Feichun PROTOLON (SB-SAM) Flexible Trailing Cable

Understanding the PROTOLON(SB-SAM) Flexible Trailing Cable

At its core, the PROTOLON(SB-SAM) is a medium-voltage flexible trailing cable rated primarily at 3.6/6 kV, with extensions up to 18/30 kV and beyond, including variants like 6/10 kV, 12/20 kV, and even 18/30 kV for higher demands. Think of it as the arterial lifeline for heavy machinery: it transmits power reliably while flexing like a gymnast in a storm.

Electrically, this cable shines with a maximum permissible operating voltage of up to 20.8/36 kV for AC and 27/54 kV for DC, tested under AC voltages reaching 43 kV. This ensures stable power delivery in high-stress environments, preventing downtime that could cost mining operations thousands per hour. The conductor design is meticulous: main conductors use electrolytic copper (non-tinned, finely stranded Class 5) for superior conductivity, while the protective-earth (PE) conductor employs very finely stranded Class FS copper for enhanced flexibility. A pilot conductor, insulated with ethylene propylene rubber (EPR)—a special compound better than standard 3GI3—adds control and monitoring capabilities, colored yellow for easy identification.

Structurally, innovation abounds. The core configuration features three main conductors laid up with a PE conductor and pilot core in the outer interstices, minimizing electrical interference. Cores are naturally colored with black semiconductive rubber and marked with white digits (1 to 3) for straightforward installation. An electrical field control layer of inner and outer semiconductive rubber manages voltage stress, preventing breakdowns.

The sheathing system is a fortress: an inseparable bond between inner and outer layers of chloroprene rubber (5GM5 compound), reinforced with extremely tear-resistant tape to halt sheath movement. This black sheath (custom colors available) provides unmatched abrasion and tear resistance, crucial for trailing operations where cables drag across rocky surfaces.

On the environmental front, the cable resists fire (per EN 60332-1-2 and IEC standards), oil (EN 60811-404), ozone, UV radiation, and moisture, making it suitable for unrestricted outdoor use. Thermally, it operates in fixed installations from -40°C to 80°C and flexibly from -30°C to 60°C, with conductor temps up to 90°C and short-circuit peaks at 250°C. Mechanically, it handles tensile loads of 20 N/mm², torsional stress of 100°/m, and bending radii per DIN VDE 0298 Part 3—specs that translate to longevity in dynamic settings.

In cable technology terms, this design embodies "trailing optimization," where flexibility meets robustness. Unlike rigid cables, the PROTOLON(SB-SAM)'s stranded conductors and EPR insulation allow it to coil and uncoil without kinking, while the reinforced sheath acts like armored skin against chafing.

Usage Scenarios in Mining and Beyond

The PROTOLON(SB-SAM) flexible trailing cable thrives in demanding mining applications, powering large mobile equipment in opencast mines. For excavators, shovels, draglines, and haul trucks, it provides reliable medium-voltage supply amid constant movement. In material handling, it energizes stackers, reclaimers, and conveyors, where abrasion from bulk materials is rampant.

Beyond mining, it's suited for extreme environment power transmission, like ports or construction sites with harsh weather. In heavy industries, it connects mobile cranes or drilling rigs, leveraging its torsional stress tolerance.

In South Africa, usage scenarios align with platinum and gold mining booms. As the country shifts to green tech—platinum for hydrogen fuel cells—electrified mines demand robust cables. Trends show increasing adoption of flexible trailing cables for automated operations, reducing human exposure to hazards.

Key Benefits

The PROTOLON(SB-SAM) flexible trailing cable isn't just wire—it's a symphony of innovations yielding tangible benefits. Foremost is its exceptional mechanical durability. In mining, cables face "abrasion and chaffing stresses" from constant dragging, but the chloroprene rubber sheath and tear-resistant reinforcement make it highly resistant to tears and physical damage. This extends service life, reducing replacement costs by up to 50% in harsh setups, as per industry benchmarks.

High abrasion and tear resistance shine in optimized trailing operations. Picture a dragline in an opencast mine: the cable trails behind, enduring rocks and debris. The PROTOLON(SB-SAM)'s design ensures smooth handling, minimizing wear and preventing "corkscrewing"—a common failure where cables twist irreversibly.

Environmental resistance is another boon. Resistant to chemicals, weather, and fire, it's ideal for extreme climates, from South Africa's scorching summers to icy winters. This aligns with 2025 trends toward sustainable mining, where cables must support electrified equipment for lower emissions.

Versatility in voltage ranges (from 6/10 kV to 18/30 kV) allows AC/DC compatibility, suiting diverse machinery like shovels and haul trucks. Certifications like MSHA P-189-4 and Russian Fire Certificate ensure global compliance, boosting safety—vital as mining accidents often stem from electrical faults.

The PROTOLON(SB-SAM) flexible trailing cable exemplifies cutting-edge cable technology, blending durability, innovation, and reliability for mining's toughest challenges. From South African case studies to global applications, it powers progress. Contact Feichun for tailored solutions—your operations deserve nothing less.