PROTOLON (FL)-LWL (N)TSFLCGEWOEU 3.6/6kV Medium Voltage Flat Reeling Cable with Fibre-Optics – Advanced Power & Data Solution for Cranes and Port Operations

Flexible, high-performance cable engineered to withstand dynamic loads and harsh maritime environments, ensuring reliable energy and communication for fast-moving container cranes and heavy material handling equipment

PROTOLON (FL)-LWL (N)TSFLCGEWOEU cable is a flexible, medium voltage flat reeling cable engineered for high mechanical stress applications.

Designed specifically for fast-moving container cranes, shipyards, and heavy mobile equipment, this cable integrates fiber optics for the combined transmission of energy and data. Its robust construction and advanced design make it an ideal solution for demanding industrial environments such as port operations and material handling systems.

Key Features

  • High Mechanical Stress Resistance:
    Built to endure dynamic tensile loads, repeated bending, and multiple directional changes (e.g., roller bending and reversed bending), ensuring reliable performance even under the toughest operating conditions.

  • Integrated Fiber Optics:
    The cable features six optical tubes arranged around a central support element, each capable of housing one, two, or three optical fibers. This integration allows simultaneous transmission of power and high-speed data, crucial for modern automation and monitoring systems in cranes and material handling.

  • Flexible and Durable Design:
    Manufactured with finely stranded, tinned copper conductors (Class 5), the cable’s structure includes a parallel core arrangement with an earth conductor that is split and concentrically distributed around each core. Its flat profile minimizes bending stress, making it perfect for applications with continuous motion.

Compliance with International Standards

The cable adheres to several critical standards, ensuring top-level performance and safety:

  • DIN VDE 0298-4 and DIN VDE 0250-813 – Guidelines for installation and conductor design.

  • DIN EN 60228/IEC 60228/VDE 0295 – Standards for conductor properties.

  • DIN EN 60811-404/IEC 60811-404 – Requirements for cable insulation and mechanical resistance.

  • HD 2216 – Additional performance and durability specifications.

Construction and Material Details

  • Conductor and Insulation:

    • Conductors: Finely stranded, tinned copper (Class 5) with individual concentric conductors.

    • Core Insulation: Made from high-performance EPR rubber (PROTOLON HS with a special compound) that provides excellent electrical insulation.

    • Semi-Conductive Layers: Both inner and outer layers are made of semi-conductive EPR to ensure optimal electrical performance.

  • Outer Sheath:
    Constructed with durable rubber (polychloroprene or PCP) enhanced with a specialized compound, the outer sheath is engineered to be oil-resistant, UV-resistant, ozone-resistant, and flame retardant (in accordance with EN/IEC 60332-1-2).

Electrical and Mechanical Properties

  • Voltage Ratings:

    • Rated Voltage: 3.6/6kV (with an option up to 7.2kV)

    • Test Voltage: 11 kV

    • Nominal Voltage: 6000 V

  • Temperature Tolerance:

    • Continuous Conductor Temperature: Up to 90°C

    • Short-Circuit Temperature: Up to 250°C

    • Ambient Temperature for Fixed Installations: -50°C to 80°C

    • Ambient Temperature for Flexible Installations: -35°C to 80°C

  • Mechanical Resilience:

    • Permanent Tensile Strength: 15 N/mm²

    • High Reeling Speeds: Supports gantry reeling operations at speeds up to 120 m/min

    • Bending Radius Guidelines:

      • 6 x D for fixed installations

      • 10 x D for flexible operations

      • 20 x D minimum for S-type directional changes (with D representing the applied cable diameter, calculated as 1.5 times the flat cable height)

Integrated Fiber Optic Specifications

The cable incorporates high-performance fiber optics designed for modern data transmission:

  • Fiber Types:

    • Multi-mode Graded Index: G62.5/125 µm and G50/125 µm

    • Single-mode Graded Index: E9/125 µm

  • Performance Metrics:

    • Attenuation: Low attenuation values (e.g., < 3.3 dB/km at 850 nm for G62.5/125 µm and < 0.3 dB/km at 1550 nm for single-mode fibers)

    • Bandwidth: High bandwidth capacities, exceeding 400 MHz at 850 nm and reaching up to 1200 MHz at 1310 nm

    • Numerical Aperture and Dispersion: Optimized for efficient light transmission with precise values for numerical aperture and minimal chromatic dispersion in single-mode fibers

Product Variants and Customization

Multiple product variants are available to meet various application requirements in cranes and material handling:

  • Variant Examples:

    • 20004465: With a conductor diameter of 8.3 mm, offering a flat profile height between 24.5 mm and 27.5 mm and a cable weight of 3700 kg/km.

