Monday, March 31, 2014

Elevator Traveling Cable CAT6



Modern elevators are no longer just about moving people up and down. Today’s smart lifts require continuous high-speed data transmission for IP cameras, remote monitoring, IoT sensors, elevator advertising screens, and emergency communication systems. The Elevator Traveling Cable Cat6 – 4 x CAT6e S/FTP is specifically designed to meet these demands inside the harsh environment of an elevator shaft.

If you are specifying network cabling for a lift system, this guide covers everything you need to know.


What Is Elevator Traveling Cable Cat6 – 4 x CAT6e S/FTP?

Elevator Traveling Cable CAT6


The Elevator Cable Cat6 is a flat flexible LAN cable designed for continuous flexing applications in elevator traveling cables. It contains four independent CAT6e (or CAT6 enhanced) data pairs, each shielded for maximum signal integrity.

The full specification can be described as:

  • 4 x CAT6e – Four separate CAT6e channels (each with 4 pairs)

  • S/FTP – Shielded / Foiled Twisted Pair (overall braid + foil on each pair)

  • 4x4x2xAWG26 – Four units, each containing 4 pairs of 26 AWG stranded copper

This construction allows Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T) or even multichannel video transmission over a single flat elevator traveling cable.


Why Use a CAT6e LAN Cable in an Elevator?

Standard round network cables are not designed for the constant bending, twisting, and tight spaces of an elevator shaft. The Elevator Traveling Cable Cat6 solves these problems:

FeatureBenefit
Flat flexible designPrevents twisting and kinking during elevator movement
S/FTP shieldingExcellent EMI/RFI rejection – critical near motor drives and power lines
CAT6e performanceSupports up to 10 Gbps (depending on length) and frequencies up to 500 MHz
4 independent channelsRun multiple services (camera, Wi-Fi, display, intercom) over one cable
Stranded AWG26High flexibility with millions of bending cycles

Technical Specifications (Quick Reference)

ParameterValue
Cable typeFlat elevator traveling LAN cable
Data ratingCAT6e (enhanced CAT6)
Shielding typeS/FTP (overall braid + foil per pair)
Number of units4
Pairs per unit4 (8 conductors per unit)
Total conductors4 × 8 = 32 conductors
Conductor gaugeAWG26 stranded bare copper
Flexibility classContinuous flex (tested for elevator traveling)
Temperature range-15°C to +70°C (dynamic)
Outer sheathPVC or low-smoke zero halogen (LSZH) options
Flame retardantYes (EN 60332-1-2)

⚠️ Always check MKS Kablo's data for exact bending radius, tensile load, and cycle life.


Applications in Elevator Systems

The Elevator Cable Cat6 is ideal for:

  • IP security cameras inside the elevator car (real-time HD or 4K video)

  • Elevator emergency telephones with VoIP

  • Remote monitoring and predictive maintenance (IoT sensors for vibration, temperature, door cycles)

  • Multimedia displays – Advertisements, floor information, news feeds

  • Wi-Fi access points inside the car

  • Building automation integration – Elevator status to BMS

Because it has four independent CAT6e channels, you can run separate networks (e.g., one for camera, one for maintenance, one for passenger Wi-Fi) without additional cables.


Installation Best Practices

To ensure maximum performance and longevity of your Elevator Traveling Cable Cat6:

  1. Use compatible flat cable hangers – Ensure the hanger slot width is at least 98 mm to accommodate the cable’s flat width.

  2. Do not over-bend – Minimum bending radius typically 8× cable thickness for continuous flex.

  3. Use shielded RJ45 connectors or field-termination plugs – Maintain the S/FTP shield integrity to ground at both ends (only one side grounded to avoid ground loops).

  4. Secure both ends – One anchor on the car side, one on the shaft side.

  5. Leave a service loop – Allow extra length for future re-termination.

  6. Avoid running parallel to high-voltage power cables – Even with shielding, maintain separation if possible.


Comparison: Standard CAT6 vs. Elevator Traveling CAT6

FeatureStandard CAT6 (round)Elevator Traveling CAT6 (flat, flexible)
Flex life<10,000 cycles>1 million cycles
Twist resistancePoor (twists under tension)Excellent (flat profile resists twisting)
Shaft space usageThick round cableLow-profile flat
ShieldingOften UTP or F/UTPS/FTP (superior shielding)

Final Verdict

The Elevator Traveling Cable Cat6 – 4 x CAT6e S/FTP (4x4x2xAWG26) is the ideal choice for modern smart elevators that demand reliable, high-speed data transmission. Its flat flexible design, quadruple CAT6e channels, and robust shielding make it future-proof for IoT, video surveillance, and passenger connectivity.

