2003 and the facility is due to be operational in 2007. Haden Young is the principal electrical contractor on site.
Firetufplus was chosen for the fire alarm installation by Lincolnshire-based K J Bird, the installation company working for Chubb UK, for the 45,500 square metre building, because of its proven performance and particularly because of its superior pliability and robustness. Over 30 miles of the fire rated cable have been installed, which offers 60 minutes fire and mechanical protection, followed by 60 minutes of fire, mechanical impact and water protection. In common with all Draka UK’s Firetuf cables, its performance is verified by BASEC and LPCB independent testing and approval.
Firetufplus is a zero halogen, low smoke (OHLS) cable that meets the Enhanced category of BS 5839–1 : 2002. It is available in long lengths and has a twisted core construction to improve signal clarity. Other benefits include lower termination costs, legendary ease of handling and installation, and the lack of any need for special tools or training. Firetufplus is suitable for use in Zone 1 and Zone 2 hazardous areas.
Commenting on the background to the decision to use Firetufplus, David Oldfield, Draka’s Product Development Manager, said “K J Bird, the installation contractor, was aware that the cable originally considered for the Diamond Synchrotron project had inherent problems regarding bending, and successfully lobbied for Firetufplus.”
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