Heavy Duty PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU Reeling Cable with PROTOFIRM Sheath – 1.8/3kV to 12/20kV Voltage Options

Introduction

In the demanding world of industrial operations, where massive container cranes traverse port terminals and heavy-duty mining equipment operates under extreme conditions, the reliability of electrical infrastructure becomes paramount. Industrial reeling cables serve as the critical lifeline that powers these dynamic systems, ensuring uninterrupted energy transmission despite constant mechanical stress, environmental challenges, and high-speed operational demands.

The PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU reeling cable represents a pinnacle of engineering excellence in modern high-dynamic environments. This heavy-duty reeling cable is specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of port operations, mining facilities, and industrial applications where traditional cables would fail under the extreme stresses of continuous reeling, torsional forces, and harsh environmental conditions. With its innovative PROTOFIRM sheath technology and robust construction, this flexible reeling cable has become the preferred choice for engineers seeking reliable power transmission solutions in the most challenging industrial settings.

Voltage Range and Applications

The PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU cable system offers comprehensive voltage coverage across five distinct classes, making it suitable for a wide spectrum of industrial applications. The available voltage ratings include 1.8/3 kV, 3.6/6 kV, 6/10 kV, 8.7/15 kV, and 12/20 kV, providing engineers with the flexibility to select the appropriate specification for their specific power requirements.

This medium voltage reeling cable 1.8/3kV to 12/20kV range makes it ideal for reeling cable for port crane applications, where different crane types require varying power levels. Ship-to-shore (STS) gantry cranes typically utilize the higher voltage variants for their massive lifting capacities, while rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes often operate effectively with mid-range voltage options. The versatility extends to container spreaders, where precise control and reliable power delivery are essential for efficient cargo handling operations.

The cable's application scope encompasses motorized reeling drums, cable festoon systems, and drag chain installations across diverse industrial sectors. In mining operations, these cables power heavy-duty conveyor systems and mobile equipment that must operate continuously in harsh underground conditions. Port terminals rely on these cables for automated container handling systems, where the combination of high mechanical stress and the need for integrated communication capabilities makes the (N)TSCGEWOEU cable with anti-torsion braid an optimal solution.

Key Features of PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU

The PROTOLON reeling cable incorporates several advanced engineering features that distinguish it from conventional industrial cables. The high mechanical strength and resistance characteristics are achieved through the use of tinned electrolytic copper conductors, finely stranded to Class FS standards. This construction ensures excellent conductivity while providing superior resistance to mechanical strain, a critical requirement for applications involving continuous cable movement and torsional stress.

One of the most innovative aspects of this flexible reeling cable with PROTOFIRM sheath is its optional integration of fiber-optic elements for signal transmission. This dual-functionality approach allows the cable to simultaneously provide power transmission and high-speed data communication, making it particularly valuable in modern automated port operations and industrial control systems. The drag chain cable with fiber-optic elements configuration enables sophisticated monitoring and control capabilities essential for Industry 4.0 applications.

The cable's construction incorporates flame-retardant, oil-resistant, and UV-resistant properties, ensuring reliable operation across diverse environmental conditions. The oil resistance, certified to DIN EN 60811-404 and DIN VDE 0473-811-404 standards, makes it suitable for environments where hydraulic fluids and lubricants are present. The UV resistance enables unrestricted outdoor use, while the flame-retardant properties provide essential safety features for industrial installations.

PROTOLON SMK + PROTOFIRM Sheath Technology

The PROTOFIRM sheath technology represents a significant advancement in cable protection systems, specifically engineered for high-stress industrial applications. This innovative outer sheath utilizes high-grade rubber compounds based on polychloroprene (PCP), delivering exceptional abrasion resistance and maintaining a low coefficient of friction during reeling operations. The bright red color of the PROTOFIRM sheath not only provides high visibility in industrial settings but also serves as a safety indicator for personnel working around heavy machinery.

The benefits of PROTOFIRM sheath technology become particularly evident in harsh port and mining environments where cables are subjected to continuous mechanical stress, exposure to chemicals, and extreme weather conditions. The enhanced abrasion resistance significantly extends cable service life by protecting the internal components from wear caused by contact with reeling drums, pulleys, and support structures. The low friction coefficient reduces the mechanical load on reeling systems, resulting in improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements.

The anti-torsion braid design incorporated within the PROTOFIRM system provides crucial protection against twisting forces that can occur during continuous flex operations. This polyester braid reinforcement prevents torsional damage while maintaining cable flexibility, ensuring reliable performance even in applications involving frequent directional changes and high-speed movements. The combination of mechanical protection and flexibility makes this cable ideal for mobile equipment requiring both durability and operational agility.

Standards and Compliance

The PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU reeling cable is manufactured in strict accordance with VDE 0250 Part 813 and DIN EN/IEC standards, ensuring compliance with international safety and performance requirements. This certification provides assurance that the cable meets the rigorous testing standards required for industrial applications, including mechanical stress tests, electrical performance verification, and environmental resistance evaluations.

The cable's compliance with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) regulations demonstrates the manufacturer's commitment to environmental responsibility and worker safety. This compliance ensures that the cable contains no harmful substances such as lead, mercury, or cadmium, making it suitable for use in environmentally sensitive applications and facilitating proper disposal at the end of its service life.

