BS 6708 Type 43 125/72V Armoured Mining Cable for Hand-Held Drilling Machines with EPR Insulation and Heavy-Duty Chloroprene Sheath
APPLICATION:
Used for supplying hand-held drilling machines
Cable Structure:
CONDUCTOR : Electrolytic, stranded, tinned copper wire IEC 60228 Class 5
INSULATION : EPR
LAYUP : All cores are laid up without contacting each other.
BEDDING : Conducting elastromeric compound.
OUTER SHEATH : Heavy duty chloroprene outer sheath.
Cable Properties:
RELATED STANDARDS : BS 6708
RATED VOLTAGE : 125/72 V
TEST VOLTAGE : 1,5 kV
Technical Specifications:
Cross Section | 5×6 | |
|---|---|---|
Conductors | ||
Number and cross section | mm2 | 5×6 |
Insulation thickness | mm | 1.0 |
Cable details | ||
Radial thickness of conducting elastomeric inner sheath | mm | 1.5 |
Outer sheath thickness | mm | 2.5 |
Min. overall diameter | mm | 24.8 |
Max. overall diameter | mm | 26.8 |
Min. bending radius | mm | 268 |
Appx. cable weight | kg/km | 1.02 |
Copper weight | kg/km | 150 |
Electrical details | ||
“Continuous current | A | 46 |
Max. DC resistance at 20°C | ||
Conductors | Ω /km | 3.48 |
What Is the BS 6708 Type 43 Mining Cable?
The BS 6708 Type 43 cable is a low-voltage, armoured cable specifically designed for hand-held drilling equipment in underground and surface mining. Developed under the BS 6708 standard, it ensures compliance with rigorous safety and performance criteria required in challenging mining environments. Its 125/72V rated voltage makes it suitable for compact, portable machines where flexibility and durability are essential.
Key highlights include:
Conductor: Electrolytic, stranded, tinned copper wire (IEC 60228 Class 5)
Insulation: Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR)
Outer Sheath: Heavy-duty chloroprene for mechanical protection
Core Arrangement: Laid up without contact, reducing risk of internal short circuits
Where Is the BS 6708 Type 43 Cable Used?
This cable is primarily used in hand-held drilling machines across underground and surface mining operations. Specific applications include:
Stoping and tunneling operations – Providing power for compact drilling machines in confined spaces.
Rock bolting and scaling – Durable enough for repeated movement and heavy-duty use.
Exploration drilling – Flexibility allows operators to maneuver equipment safely.
How Does BS 6708 Type 43 Compare with Other Mining Cables?
Mining cables come in various types, each suited to specific applications. Here’s a quick comparison:
Feature | BS 6708 Type 43 | BS 6708 Type 44 | BS 6708 Type 630 |
|---|---|---|---|
Voltage | 125/72 V | 125/72 V | 3.8/6.6 kV |
Insulation | EPR | EPR | EPR |
Armouring | No (flexible hand-held) | Screened phase cores | Armoured for heavy machinery |
Application | Hand-held drills | Hand-held drills with pilot cores | Excavators, crushers |
Bending Flexibility | High | High | Medium |
Sheath Material | Chloroprene | Chloroprene | Heavy-duty Chloroprene |
Key takeaway: Type 43 is optimized for hand-held equipment, offering maximum flexibility and protection, while Type 630 is for heavy machinery with higher voltages.
What Are the Installation Guidelines?
Proper installation ensures safety and longevity. Here are recommended practices:
Avoid sharp bends: Maintain a minimum bending radius of 268 mm.
Keep dry during installation: Although the outer sheath is water-resistant, prolonged exposure during installation can compromise performance.
Secure connections: Use certified terminals and follow grounding protocols.
Regular inspections: Look for abrasion, cuts, or kinks. Replace if mechanical damage is detected.
Avoid excessive tension: Straining the cable can damage internal conductors and reduce lifespan.
FAQ: Common Questions About BS 6708 Type 43 Mining Cable
Can I use this cable for high-voltage mining equipment?
No, Type 43 is rated at 125/72V. For high-voltage machinery, consider BS 6708 Type 630/631, which is designed for 3.8/6.6 kV applications.
Is the cable suitable for wet or damp environments?
Yes, the chloroprene sheath provides excellent water and chemical resistance, making it suitable for underground mining with moisture exposure.
How long does the cable typically last?
With proper installation and handling, Type 43 cables can last several years, depending on operating conditions. Mechanical wear is the main factor affecting lifespan.
Can the cable be repaired if damaged?
Minor sheath abrasions can be temporarily repaired, but internal conductor damage requires replacement to maintain safety and compliance.
How flexible is the cable for confined spaces?
Very flexible. Its stranded tinned copper conductors and EPR insulation allow operators to maneuver hand-held drills easily in tight underground tunnels.
Why Choose BS 6708 Type 43 Over Alternatives?
Durability: Heavy-duty outer sheath resists abrasion and chemical exposure.
Flexibility: Ideal for hand-held drilling operations in confined mining spaces.
Compliance: Fully meets BS 6708 standards.
Safety: EPR insulation minimizes risk of short circuits and electrical failures.
Proven Performance: Widely used in South African mines, with positive operational feedback.
Is BS 6708 Type 43 Right for Your Mining Operation?
For engineers and mining operators seeking reliable, safe, and flexible cable for hand-held drilling machines, BS 6708 Type 43 is a standout choice. Its combination of EPR insulation, chloroprene sheath, and mechanical robustness ensures long-lasting performance even in the harshest underground conditions.
Whether you are upgrading equipment or establishing a new mining operation, investing in high-quality mining cables like Type 43 can reduce downtime, enhance safety, and improve overall productivity.
If your mining operation requires safe, durable, and flexible power solutions, consult a certified supplier today to get BS 6708 Type 43 cables that meet your specific application requirements. Investing in quality cables is not just a choice—it’s a commitment to operator safety and operational efficiency.
