BS 6708 Type 62 / Type 63 / Type 64 640/1100V Screened & Armoured Heavy-Duty Mining Power Cable for Excavating, Crushing Equipment and Coalface Lighting (EPR Insulation, Steel Armour, Chloroprene Sheath)

In the mining industry, reliable and durable power delivery is non-negotiable. Excavating, crushing, and coalface lighting equipment demand cables that can endure extreme mechanical stress, harsh environmental conditions, and continuous operation. The BS 6708 Type 62, Type 63, and Type 64 screened and armoured heavy-duty mining power cables meet these stringent requirements, offering a balance of performance, safety, and longevity. But what exactly makes these cables suited for mining applications, and how do they differ?

What Are BS 6708 Type 62, 63, and 64 Mining Cables?

BS 6708 is a British Standard that specifies requirements for heavy-duty, flexible power cables designed for mining and industrial applications. Type 62, 63, and 64 cables are engineered for supplying power to excavating and crushing machinery, as well as coalface lighting.

All three types feature:

• Electrolytic, stranded, tinned copper conductors (IEC 60228 Class 5) for excellent electrical conductivity and flexibility.

• EPR (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) insulation, which provides outstanding thermal and chemical resistance.

• Screening using tinned copper or nylon braided layers over phase and pilot cores to reduce electrical interference.

• Galvanized steel pliable armour for mechanical protection.

• Heavy-duty chloroprene outer sheath to resist abrasion, oil, and weathering.

The combination of insulation, screening, and armour ensures that these cables maintain performance in the harsh environments typical of underground and surface mining.

How Do Type 62, 63, and 64 Cables Differ?

Although these cables share a common design philosophy, their specifications vary slightly to accommodate different power and mechanical requirements. Here’s a concise comparison:

While current ratings remain similar, the Type 63 and 64 cables provide higher mechanical strength and copper content, making them more suitable for longer cable runs or environments with increased pulling and abrasion stress.

Where Are These Cables Used in South African Mines?

BS 6708 Type 62, 63, and 64 cables have been extensively deployed across South Africa’s gold, platinum, and coal mining sectors. Typical applications include:

• Excavating machines: Delivering high-current power to loaders, conveyors, and diggers.

• Crushing equipment: Feeding jaw crushers, cone crushers, and milling machines.

• Coalface lighting: Supplying power to underground lighting systems, improving miner safety and productivity.

A case study from a platinum mine in the Rustenburg region highlights the effectiveness of Type 64 cables. The mine replaced older, unarmoured cables prone to mechanical failure with Type 64 BS 6708 cables, resulting in a 50% reduction in downtime caused by cable damage.

What Are the Common Questions About BS 6708 Mining Cables?

Which BS 6708 Type Should I Choose for My Mine?

• Type 62: Suitable for short-distance, light-duty operations with minimal mechanical stress.

• Type 63: For medium-duty applications with moderate pulling and bending requirements.

• Type 64: Best for heavy-duty, long-distance installations or high-abrasion areas.

Can These Cables Be Used for Both Surface and Underground Mining?

Yes. The EPR insulation, steel armour, and chloroprene sheath make these cables versatile for underground tunnels, open-pit operations, and surface processing plants.

How Long Can These Cables Last in a Harsh Mining Environment?

With proper installation and maintenance, BS 6708 cables can operate reliably for 10–15 years in underground mines. Frequent inspections and avoiding exceeding mechanical ratings will maximize lifespan.

Why Choose BS 6708 for Your Mining Operation?

BS 6708 Type 62, 63, and 64 cables provide:

• Superior mechanical strength for underground and surface mining.

• EPR insulation for thermal and chemical resilience.

• Armouring and screening for electrical and physical protection.

• Proven reliability in South African mining operations.

Investing in high-quality mining cables is not just a safety measure—it ensures operational continuity, reduces downtime, and enhances productivity.

Call to Action: For mines seeking durable and flexible power cables, BS 6708 Type 62, 63, and 64 offer the ideal combination of performance, reliability, and compliance with international standards. Contact your authorized supplier to evaluate the best type for your application and obtain technical support for installation.