BS 6708 Type 11 640/1100V Heavy-Duty Mining Power Cable with EPR Insulation & Chloroprene Sheath for Excavating and Crushing Equipment

What Does BS 6708 Type 11 Mean in Mining Cable Applications?

BS 6708 is a British Standard that specifies flexible trailing and reeling cables used to supply power to mobile mining machinery. Type 11 refers to a specific cable construction optimized for:

• Medium-voltage power transmission (640/1100V)

• Continuous movement and mechanical stress

• Use with excavating and crushing equipment

• High electrical and environmental safety

Unlike lighter industrial cables, BS 6708 Type 11 is engineered specifically for harsh mining conditions, including vibration, abrasion, oil exposure, and repetitive bending.

How Is a BS 6708 Type 11 Mining Cable Constructed?

The durability of BS 6708 Type 11 comes from a carefully engineered multi-layer structure.

What Type of Conductor Is Used in BS 6708 Type 11?

• Material: Electrolytic, tinned copper

• Construction: Stranded, flexible

• Standard: IEC 60228 Class 5

Tinned copper improves corrosion resistance—an essential feature in humid or chemically aggressive mining environments—while Class 5 stranding ensures excellent flexibility for moving equipment.

Why Is EPR Insulation Used in Type 11 Mining Cables?

Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR) insulation offers:

• High dielectric strength

• Excellent heat resistance

• Superior flexibility at low temperatures

• Resistance to moisture and chemicals

These properties make EPR ideal for 640/1100V mining applications where thermal stability and insulation reliability are critical.

What Is the Purpose of the Screen and Separator Layers?

• Separator: Colored textile tape for clear core identification, reducing wiring errors during installation and maintenance.

• Screen: Tinned copper / nylon braided screen over phase and pilot cores.

The screening system helps:

• Reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI)

• Improve electrical safety

• Provide a controlled earth-fault path

Why Is a Chloroprene Rubber Sheath Important?

The heavy-duty chloroprene outer sheath provides:

• Outstanding abrasion resistance

• Oil, grease, and chemical resistance

• Flame retardancy

• Excellent weather and ozone resistance

This makes the cable suitable for open-pit mines, underground operations, and surface crushing plants.

What Are the Key Technical Specifications of BS 6708 Type 11?

What Is the Rated Voltage and Test Voltage?

What Is the Typical Cable Configuration?

• Cross Section: 3 × 16 mm² phase conductors + 1 × 16 mm² pilot conductor

• Overall Diameter: 30.9 – 33.0 mm

• Minimum Bending Radius: 264 mm

This balance of size and flexibility allows the cable to handle frequent movement without excessive mechanical stress.

Where Is BS 6708 Type 11 Commonly Used?

Why Is It Ideal for Excavating and Crushing Equipment?

BS 6708 Type 11 is specifically designed to supply power to:

• Hydraulic excavators

• Mobile crushers and screeners

• Feeders and conveyors

• Quarry and mining processing plants

Its flexibility, mechanical robustness, and electrical safety features make it well-suited for equipment that moves, vibrates, and operates continuously.

What Should Be Considered When Installing BS 6708 Type 11 Cables?

What Are the Best Installation Practices?

• Maintain the minimum bending radius (≥ 264 mm)

• Avoid twisting during installation

• Use proper cable clamps and strain relief

• Prevent sharp-edge contact and crushing points

• Ensure correct earthing of screens

Proper installation significantly extends service life and reduces electrical faults.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is BS 6708 Type 11 Suitable for Continuous Flexing?

Yes. With Class 5 conductors, EPR insulation, and a flexible chloroprene sheath, it is designed for continuous movement and trailing applications.

Can BS 6708 Type 11 Be Used in South African Mines?

Yes. Although a British Standard, BS 6708 Type 11 is widely accepted in South Africa, especially when aligned with mine-specific safety requirements and internal engineering specifications.

How Long Does a BS 6708 Type 11 Cable Typically Last?

Service life depends on installation quality and operating conditions, but in well-managed mining environments, 5–8 years of reliable operation is common.

Is BS 6708 Type 11 Flame Retardant?

Yes. The chloroprene outer sheath offers excellent flame-retardant properties, enhancing safety in confined mining spaces.

Why Choose BS 6708 Type 11 for Heavy-Duty Mining Operations?

BS 6708 Type 11 offers a balanced combination of electrical performance, mechanical durability, and operational safety. It is a proven solution for mines seeking:

• Reduced downtime

• Improved equipment reliability

• Compliance with demanding operational conditions

• Long-term cost efficiency

Need Expert Support for BS 6708 Type 11 Mining Cables?

If you are selecting cables for excavating or crushing equipment, choosing the right specification is critical. Consult experienced mining cable manufacturers or suppliers who understand BS 6708 requirements, South African mining conditions, and real-world application challenges.

📩 Contact a professional mining cable specialist today to ensure your project uses the safest and most cost-effective cable solution.