CE marking certification confirms that the cable meets European Union safety, health, and environmental protection standards, enabling its use across European markets and international projects that require CE compliance. The cable is specifically designed for drum reeling systems with or without fiber optics, providing engineers with the flexibility to specify the appropriate configuration for their specific application requirements.

Installation & Maintenance Advantages

The PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU cable offers significant advantages in both installation and maintenance phases of its lifecycle. The lightweight yet durable construction reduces installation complexity and minimizes the structural requirements for support systems. Despite its robust capabilities, the cable maintains an optimal weight-to-strength ratio that simplifies handling during installation while ensuring long-term durability under operational stresses.

The cable's design facilitates easy installation on both vertical and horizontal reels, accommodating diverse industrial configurations without requiring specialized installation procedures. The flexible construction allows for efficient cable routing around obstacles and through confined spaces, while the PROTOFIRM sheath provides protection against installation damage. The "easy strip" design of the electrical field control layers simplifies termination procedures, reducing installation time and ensuring reliable connections.

Long service life with low maintenance requirements represents a key economic advantage of this reeling cable system. The combination of high-quality materials, robust construction, and protective sheath technology results in extended operational periods between maintenance interventions. The oil-resistant and weather-resistant properties minimize degradation from environmental exposure, while the anti-torsion design prevents common failure modes associated with cable twisting and mechanical stress.

Technical Specifications

The cable's electrical field control system incorporates an inner semiconductive layer of EPR and an outer semiconductive layer of modified NBR, providing reliable insulation performance across all voltage ratings. The water barrier properties, compliant with HD 2216 guidelines, ensure reliable operation in wet environments common in port and marine applications.

Why Choose (N)TSCGEWOEU for Port and Mobile Equipment?

The (N)TSCGEWOEU designation represents a specific engineering approach optimized for the unique demands of port and mobile equipment applications. The enhanced flexibility under load ensures reliable operation even when cables are subjected to dynamic tensile forces, sudden direction changes, and variable loading conditions typical in container handling operations.

The cable's resistance to repeated torsion, bending, and tension makes it particularly suitable for equipment that operates in complex movement patterns. Port cranes, for example, must simultaneously handle lifting motions, horizontal travel, and trolley movements, creating complex stress patterns that would quickly damage conventional cables. The anti-torsion braid and PROTOFIRM sheath work together to absorb these stresses while maintaining electrical and mechanical integrity.

The design specifically addresses the requirements of continuous winding and unwinding operations in port environments. Unlike stationary installations, reeling cables must maintain performance characteristics throughout millions of flex cycles while exposed to saltwater environments, temperature variations, and mechanical loading. The combination of corrosion-resistant tinned copper conductors and weather-resistant outer sheath ensures reliable long-term performance in these challenging conditions.

Conclusion

The PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU reeling cable with PROTOFIRM sheath represents a comprehensive solution for the most demanding industrial applications. Its combination of advanced materials technology, robust construction, and engineering optimization for high-stress environments makes it the preferred choice for engineers seeking reliable power transmission in dynamic industrial settings.

The cable's versatility across multiple voltage ranges, integration capabilities for fiber-optic communications, and superior environmental resistance provide a complete solution for modern industrial operations. Whether powering massive port cranes, supporting mining operations, or enabling automated manufacturing systems, this heavy-duty reeling cable delivers the reliability and performance required for mission-critical applications.

For detailed technical specifications, custom configurations, or project-specific quotations, contact our engineering team to discuss your specific requirements. Our expertise in industrial cable solutions ensures that you receive the optimal cable configuration for your application, backed by comprehensive technical support and industry-leading warranty coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What applications is the PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU reeling cable suitable for?

This cable is ideal for high-flex, heavy-duty applications such as port cranes (RTG, STS), ship loaders, mining equipment, container spreaders, and motorized reels that require reliable energy and signal transmission under continuous motion.

2. What voltage levels are available for this reeling cable?

The PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU reeling cable is available in multiple rated voltages: 1.8/3kV, 3.6/6 kV, 6/10 kV, 8.7/15kV, and 12/20 kV.

3. What is the benefit of the PROTOFIRM sheath?

The PROTOFIRM sheath offers superior mechanical protection, abrasion resistance, oil resistance, and excellent performance under continuous bending, torsion, and outdoor exposure. It also reduces wear on cable drums and pulleys.

4. Does this cable support fiber-optic integration?

Yes, the (N)TSCGEWOEU design can be manufactured with integrated fiber-optic elements for signal or data transmission, commonly used in automated port crane systems requiring communication and control.

5. What is the temperature and bending performance of this cable?

This cable operates in temperatures ranging from –40°C to +90°C (in motion), with high flex endurance. The minimum bending radius typically starts from 10×D (depending on configuration), making it ideal for dynamic reeling applications.

6. Is the PROTOLON (SMK) (N)TSCGEWOEU cable compliant with international standards?

Yes. It complies with VDE 0250 Part 813, CE, RoHS, and other international standards, ensuring safe use in regulated port and industrial environments.

7. Can this cable be customized?

Absolutely. You can request variations in conductor size, sheath color, number of cores, with or without fiber optics, and different voltage classes, depending on your project requirements.