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MICC Cables for Facility Management
Why Facility Managers choose MICC Cables Booklet valid from June 2025MICC Cables for Nuclear Power Stations
Fire-Survival Cables for Nuclear Power Stations Booklet valid from June 2025MICC Cable for Railways and Tunnels
Fire-Survival Cables for Railways and Tunnels Booklet valid from June 2025MICC Cables for the ATEX Industry
Why the ATEX Industry needs MICC Cable Systems Booklet valid from June 20251. What is MICC (Mineral Insulated Copper Clad) cable?
MICC (Mineral Insulated Copper Clad) cable, also known as pyro cable, is a highly durable and fire-resistant electrical cable designed for use in critical circuits.2. Are pyro and MICC the same thing?
Yes, pyro cable is simply another name for MICC cable.3. What is MICC cable (also known as pyro cable) used for?
MICC cable is used in a building's critical infrastructure, including fire alarms, emergency lighting, extraction systems, and emergency generators. Its primary purpose is to ensure the operation of these essential services, helping people evacuate safely in the event of a fire.Our Twisted Conductor Cable range offers reduced electromagnetic interference and signal corruption and are widely used in data centres as well as other applications such as fire alarm telephone systems, CCTV and public address systems.
4. Who makes MICC cable?
The Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC) facility based in Wrexham, North Wales, is the only MICC manufacturing facility in the UK. Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC) have been manufacturing MICC cables since 1990.5. Do you still make MICC cable?
Yes, MICC cable is still manufactured by Wrexham Mineral Cables and continues to be a trusted choice for critical safety applications.6. What are the advantages of MICC cable (also known as pyro cable)?
MICC cable offers several significant benefits: ·- Exceptional fire survival properties: MICC is made from just two, non-combustible materials; copper and magnesium oxide. Both these materials can withstand extreme heat (see Question 7 below for more detail).
- Durability and longevity: With a lifespan of over 50 years, MICC cable reduces the need for replacements, lowering long-term costs and waste.
- Waterproof and rodent-proof: The copper sheath makes MICC cable waterproof and resistant to rodents.
- Non-toxic: MICC is made from just two materials, copper and magnesium oxide, neither of which release harmful gases or pollutants during a fire.
- Environmental credentials: MICC is made entirely from recyclable, non-toxic materials (copper and magnesium oxide), which makes it a more eco-friendly option than cables with plastic insulation.
7. MICC cable vs. alternative fire performance cables
MICC cables are the ONLY TRUE FIRE SURVIVAL CABLE, there are many other fire-resistant cables available on the market – these are sometimes referred to as "soft skin cables". The difference lies n their performance capabilities:- MICC cable: Uses a copper sheath and magnesium oxide insulation, which are non-combustible and can withstand extreme heat. Copper melts at 1,085°C, and magnesium oxide at 2,852°C. MICC cables release no toxic fumes during a fire and are made from recyclable materials.
- Soft skin / fire resistant cables: Are often made with plastic or polymer insulation, these cables can degrade under extreme heat, releasing toxic fumes. These materials are also difficult to recycle.
8. MICC cable vs. Steel Wire Armour (SWA) cable: Which is better?
MICC cables and SWA cables are often used as power cables with the added benefit of providing an element of both fire and mechanical protection.The benefit of MICC cables is that due to their unique construction the overall diameter of the cable is far smaller than that of an SWA cable. MICC cable can also perform at higher temperatures than the SWA alternative.
SWA cables also rely on different plastics and polymers to aid their fire protection capabilities, and these can deteriorate over time. In contrast, MICC cables are a non-ageing product that do not need plastics, polymers resins or tapes to provide fire protection, this is provided by the copper sheath with a melting point of 1,085°C and magnesium oxide insulation with a melting point of 2,852°C. These materials also make MICC cable 100% recyclable.
9. How do you terminate MICC cable (also known as pyro cable)?
Terminating MICC cable requires specialised tools to cut, strip, and apply the end seals and glands. These components ensure a secure, watertight seal and safely connect the cable to electrical systems.You can watch our video for a demonstration: How to Terminate Light Duty MICC Cable
10. Where can I buy MICC cable?
You can purchase MICC cable from City Electrical Factors (CEF).Either in-store at any branch or through CEF’s online store. Visit Find a Supplier for more details.
11. Where can I buy MICC cable accessories?
MICC cable accessories are also available at City Electrical Factors (CEF).Both in-store and online.
12. What is the difference between flame retardant and fire-resistant cables?
Flame-retardant cables are primarily about limiting fire spread, often through materials that self-extinguish. They do not guarantee operation during a fire.
Fire-resistant cables aim to survive fire conditions while maintaining electrical circuit function, for a defined period.
Within the fire-resistant category:
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- Polymeric options provide some protection but may fail under true fire conditions and create toxic smoke.
- MICC cables stand out as true fire-survival cables—robust, durable, non-combustible, and trusted globally for critical safety systems.
13. What testing scenarios are used to classify a cable as ‘Fire Survival’?
For any cable to be classed as ‘Fire Survival’ it should undergo TRUE fire scenario testing involving fire, water and DIRECT impact on one single sample of cable. Wrexham Mineral Cable’s MICC does just that.
In order to satisfy one of the most globally recognised standards, London Underground devised a test for fire survival cables. The aim of the test was to extend the conditions of BS 6387 to effectively recreate a more realistic fire scenario, demonstrating what the cables maybe be subjected to in the event of a fire. This involves thermal shock and DIRECT impact on the cable sample. In a true fire scenario, cables have to survive not only the extremes of high temperatures, but also the impact from falling debris together with water and foam exposure. In the resulting aftermath of a fir, a cable may be required to withstand bending, impact and water immersion whilst remaining operational.