When planning a new lift installation or modernization, choose a dedicated elevator traveling LAN cable – standard network cables will fail prematurely in the shaft. This cable ensures safety, uptime, and Gigabit performance for years to come.


Need specific bend radius or connector recommendations? Consult MKS KABLO or refer to TIA/EIA standards for shielded twisted pair in moving applications.

Friday, January 31, 2014

Traveling Cable For Elevetor


Traveling Cable For Elevator: Everything You Need to Know About Flat Elevator Cables

In elevator systems, the traveling cable that provides energy and signal transmission between the car and the control panel is one of the most critical components in continuous motion. Especially in high-rise buildings and narrow hoistway spaces, flat elevator cables are preferred over traditional round cables. So, what makes these cables so special? In this article, we will examine the structure, types, technical specifications, and selection criteria of flat elevator cables in detail.

What Is a Flat Elevator Cable?

A flat elevator cable is a type of traveling cable produced by covering multi-strand copper conductors with a special PVC or halogen-free insulation material and then combining them with a flat outer sheath. Its biggest difference from round cables is that its cross-section is elliptical or rectangular. This geometric structure gives the cable a much more efficient movement capability in the elevator hoistway.

While round cables create uneven stress on the cores as they bend in the hoistway, in flat cables the bending stress is distributed more homogeneously among the cores; this allows the cable to withstand millions of bending cycles. Additionally, the flat structure takes up less space in narrow hoistways and almost eliminates the risk of the cable twisting around itself.

Why Are Flat Cables Preferred?

We can list the prominent advantages of flat elevator cables as follows:

  • Superior performance in narrow spaces: The flat cross-section takes up less space in the hoistway and increases the free suspension length of the cable.

  • Low bending radius: Compared to round cables, it can bend at a much smaller radius; this minimizes the cable's friction against the hoistway walls.

  • Lightweight: Especially in models with CCA (copper-clad aluminum) conductors, weight is reduced by up to 30-40%; this reduces the static load on the elevator motor and suspension system.

  • Long lifespan: Thanks to fine multi-strand copper conductors (Class 5/6) and a special PVC compound, the cable is resistant to millions of bending cycles.

Common Flat Elevator Cable Types

Elevator traveling cables are produced in different types depending on the application and environmental conditions. The most common standards and types are as follows:

H05VVH6-F

This is a flat elevator cable with PVC insulation and PVC sheath, with a rated voltage of 300/500 V. It is manufactured in accordance with the EN 50214 standard; it is used as a control and command cable in moving systems such as elevators, cranes, escalators, and conveyor systems. Its maximum operating temperature is +70 °C.

H05VVD3H6-F

This is a flat elevator cable developed for long travel distances and high buildings, reinforced with two steel wire ropes. Thanks to the steel support members, the cable's elongation under its own weight is prevented; it provides safe operation up to a free suspension length of 150 meters and a travel speed of 10 m/s.

TVVB and Its Variants

The TVVB series consists of flat elevator cables with PVC insulation and PVC sheath. They can be produced in cross-sections of 0.75 mm² and 1 mm², with 18 to 60 cores. The sub-types of this family are as follows:

TypeFeature
TVVBStandard flat cable
TVVBPContains shielded pairs
TVVBGSteel wire rope reinforced
TVVBPGBoth shielded and steel wire rope reinforced

All of these types are used at a rated voltage of 300/500 V and an operating temperature of up to 70 °C.

Technical Specifications and Standards

Flat elevator cables are manufactured in strict compliance with international standards. The most common reference standard is EN 50214. This standard covers the construction, requirements, and particular test methods for flat, flexible PVC or halogen-free insulated and sheathed cables with a rated voltage of Uo/U 300/500 V and, for cross-sections above 1 mm², Uo/U 450/750 V, intended for use in passenger and goods lifts (elevators) .

