Can a Photovoltaic Cable Be Both Fire-Resistant and Waterproof?

XLPO, used in CCA-rated cables, offers excellent flame resistance and emits no toxic gases during combustion—making it ideal for fire-prone environments. In contrast, XLPE, used in AD8 cables, delivers exceptional waterproofing and resistance to hydrolysis but lacks intrinsic flame resistance.

2. Process Incompatibility

The manufacturing techniques and additives used for each function can interfere with the other:

• Fire-resistant cables require flame retardants like aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide, which tend to reduce the tightness and sealing integrity needed for waterproofing.

• Waterproof cables demand high molecular density and uniformity. However, the inclusion of fire-retardant fillers can compromise their water barrier properties.

In essence, optimizing one function often comes at the expense of the other.

Application-Based Recommendations

Given the trade-offs in material and design, the optimal cable choice depends heavily on the installation environment and operational risks.

A. Use CCA Fire-Resistant Cables for PV Modules to Inverter Connections

Typical Environments:

• Rooftop solar installations

• Ground-mounted PV farms

• Utility-scale solar fields

Why Fire Resistance Matters:

• These systems are often exposed to direct sunlight, dust, and high DC voltage

• The risk of overheating or electrical arcing is high

• Moisture presence is typically intermittent rather than submerged

Suggested Safety Enhancements:

• Install cables in UV-resistant conduits

• Maintain proper spacing to prevent overheating

• Use fire-retardant trays near inverters and junction boxes

B. Use AD8 Waterproof Cables for Buried or Submerged Applications

Typical Environments:

• Floating PV systems (reservoirs, lakes)

• Offshore solar farms

• Underground DC cable installations

Why Waterproofing Matters:

• Continuous exposure to water can lead to jacket degradation and insulation breakdown

• Water ingress causes corrosion and accelerates failure

Suggested Safety Enhancements:

• Use double-jacketed cables (inner waterproof + outer flame-retardant)

• Seal connections with waterproof connectors and enclosures

• Consider gel-filled or pressure-tight designs for submerged zones

Advanced Solutions for Complex Environments

In some projects—such as hybrid solar + hydro plants, industrial solar setups, or installations in tropical and coastal regions—both fire and water resistance are equally important. These environments pose:

• High risk of short-circuit fires due to dense energy flows

• Constant moisture or submersion

• Long-term outdoor exposure

To meet these challenges, WinpowerCable offers advanced cables that combine:

• DCA-grade fire resistance (European CPR fire safety standard)

• AD7/AD8-grade waterproofing, suitable for temporary or permanent submersion

These dual-function cables are engineered with:

• Hybrid insulation systems

• Layered protective structures

• Optimized materials to balance fire retardancy and water sealing

Conclusion: Balancing Performance with Practicality

While it is technically difficult to achieve both CCA-level fire resistance and AD8-level waterproofing in a single material system, practical solutions can be engineered for specific use cases. Understanding the distinct advantages of each cable type and tailoring cable selection to the actual environmental risks is key to project success.

In high-temperature, high-voltage, fire-prone zones—prioritize CCA fire-resistant cables.
In wet, submerged, or moisture-heavy areas—choose AD8 waterproof cables.
For complex, high-risk environments—opt for integrated DCA+AD8 certified cable systems.

Ultimately, smart cable design is essential for safe, efficient, and long-lasting photovoltaic systems. WinpowerCable continues to innovate in this field, helping solar projects perform reliably no matter how extreme the conditions.