    • 20015923: Features a larger conductor of 9.8 mm with a slightly reduced flat profile and increased cable weight.

    • FL_LWL_6KV_001: Offers a conductor diameter of 11.4 mm with increased height and width, designed for higher current capacities and enhanced durability.

    • 20155087: The most robust variant with a conductor diameter of 13.3 mm, providing maximum current-carrying capability and mechanical strength for the most demanding applications.

Applications and Benefits

  • Cranes and Material Handling:
    Designed for fast-moving container cranes and heavy mobile equipment, this cable ensures reliable power and data transmission in environments subject to constant movement and high mechanical stress.

  • Industrial and Port Applications:
    Ideal for shipyards, port operations, and other maritime settings where durability, safety, and efficiency are critical.

  • Enhanced Operational Efficiency:
    The integration of fiber optics with power transmission simplifies cabling systems, reduces installation time, and facilitates real-time monitoring and control.

  • Safety and Durability:
    The robust construction and compliance with international standards ensure that the cable performs safely and reliably in harsh conditions, providing a long service life and reducing maintenance costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Q: What is the PROTOLON (FL)-LWL (N)TSFLCGEWOEU 3.6/6kV cable?


    A: It is a flexible, medium voltage flat reeling cable that integrates fiber-optics for simultaneous power and data transmission, specifically designed for heavy-duty port and shipbuilding applications.

  • Q: What voltage ratings does this cable support?


    A: The cable is rated at 3.6/6kV (with an option up to 7.2kV) and is tested at 11kV, ensuring robust electrical performance in medium voltage systems.

  • Q: How does the cable combine power and data transmission?


    A: Integrated fiber-optic tubes run alongside the conductors, enabling the cable to deliver both electrical energy and high-speed data signals in a single, streamlined installation.

  • Q: What makes this cable ideal for port shipbuilding and material handling?


    A: Its flexible design, high mechanical strength, and integrated fiber-optics allow it to withstand dynamic loads, frequent directional changes, and environmental stresses common in port and shipyard operations.

  • Q: How does the cable resist high mechanical stresses?


    A: It is engineered with finely stranded, tinned copper conductors, robust EPR rubber insulation, and a flat profile that minimizes bending stress during repeated reeling and directional changes.

  • Q: What is the significance of the flat reeling design for crane operations?


    A: The flat design reduces friction and bending strain, which is essential for fast-moving container cranes and heavy equipment that undergo rapid, repeated reeling.

  • Q: How does the cable perform under the dynamic tensile loads typical in port environments?


    A: With a permanent tensile strength of 15 N/mm², the cable is designed to maintain its integrity even under constant high-tension and dynamic loads.

  • Q: Is the cable resistant to oil, UV radiation, and ozone?


    A: Yes, the cable’s outer sheath is made of specially compounded polychloroprene (PCP) rubber, offering excellent resistance to oil, UV exposure, and ozone – crucial for harsh marine and port conditions.

  • Q: What type of conductors are used in this cable?


    A: It uses finely stranded, tinned copper (Class 5) conductors, ensuring high electrical conductivity and longevity in demanding applications.

  • Q: How does the cable’s insulation technology protect against electrical failures?


    A: The insulation is made from high-performance EPR rubber (PROTOLON HS) with specialized compounds, combined with inner and outer semi-conductive layers, providing robust electrical insulation and stability.

  • Q: How does the cable handle extreme temperature variations in port and shipyard environments?


    A: It is designed for fixed installations from -50°C to 80°C and flexible installations from -35°C to 80°C, while the conductor can continuously operate up to 90°C and withstand up to 250°C during short-circuit conditions.

  • Q: What ambient temperature ranges are suitable for this cable?


    A: The cable is suitable for fixed installations in temperatures ranging from -50°C to 80°C and for flexible applications from -35°C to 80°C.

  • Q: How does the cable maintain performance in humid, salty port environments?


    A: Its durable insulation and protective outer sheath resist corrosion and degradation from saltwater, humidity, and other environmental factors common in maritime settings.

  • Q: Which international standards does the cable comply with?


    A: The cable meets standards such as DIN VDE 0298-4, DIN VDE 0250-813, DIN EN 60228/IEC 60228/VDE 0295, and DIN EN 60811-404/IEC 60811-404, ensuring high quality and safety.

  • Q: How does the cable ensure flame retardancy in high-risk shipyard environments?


    A: It is designed in accordance with EN/IEC 60332-1-2 standards, which means it is flame retardant, adding an extra layer of safety in potentially hazardous settings.

  • Q: What is the maximum continuous operating temperature of the cable’s conductors?


    A: The conductors can operate continuously at up to 90°C, ensuring reliable performance even under heavy load conditions.

  • Q: How is the bending radius of the cable determined?