The technical data of a typical flat elevator cable is as follows:

  • Conductor: Fine multi-strand electrolytic annealed copper (IEC 60228 / VDE 0295 Class 5)

  • Insulation: PVC (TI2) or halogen-free thermoplastic compound

  • Sheath: PVC (TM2) or halogen-free thermoplastic compound

  • Rated Voltage: 300/500 V (in some models 450/750 V)

  • Test Voltage: 2 kV

  • Maximum Operating Temperature: +70 °C

  • Maximum Short-Circuit Temperature: +160 °C (max. 5 sec)

  • Flame Test: IEC 60332-1-2

For example, MKS Kablo's 05ZZD3H6-F 24G1 model is 73.7 mm wide and 4.1 mm thick; its maximum free suspension length is 210 meters, maximum travel height is approximately 370 meters, and maximum travel speed is 10 m/s . Its dynamic minimum bending radius is 150 mm, and its static minimum bending radius is 42 mm .

Steel Wire Rope Support: Why Is It Essential for High-Rise Buildings?

In high-rise buildings, the weight of the elevator traveling cable itself can cause the cable to break or sag significantly. To solve this problem, steel wire rope reinforced flat cables have been developed. In the construction of these cables, in addition to the copper conductors, there are two steel wire ropes (for example, with a 7×7×0.20 mm construction and Ø1.8 mm diameter) . The steel wire ropes carry the weight of the cable and eliminate the mechanical stress on the copper conductors. Thus, the cable can operate safely at free suspension lengths of up to 150 meters and travel speeds of up to 10 m/s.

Shielding and Data Transmission

Modern elevator systems require not only energy but also high-speed data (CCTV, network connection, sensor signals) transmission. To meet this need, shielded flat elevator cables are produced. Types such as TVVBP and TVVBPG provide protection against electromagnetic interference thanks to the shielding of data pairs with Al/PET foil . In more advanced solutions, CAT6 network cables and even fiber optic elements can be integrated into the flat cable structure.

Things to Consider When Selecting a Flat Elevator Cable

Choosing the right cable is of vital importance for the reliability and long life of the elevator. When making a selection, you should consider the following criteria:

  1. Building height and free suspension length: In hoistways over 35 meters, cable types with steel wire rope support (ST or G) should definitely be preferred.

  2. Travel speed: In high-speed elevators (4 m/s and above), cables with high dynamic bending radius and mechanical strength should be selected.

  3. Number of cores and cross-section: The number of cores and conductor cross-section required for control, lighting, communication, and safety circuits must be calculated correctly.

  4. Environmental conditions: In humid, oily, or corrosive environments, the chemical resistance of the sheath material should be questioned.

  5. Fire safety: Especially in enclosed and high-rise buildings, halogen-free (LSZH) or flame-retardant (FR) sheath options should be evaluated.

  6. Certificates: The cable's compliance with the EN 50214 standard and relevant test reports must be checked.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

The performance of a flat elevator cable is directly related to correct installation and regular maintenance. During installation, the cable should be released to form a natural loop, not be over-tensioned, and be kept away from sharp edges. Cable clamps should not be too tight, as this prevents crushing of the cores. During periodic maintenance, the sheath surface should be checked for cracks, abrasion, or discoloration; in steel wire rope models, the tension and breakage status of the ropes should be reviewed.

For unsupported flat cable installations, the cable is attached with hanging devices at the hoistway midpoint and at the bottom of the car. The maximum hanging length for unsupported cable is 46 m (150 ft) according to EN standards . For supported flat cable, the steel support members are attached with hanging devices at the hoistway top and at the bottom of the car .

Conclusion

Flat elevator cables are the invisible heroes of modern elevator systems. With their superior movement capability in narrow hoistway spaces, long-lasting construction, and steel wire rope reinforced options suitable for high-rise buildings, they increase both safety and efficiency. Choosing the right type and technical specification of cable directly affects the performance and passenger comfort of your elevator. By clearly determining the needs of your project and choosing products that comply with international standards such as EN 50214, you will ensure trouble-free operation for many years.

Monday, January 6, 2014

Halogen Free Elevator Cables



When it comes to elevator safety, cable fire performance is just as important as mechanical durability. In the event of a fire, standard PVC cables can release dense black smoke and toxic halogen gases (like hydrogen chloride), which obstruct evacuation and harm passengers.

The 05Z1Z1H6-F Halogen Free Elevator Cable is specifically designed to solve this problem. This post explains what these cables are, why they matter.


What Are HFFR and FRNC?

