Fire alarm protective circuits

[Don Rhodes]

To All;

Can anyone tell me where to find the NFPA requirement for fire cable
to devices. A question came up as to whether a keypad / annunciator
required fire wire. We know that it does but can't find the code
paragraph to verify. Does it require 18 guage and a two hour rating?

Thanks

Don

 

[peter d]

In my state, it would be required to be in MC cable or metal raceway.

This would entirely depend on your local codes and any amendments to NFPA 1 or 72 or whatever they adopt. The best thing to do is contact the authority that regulates fire alarm systems in your area.

 

[kkwong]

Like peterd said, check 72, but you might want to look at 70 too.

The AHJ is a good answer as well as the manufacturer's installation instructions.

 

[rdbutler]

I can see the argument than a remote annunciator/keypad could be considered ancilliary equipment and not required for a functioning alarm system. However, in my jurisdiction anything that is connected to the fire alarm system must comply with the same requirements of the rest of the system. If the end user expects the annunciator to work, then it shouldn't be considered ancilliary.

The wire gauge is probably specified by the equipment manufacturer, but can be determined by the voltage drop of the wire and the required operating voltage of the device.

Wiring should be FPL (2-hour circuit integrity rated cable.) Or FPLR if it is in a riser/FPLP if it is in a plenum space. See NFPA 70 Article 760.61 (2005 edition).

From personal experience, 18AWG FPLP will work every time for keypad/annunciators.

I hope this helps.