When facing engineering projects around the world, have you ever been perplexed by the complex standard systems when selecting telecommunication cables? National Standard (GB), American Standard (UL/ANSI), and European Standard (IEC/EN) are like three different "languages," understanding the differences between them is key to making correct and efficient procurement decisions.

This article will serve as your "translation manual," providing you with accessible explanations and clear comparisons to help you thoroughly grasp the core points of these three major standard systems and confidently deal with global projects.

I. Core Differences: Three Different "Technical Languages"

Before choosing specific models, it is essential to understand the logic behind the three systems:

•  National Standard (GB): A mandatory standard used in the Chinese mainland market. Its core is to ensure that products meet the safety and performance thresholds specified by the country, focusing on uniformity and access.

• American Standard (UL/ANSI): Developed by institutions like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) in the U.S. and closely linked to the National Electrical Code (NEC). The core idea is fire safety and installation specifications, with a strong emphasis on performance in building fires.

•  European Standard (IEC/EN): The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards form the basis of global technical coordination, with European Norm (EN) standards usually aligning with IEC. The core involves precise performance grading and quantification, ensuring material information transparency through the Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

Simple Metaphor:

• National Standard is like the "identity card" of a product, proving its eligibility for sale in the Chinese market.

• American Standard is like the "safety manual" of a product, detailing how and where to install it safely.

• European Standard is like the "performance health report" of a product, using data to precisely indicate its performance in various extreme conditions.

II. Comprehensive Comparison of the Three Major Standard Systems

The following table provides a detailed comparison across five key dimensions, serving as the core basis for your cable selection:

III. Practical Selection Guide: Three-Step Approach

Understanding the differences is crucial, but the key lies in application. Follow the four-step approach for selection:

Step One: Establish the "Rules of the Game" - Mandatory Requirements in the Project Location

This is a non-negotiable boundary.

• For Chinese projects: Cables with CCC certification must be chosen.

• For North American projects: Cables must comply with UL standards and NEC fire ratings (e.g., CMP, CMR).

• For EU projects: Cables must comply with CPR regulations, indicate Euroclass levels (e.g., Cca), and bear the CE mark.

Step Two: Understand the "Product Resume" - Interpret the Meaning of Model Numbers

Based on the system determined in step one, interpret the cable's model number or description.

• When you see WDZB-YJY, you should know this is a Chinese standard B-class flame-retardant, halogen-free, low-smoke cable.

• When you see CAT6A CMP, you should know this is a high-performance, ultra-fire-resistant data cable reaching 6A class suitable for ventilation ducts.

• When you see CPR Class B2ca-s1, d0, a1, you should know this is a high-security level cable with excellent flame-retardant performance (B2), low smoke production (s1), no dripping (d0), and low acidity (a1).

Step Three: Perform "Apples-to-Apples" Comparisons - Compare Under Equivalent Standards
Performance parameters of cables are comparable only within the same standard system. Do not directly compare the "price" of a Chinese standard cable with an American standard cable; instead, compare their costs under the same project requirements (e.g., equivalent flame-retardant levels).

Conclusion:

Choosing cable standards essentially means selecting a set of associated safety philosophies, technical specifications, and legal responsibilities.

• Complying with national standards is fundamental to ensure legality and compliance.

• Understanding American standards is crucial, especially focusing on their fire safety logic.

• Mastering European standards is a trend, with its quantified grading system becoming a global benchmark.

In today's globalized world, the wisest strategy is to build on the mandatory certifications in the project location and use higher and more transparent international standards as a guide for quality pursuit. By doing so, your choice is not just a cable but a long-term guarantee of safety and reliability.