AS/NZS 1972 12.7/22 kV Copper Mining Feeder Cable

Cable description: Three core copper wire screened armoured to AS/NZS 1972.

Application: Suitable as primary supply for mines and industrial networks.

Approvals: AS/NZS 1972

Behaviour in flame and fire: Flame retardant

Temperature range:

              Maximum operating temperature: +90°C

              Minimum operating temperature: -25 °C

Minimum bending radius: Installed cables 12D

Flexibility:  Rigid

Resistance to:

       Chemical exposure: Very good/Frequent

       Mechanical impact: Very heavy

       Water exposure: Water splashes

       Solar radiation and

       weather exposure: Very good/Frequent

Cable design:

XLPE insulated, screened, GSW armoured, PVC sheathed cable.

Core: Metal: Plain circular compacted copper.

Conductor screen: Extruded semiconducting compound, bonded to the insulation and applied in the same operation as the insulation.

Insulation: Cross Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) - standard.

Insulation screen: Extruded semiconducting compound.

Metallic screen: Plain annealed copper wire. Combined screen area is designed to provide not less than 50% conductance of one associated power conductor.

Armour: Galvanised steel wires.

Outer sheath: Red 5V-90 polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Installation conditions:

In free air

In duct

In ground

In trench

When mining operations move into higher power demand, longer transmission distances, and harsher environments, low-voltage cables are no longer enough. This is where the Feichun AS/NZS 1972 12.7/22 kV Copper Mining Feeder Cable becomes a core part of the power infrastructure.

Designed as a primary power supply cable for mines and industrial networks, this medium-voltage feeder cable combines XLPE insulation, copper wire screening, galvanised steel wire armour (GSW), and a heavy-duty PVC sheath, delivering long-term reliability in some of the toughest operating conditions.

What Standard Does the Feichun 12.7/22 kV Mining Feeder Cable Comply With?

The cable is fully compliant with AS/NZS 1972, the Australian/New Zealand standard for medium-voltage mining and industrial power cables.

Why does AS/NZS 1972 matter in mining?

AS/NZS 1972 focuses on:

  • Medium-voltage electrical safety

  • Screening effectiveness

  • Mechanical protection

  • Thermal performance under continuous load

For Southern African mines, especially those using Australian-designed equipment or EPC contractors, AS/NZS 1972 cables are widely accepted and frequently specified alongside SANS-aligned installation practices.

How Strong Is the Mechanical Protection of This Mining Feeder Cable?

Mining environments demand cables that can survive physical abuse, not just electrical stress.

Mechanical performance highlights:

  • Galvanised steel wire armour (GSW) for very heavy impact resistance

  • Suitable for direct burial, trenching, ducts, and free-air installations

  • High pulling tension ratings (up to 25 kN depending on size)

  • Flame-retardant outer sheath

  • Excellent resistance to: Chemicals ;Water splashes;UV and solar radiation

This makes the cable ideal for fixed high-voltage feeders in harsh mine corridors, shafts, and surface power routes.

How Does This Cable Perform in Different Installation Conditions?

Where can the cable be installed?

The Feichun AS/NZS 1972 feeder cable is suitable for:

  • In free air (clipped or spaced)

  • In ducts

  • Direct burial in ground

  • Trenches

Installation considerations:

  • Minimum bending radius during installation: 12 × cable diameter

  • Minimum bending radius in final position: reduced once set

  • Preferred duct sizes range from 100 mm to 150 mm, depending on cable size

Correct installation is critical to maintaining screen integrity and XLPE insulation life.

What Are the Typical Applications of the Feichun 22 kV Mining Feeder Cable?

Where is this cable commonly used?

This cable is primarily used as a main feeder or sub-main supply cable, including:

  • Mine intake substations

  • Underground distribution networks

  • Surface-to-shaft power feeds

  • Processing plants and crushers

  • Large conveyors and pumping systems

Its rigid construction makes it ideal for fixed installations, not trailing or reeling applications.

How Does the 12.7/22 kV Feeder Cable Compare to Lower Voltage Mining Cables?

Feeder cable vs trailing cable

Feature

22 kV Feeder Cable

LV Trailing Cable

Voltage

Medium voltage

Low voltage

Mobility

Fixed

Mobile

Armour

Steel wire

Light or none

Typical use

Main power supply

Equipment connection

Installation

Permanent

Frequent movement


What Are the Most Common FAQs About 12.7/22 kV Mining Feeder Cables?

Can this cable be used underground?

Yes. It is widely used in underground mines when installed in compliance with local regulations and proper earthing practices.

Is the cable flame retardant?

Yes. The outer sheath is flame retardant, reducing fire propagation risks.

Can it be directly buried?

Yes. The GSW armour and PVC sheath allow direct burial without additional mechanical protection.

Is aluminium available instead of copper?

This specific Feichun model uses copper conductors only, ensuring higher conductivity and fault performance.

What is the maximum operating temperature?

The maximum continuous operating temperature is +90°C, with a minimum operating temperature of –25°C.


What Should You Consider Before Selecting a 22 kV Mining Feeder Cable?

Before final selection, consider:

  • Required current capacity

  • Short-circuit levels

  • Installation method

  • Mechanical risk level

  • Local compliance requirements

  • Future load expansion

A properly sized feeder cable reduces energy losses, downtime, and long-term maintenance costs.


Why Choose Feichun AS/NZS 1972 Mining Feeder Cables?

Feichun feeder cables are designed with:

  • Proven AS/NZS compliance

  • Robust mechanical construction

  • Stable electrical performance

  • Suitability for African mining conditions

  • Engineering-focused product ranges

They are trusted by EPCs, mine owners, and electrical contractors working on high-power mining projects.


Need Help Selecting the Right 12.7/22 kV Feeder Cable?

If you’re planning a mining or industrial power project and need:

  • Cable sizing support

  • Technical datasheets

  • Project-specific recommendations

  • Competitive quotations

👉 Contact Feichun’s technical team today to get expert guidance and ensure your power network is built for long-term reliability. Email: Li.wang@feichuncables.com