Both terms refer to cables with superior fire safety properties:

TermFull FormMeaning
HFFRHalogen Free Flame RetardantNo halogens (chlorine, fluorine, bromine, iodine) in the material; flame propagation is limited
FRNCFlame Retardant Non CorrosiveSimilar to HFFR – during a fire, gases emitted are non-corrosive and low in toxicity

These cables use special polyolefin compounds instead of PVC. When exposed to fire, they produce:

  • Very low smoke – Improves visibility for evacuation

  • No halogen acids – Protects equipment from corrosion

  • Low toxicity – Reduces health risks for passengers and firefighters


Why Use Halogen Free Low Smoke Cables in Elevators?

Elevator shafts are vertical chimneys. In a fire, smoke and toxic gases rise rapidly, filling the shaft and spreading to other floors. Standard PVC cables can make this deadly.

FeatureBenefit
Low smoke emissionEvacuation routes remain visible
Halogen freeNo corrosive gases – protects elevator electronics and building infrastructure
FRNC ratingMeets strict fire safety standards (EN 50267, EN 61034, IEC 60754)
Self-extinguishingPrevents fire spreading along the cable

These cables are mandatory or highly recommended in:

  • Hospitals, schools, airports, train stations

  • High-rise residential and commercial buildings

  • Underground installations and tunnels

  • Any building with strict fire codes (e.g., EU CPR, BS 7629-1)


Identifying HFFR/FRNC Elevator Cables

Below are the typical visual characteristics of a Halogen Free Low Smoke HFFR / FRNC Elevator Cable.

Halogen Free Elevator Cables
Halogen Free Elevator Cable

05Z1Z1D3H6-F Halogen Free Lift Cables
Halogen Free Elevator Cable with 2x Steel Wire Support




1. Overall Cable Appearance

  • Color: Usually white, gray, or orange (not the dark gray/black of PVC cables)

  • Flat profile (for traveling cables) or round (for static sections)

  • Smooth, matte finish – unlike glossy PVC 

2. Cable Marking

Look for printing on the sheath:

  • HFFR

  • FRNC

  • LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen – similar standard)

  • IEC 60754-1/2 (corrosivity test)

  • EN 61034 (smoke density test)

3. Cross-Section (Internal Construction)

If you cut the cable:

  • No halogen smell when burned with a lighter (test carefully)

  • Sheath and insulation are stiffer than PVC but remain flexible

  • Often white or natural color insulation on wires

4. Burning Behavior 

When exposed to a flame and removed:

  • Self-extinguishes within a few seconds

  • Very little smoke – clear or light gray smoke, not thick black

  • No dripping of burning material


Technical Specifications (Typical)

ParameterValue
Cable typeFlat elevator traveling cable (or static)
Halogen statusHalogen free (Cl, F, Br, I < 0.1% by weight)
Smoke density (EN 61034)Light transmittance ≥ 60% (typical)
Corrosivity (IEC 60754-2)pH ≥ 4.3; conductivity ≤ 10 µS/mm
Flame retardancyEN 60332-1-2 (vertical flame test)
Temperature range-15°C to +70°C (dynamic)
ApplicationsControl, power, data, coaxial, CAT6 in elevator shafts

Common Types Available in HFFR/FRNC

Many elevator cable types can be manufactured with halogen free low smoke compounds:

  • H05V3V3H6-F (halogen free version) – Flat flexible control cable

  • H05V3V3H6-F + TV HF 75 – With coaxial for video

  • Elevator CAT6 / LAN cable (LSZH version) – For data networks

  • Composite traveling cables – Power + control + data + fiber optic


Installation Tips for Halogen Free Cables

HFFR/FRNC cables are slightly less flexible than PVC cables at low temperatures. Follow these tips:

  1. Use proper flat cable hangers – Ensure smooth edges to avoid abrasion on the soft sheath.

  2. Minimum bending radius – Typically 8× cable thickness (more than PVC).

  3. Avoid sharp cable ties – Use rounded, non-snagging supports.

  4. Do not pull over sharp edges – HFFR sheaths can be more susceptible to cutting damage.

  5. Label clearly – Mark that the cable is halogen free for future maintenance.

Final Verdict

The Halogen Free Elevator Cable is the safest choice for modern buildings where human life and equipment protection are priorities. While slightly more expensive than PVC, the fire safety benefits are undeniable – reduced smoke, no toxic halogens, and non-corrosive fumes.

Need a specific halogen free cable for your elevator project? Contact a MKS KABLO NOW!