In South Africa’s mining and heavy industry sectors, reliable electrical infrastructure is not merely a technical necessity but a cornerstone of safety, productivity, and sustainability. One critical component of this infrastructure is submersible cables, designed for harsh environments where water, mechanical stress, and chemical exposure can quickly damage conventional cables.

Among the most widely used types are NSSHOEU and NTSWOEU submersible cables, which are designed in compliance with VDE 0250 Part 812 and Part 813 standards. These cables are engineered to withstand immersion in water, resist oil and chemical exposure, tolerate high mechanical stress, and maintain excellent flexibility. They are particularly vital in submersible pump applications within South African mines, where reliable water management is essential to prevent flooding and ensure continuous operations.

Cable Types and Standards

NSSHOEU Cables (0.6/1kV)

• Applications: Primarily used for powering submersible pumps and electrical equipment in industrial water environments.

• Special Feature: 3-core versions without earth cores can rely on the ascending pipe as the earthing conductor.

• Standards:

  • VDE 0250 Part 812

  • VDE 0250 Part 813

NTSWOEU Cables (1.8/3kV and 3.6/6kV)

• Applications: High-voltage connections for submersible pumps, used when pumping water from deep shafts or large-scale underground mining operations.

• Standards: Same as above, ensuring compliance with stringent German and European quality guidelines.

Benefits of NSSHOEU and NTSWOEU Submersible Cables

1. High Flexibility – Allows for easier installation in narrow shafts and around bends.

2. Corrosion Resistance – Tinned copper conductors reduce the risk of oxidation in wet environments.

3. Thermal Stability – EPR insulation ensures reliable performance even with fluctuating temperatures in underground mines.

4. Mechanical Durability – Rubber sheathing resists abrasion and tearing.

5. Oil and Flame Resistance – Essential in industrial environments where flammable materials are present.

6. Standard Compliance – VDE-tested for global acceptance, supporting export and regulatory approvals.

Usage Scenarios in South Africa

Underground Gold and Platinum Mines

South Africa’s Witwatersrand Basin and Bushveld Complex remain major global suppliers of gold and platinum. Flooding is a constant risk, and submersible pumps powered by NSSHOEU/NTSWOEU cables are essential for dewatering operations. Without them, underground tunnels could become inaccessible within hours.

Coal Mines in Mpumalanga

Open-cast and underground coal mines rely on heavy-duty dewatering systems. High-voltage NTSWOEU cables are particularly useful for powering large-capacity pumps in waterlogged areas.

Infrastructure and Industrial Water Management

Beyond mining, these cables are also used in municipal water pumping stations and industrial wastewater management plants, where reliability under water is a top priority.

NSSHOEU and NTSWOEU submersible cables are more than just electrical components—they are lifelines for South Africa’s mining and heavy industry sectors. Their robust design, compliance with international standards, and proven field performance make them essential for submersible pumps and industrial water management systems.

In an environment where safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance drive success, investing in high-quality submersible cables is not a luxury but a necessity. For South African mines facing water management challenges, these cables provide the durability, reliability, and peace of mind required to keep operations running smoothly.