SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE 0.6/1KV – Elite Low Voltage Feeder Cable for High-Stress Basket Operations
Optimized for Gravity-Fed Collector Systems and Robust Load-Lifting in Port and Shipyard Environments with Superior EMI Shielding and Exceptional Durability
The Backbone of Modern Port Operations
For maintenance technicians of port crane unloaders, selecting the right cable system isn't just about connectivity—it's about operational reliability in one of the most demanding industrial environments on the planet. The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE 0.6/1KV cable represents the pinnacle of low voltage feeder cable technology, specifically engineered for high-stress basket operations in maritime environments. As ports worldwide face increasing pressure to maximize throughput while minimizing downtime, the importance of robust cable systems cannot be overstated.
This elite cable solution has been developed to withstand the unique challenges faced in gravity-fed collector systems and load-lifting applications, where conventional cables would quickly deteriorate under the constant mechanical stress, exposure to corrosive elements, and extreme operational demands.
Understanding the Operational Environment
Port and shipyard environments present some of the most challenging conditions for electrical components. The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE was designed specifically with these harsh realities in mind:
Constant exposure to salt spray and humidity
Extreme temperature variations
Continuous mechanical stress from movement
Exposure to industrial chemicals and oils
High electromagnetic interference from powerful machinery
Frequent bending and flexing operations
High-speed movement requirements
Maintenance technicians understand that cable failure in these environments doesn't just mean replacing a component—it often translates to costly operational downtime, potential safety hazards, and compromised equipment performance.
Technical Specifications and Compliance Standards
The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE cable is manufactured to meet and exceed the most demanding industry standards:
Regulatory Compliance
VDE Reg. Nr. 7841
Based on DIN VDE 0250-814
DIN VDE 0293-308
DIN VDE 0298-4
Reversed bending compliance with DIN EN 60811-404 / IEC 60811-404
Core Construction
The cable features finely stranded copper conductors (bare, class 5) with EPR rubber core insulation utilizing PROTOLON MS technology and special compound >3GI3. This construction provides exceptional flexibility while maintaining structural integrity under stress.
Cable Organization and Identification
Cores are laid up in a maximum of three layers, with individual screens made of tinned copper braid providing coverage of 60% individually and 80% for TSP configurations. Core identification features light-colored insulation with black numbers for power and control cores, with earth conductors clearly marked in green/yellow for easy identification during installation and maintenance.
Sheathing Materials
Inner sheath: Special EPR rubber compound GM1b
Outer sheath: Chlorinated polyethylene (CM/CPE) using special compound >5GM3
This dual-layer sheathing approach provides exceptional protection against mechanical damage while maintaining the flexibility required for basket operations.
Electrical Performance Parameters
Voltage Ratings
Rated voltage U0/U (Um): 0.6/1 (1.2) kV
Test voltage: 3.5 kV
AC test voltage (control cores): 2.5 kV
Nominal voltage U: 1000 V
Temperature Ratings
Maximum conductor temperature: 90°C
Maximum conductor temperature at short circuit: 250°C
Ambient temperature fixed installation: -50°C to 80°C
Ambient temperature flexible installation: -35°C to 80°C
These temperature ratings ensure reliable operation across the extreme conditions often encountered in port environments, from frigid winter conditions to the heat of summer operations.
Mechanical Durability Features
The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE truly distinguishes itself through its mechanical performance characteristics:
Resistance Properties
Oil resistant: Yes
Ozone resistance: Yes
UV resistant: Yes
These resistance properties are particularly critical in port environments where exposure to hydraulic fluids, diesel fuel, cleaning agents, and continuous UV radiation would quickly degrade standard cables.
Movement Parameters
Torsional stress: ±25°/m
Permanent tensile strength: 15 N/mm²
Travel speed capabilities:
Trolley (festoon system): up to 240 m/min (consultation recommended for speeds beyond this threshold)
Reeling operation: 60 m/min
Bending Specifications
According to VDE 0298-3:
Fixed installation: 4 × D
Flexible operation: 5 × D
Minimum distance with S-type directional changes: 20 × D
These bending parameters are crucial for maintenance technicians to understand when planning installation routes and determining operational parameters for the cable systems.
