Data centres are integral to the UK’s economy, providing the core infrastructure that underpins digital activity across government, business and communities.
In recognition of their strategic importance, the government officially designated data centres as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) in 2024 placing them on a par with essential services like water and energy. This reclassification brings with it a host of heightened operational, regulatory and security expectations. Data centre operators must be able to demonstrate robust fire safety, and operational resilience against physical and cyber threats, as well as a commitment to reducing facilities’ environmental impact.
Twisted Conductor Mineral Insulated Copper-Clad (MICC) cables offer a future-proof solution that directly supports these goals.
Fire Safety and Operational Continuity Under Extreme Conditions
The threat of fire is one of the most significant risks to data centres. Twisted Conductor MICC cables (also known as pyro twist cables) are specifically engineered to perform under the most extreme conditions, preserving the integrity of critical circuits even in intense fire scenarios.
Twisted MICC cables are constructed from just two completely inorganic and non-combustible materials - copper and magnesium oxide. Capable of withstanding temperatures up to 2,852°C, they offer exceptional resilience where conventional plastic insulated (“soft skin”) cables may fail.
By ensuring the uninterrupted operation of essential systems like fire alarms, emergency lighting, communication networks, and fire suppression mechanisms, Twisted Conductor MICC cables play a key role in disaster recovery planning. Their reliability helps data centres maintain operations during emergencies, reducing the risk of prolonged service disruptions.
Crucially, unlike plastic-insulated fire safety cables, MICC cables do not emit toxic smoke or gases when exposed to fire. This enhances the safety of evacuation efforts and can even be lifesaving in high-risk situations.
Superior Data Integrity Through Reduced Interference
Data centres are tasked with transmitting massive volumes of sensitive and time-critical information. Any distortion, loss, or corruption of data can compromise facilities’ service quality and business continuity.
Twisted Conductor MICC cables are designed to minimise electromagnetic interference (EMI), reducing ‘crosstalk’ (interference) between signal lines. The twisting of the cables’ copper conductors plays a vital role in shielding data transmission from electrical noise and maintaining signal clarity. This enhanced stability is particularly valuable in data centres which, by their nature, are high-density, high-speed data environments where performance is required around the clock.
Building Infrastructure Resilience for the Long-Term
With their CNI status, data centres are now expected to proactively manage risk and implement rigorous continuity plans. Twisted Conductor MICC cables directly support these requirements by offering a level of durability and resilience that far exceeds conventional plastic-insulated alternatives.
These cables are waterproof, rodent-proof, and highly resistant to mechanical damage, making them ideal for critical installations where long-term reliability is a priority. Their inorganic construction also means they are non-aging and do not degrade over time, reducing maintenance needs and the likelihood of unexpected failures.
A Responsible Step Toward Sustainability
As the UK accelerates towards its net zero ambitions and environmental scrutiny intensifies, the pressure on data centre operators to reduce carbon emissions and material waste is growing. MICC cables support sustainability targets by offering exceptional longevity and full recyclability. Made solely from the recyclable materials copper and magnesium oxide, they contain no plastic or hazardous materials which makes them safer during operation and more environmentally responsible at end-of-life. Furthermore, the reduced need for cable replacement over time contributes to lower resource consumption.
A Future-proof Solution for More Resilient Data Centres
Twisted Conductor MICC cables are a fire survival solution that also represent a strategic investment in the long-term performance, safety and sustainability of data centres. As the regulatory expectations for data centres become ever more stringent, these cables offer an affordable solution to future-proofing data centres’ vital operations.
- You can explore more about Wrexham Mineral Cables Twisted Conductor MICC cables here.