    A: Following VDE 0298-3 guidelines, the recommended bending radius is 6 times the cable diameter for fixed installations, 10 times for flexible operations, and 20 times for S-type directional changes.

  • Q: What are the specifications of the integrated fiber optics?


    A: The cable features six optical tubes arranged around a central support, accommodating multi-mode fibers (G62.5/125 µm and G50/125 µm) and single-mode fibers (E9/125 µm) with low attenuation and high bandwidth.

  • Q: How does fiber-optic integration benefit port operations?


    A: It allows for real-time monitoring, automation, and control of equipment by transmitting high-speed data alongside power, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.

  • Q: What current carrying capacity does this cable offer?


    A: The cable is engineered to handle the high current demands of heavy machinery in port operations, ensuring reliable power delivery for cranes and other mobile equipment.

  • Q: How does the parallel core arrangement contribute to electrical safety?


    A: It ensures even current distribution and minimizes the risk of electrical hotspots, enhancing both performance and safety during operation.

  • Q: How does the cable perform during high-speed reeling operations?


    A: Designed for fast-paced environments, the cable supports gantry reeling speeds up to 120 m/min, allowing for rapid deployment and efficient handling on-site.

  • Q: What testing procedures verify the cable's durability and safety?


    A: The cable undergoes rigorous electrical and mechanical tests—including high voltage, tensile, and bending tests—to ensure compliance with international standards and reliable performance under stress.

  • Q: How does the cable reduce downtime in port operations?


    A: Its robust design and integrated power/data transmission simplify installation and maintenance, minimizing disruptions and enhancing operational uptime.

  • Q: Can the cable be used in both fixed and flexible installations?


    A: Yes, the cable is versatile and designed for both fixed installations (such as permanent port structures) and flexible, mobile applications (like cranes and container handlers).

  • Q: How does the cable help lower maintenance costs in maritime environments?


    A: Its durable construction and resistance to environmental degradation mean fewer replacements and repairs, leading to lower long-term maintenance expenses.

  • Q: What features make the cable suitable for high-speed reeling in busy port operations?


    A: The flat reeling design minimizes bending strain and friction, which is essential for fast-moving operations in dynamic port environments.

  • Q: How does the cable cope with extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, salt spray, and high winds?


    A: Its high-grade materials and robust outer sheath protect against moisture, salt corrosion, and wind-induced stresses, ensuring stable performance regardless of weather conditions.

  • Q: What specific design elements ensure the cable’s reliability in harsh maritime settings?


    A: The combination of tinned copper conductors, advanced EPR insulation, flame-retardant properties, and UV/oil-resistant outer sheath work together to ensure long-term reliability in corrosive and mechanically demanding environments.

  • Q: How does the cable’s design facilitate easier on-site installation in busy port environments?


    A: Its flat, flexible design and reduced bending radius requirements simplify routing and handling, resulting in faster and more efficient installations.

  • Q: How does the cable manage the impact of temperature fluctuations on electrical conductivity?


    A: The high-performance insulation materials maintain stable electrical properties across a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent conductivity even in variable climate conditions.

  • Q: What benefits does the robust outer sheath provide in terms of durability and safety?


    A: The specially compounded polychloroprene (PCP) sheath offers superior protection against physical abrasion, chemical exposure, and environmental degradation, safeguarding the cable's internal components.

  • Q: How does the cable ensure long-term durability under continuous mechanical stress?


    A: With a high permanent tensile strength of 15 N/mm² and a design optimized for frequent bending and dynamic loads, the cable maintains its integrity over an extended service life.

  • Q: How does the cable contribute to improved energy efficiency in port operations?


    A: Its low conductor resistance and efficient current-carrying capacity reduce power losses, resulting in more energy-efficient operations for heavy machinery.

  • Q: Why is the PROTOLON (FL)-LWL (N)TSFLCGEWOEU 3.6/6kV cable considered critical for modern port and shipbuilding projects?


    A: Its advanced integration of power and data transmission, combined with exceptional mechanical and environmental resilience, makes it an indispensable solution for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in challenging maritime and industrial environments.

blue and red cargo ship on dock during daytime
blue and red cargo ship on dock during daytime
white and blue boat on dock during night time
white and blue boat on dock during night time
black metal crane under cloudy sky during daytime
black metal crane under cloudy sky during daytime

PROTOLON (FL)-LWL (N)TSFLCGEWOEU 3.6/6kV Medium Voltage Flat Reeling Cable with Fibre-Optics – Advanced Power & Data Solution for Cranes and Port Operations

Flexible, high-performance cable engineered to withstand dynamic loads and harsh maritime environments, ensuring reliable energy and communication for fast-moving container cranes and heavy material handling equipment

3/5/20258 min read