BS 6708 Type 307M 1.9/3.3kV Heavy-Duty Screened Mining Cable for Excavating & Crushing Machines with EPR Insulation and Chloroprene Sheath

Mining operations in South Africa and around the world rely heavily on high-performance cables to power excavating and crushing machinery. One of the most trusted solutions is the BS 6708 Type 307M 1.9/3.3kV heavy-duty screened mining cable, designed specifically for challenging underground and surface mining environments. But what sets this cable apart from others, and why should mining engineers and procurement specialists consider it for their operations?

What Is the BS 6708 Type 307M Cable?

The BS 6708 Type 307M cable is a heavy-duty, screened mining cable rated at 1.9/3.3kV. It is engineered to supply power to excavating machines, crushers, and other heavy-duty mining equipment, where mechanical stress, electrical performance, and environmental resilience are critical. Its construction includes:

• Conductor: Electrolytic, stranded, tinned copper wire (IEC 60228 Class 5) for optimal conductivity and flexibility.

• Insulation: Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR), providing excellent electrical insulation and thermal stability. Ground core remains uninsulated.

• Separator: Colored textile tape for clear core identification.

• Screen: Tinned copper/nylon braided screen over phase and pilot cores, enhancing electromagnetic compatibility and fault protection.

• Layup: All cores are in contact with the bare copper earth conductor for improved grounding.

• Bedding & Sheath: Rubber-based bedding compound and heavy-duty chloroprene outer sheath, ensuring resistance to abrasion, oil, and chemicals.

This robust design makes the 307M suitable for the harsh conditions of underground tunnels, open-pit mines, and heavy-duty surface operations.

How Does the BS 6708 Type 307M Cable Compare to Other Mining Cables?

When evaluating mining cables, factors like voltage rating, mechanical strength, flexibility, and safety are essential. Here’s a comparison with other BS 6708 variants:

From this table, Type 307M stands out for medium-voltage heavy-duty applications, providing an optimal balance between flexibility, electrical capacity, and mechanical robustness.

Where Is the BS 6708 Type 307M Cable Used?

The 307M cable is primarily used in mining operations requiring reliable power delivery to excavating and crushing machines. Its real-world applications include:

• Underground gold and platinum mines in South Africa: Supplying mobile crushers and drilling machines in tunnels and stopes.

• Open-pit operations: Powering excavators and rock crushers while withstanding UV exposure, mechanical stress, and harsh weather.

• Surface mining and quarries: Ensuring operational continuity in abrasive and chemically aggressive environments.

A case study from a South African platinum mine revealed that switching to BS 6708 Type 307M cables reduced unplanned downtime by 15%, thanks to its improved durability under repeated mechanical stress.

What Are the Advantages of BS 6708 Type 307M Mining Cable?

1. Mechanical Strength: High-tensile copper conductors and robust chloroprene sheath resist abrasion, impact, and heavy pulling.

2. Electrical Performance: Low voltage drop, high current ratings, and screened phase cores minimize interference and energy loss.

3. Flexibility: Stranded conductor design ensures easy installation and bending around tight corners.

4. Safety: Screened cores reduce electromagnetic interference; uninsulated earth conductor ensures effective grounding.

5. Environmental Resistance: Chloroprene sheath protects against oil, chemicals, moisture, and temperature extremes.

The BS 6708 Type 307M 1.9/3.3kV screened mining cable is a robust, versatile, and reliable solution for powering excavating and crushing machinery in mining operations. Its combination of EPR insulation, screened conductors, heavy-duty chloroprene sheath, and mechanical robustness ensures that it withstands the harshest conditions while maintaining optimal electrical performance.

For South African mines, adopting the BS 6708 Type 307M translates into higher productivity, lower downtime, and safer operations. When selecting a cable for medium-voltage heavy-duty applications, this cable offers a balance of flexibility, strength, and reliability unmatched by general-purpose alternatives.