Application-Specific Advantages for Basket Operations
The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE has been optimized specifically for gravity-fed collector systems commonly used in port crane operations. This specialized design offers several key advantages:
Superior EMI Shielding
In environments filled with powerful motors, drives, and switching equipment, electromagnetic interference (EMI) can compromise signal integrity and create operational issues. The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE's comprehensive shielding approach ensures clean signal transmission even in electrically noisy environments.
Enhanced Mechanical Load Capacity
Basket operations place unique stresses on cables as they move through collection systems. The reinforced construction of the SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE allows it to withstand:
Continuous flexing cycles
High-speed movement
Sudden directional changes
Vertical hanging stress
Impact forces from basket movements
Corrosion Resistance
The specialized outer sheath composition provides exceptional protection against:
Salt spray exposure
Chemical contaminants
Fuel and oil contact
UV degradation
Humidity and moisture ingress
For maintenance technicians, this translates to significantly extended service life and reduced replacement frequency, even in the most challenging port environments.
Configuration Options and Selection Guidelines
The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE is available in a wide range of configurations to meet specific operational requirements. Here's a selection of the most common configurations with their key specifications:
Single Conductor Options
1x25 (5DG6610): 370N max tensile strength, 63mm bending radius, 0.78 Ohm/km resistance, 138A current capacity
1x50 (5DG6612): 750N max tensile strength, 83mm bending radius, 0.386 Ohm/km resistance, 212A current capacity
1x95 (5DG6614): 1420N max tensile strength, 103mm bending radius, 0.206 Ohm/km resistance, 316A current capacity
1x185 (5DG6617): 2770N max tensile strength, 138mm bending radius, 0.106 Ohm/km resistance, 484A current capacity
Multi-Conductor Power Options
3x35+3x16/3 (5DG6631): 1570N max tensile strength, 152mm bending radius, 0.554 Ohm/km resistance, 170A current capacity
3x50+3x25/3 (5DG6632): 2250N max tensile strength, 180mm bending radius, 0.386 Ohm/km resistance, 212A current capacity
3x70+3x35/3 (5DG6633): 3150N max tensile strength, 210mm bending radius, 0.272 Ohm/km resistance, 263A current capacity
Control Cable Options
12x1.5 (5DG6662): 270N max tensile strength, 91mm bending radius, 13.3 Ohm/km resistance, 24A current capacity
18x2.5 (5DG6673): 670N max tensile strength, 118mm bending radius, 7.98 Ohm/km resistance, 32A current capacity
36x1.5 (5DG6666): 810N max tensile strength, 138mm bending radius, 13.3 Ohm/km resistance, 24A current capacity
Screened Pair Options
6x(2x1)C (5DG6694): 180N max tensile strength, 151mm bending radius, 19.5 Ohm/km resistance, 19A current capacity
12x(2x0.5)C (5DG6668): 180N max tensile strength, 164mm bending radius, 39 Ohm/km resistance, 11A current capacity
When selecting the appropriate configuration, maintenance technicians should consider:
1. Current requirements of the connected equipment
2. Control signal needs and potential interference sources
3. Physical space constraints in the basket system
4. Expected mechanical stress based on operational patterns
5. Environmental exposure severity at the specific installation location
Installation Best Practices
To maximize the performance and service life of the SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE cable in basket operations, maintenance technicians should adhere to these installation guidelines:
Pre-Installation Considerations
Verify that ambient temperature during installation is within recommended range
Ensure basket system components are properly aligned and free of sharp edges
Confirm that bending radii at all points will meet minimum specifications
Check that tensile forces during installation will not exceed rated values
Installation Procedure
1. Carefully unroll the cable without twisting or creating kinks
2. Position the cable within the basket system to ensure even distribution of mechanical stress
3. Secure the cable at recommended intervals using appropriate fastening methods
4. Maintain minimum separation distances from other cables, particularly power cables
5. Ensure proper strain relief at termination points
6. Verify that all bending radii exceed the minimum specified values
Post-Installation Verification
Conduct insulation resistance tests before energizing
Verify proper movement through the entire operational range
Check for any points of excessive friction or stress
Confirm proper EMI shielding effectiveness if applicable
Document installation parameters for future reference
Maintenance and Inspection Protocols
Regular inspection and maintenance of the SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE cable system is essential for maximizing service life and preventing unexpected failures:
Routine Visual Inspection
Check for visible damage to the outer sheath
Look for signs of excessive bending or kinking
Inspect for oil or chemical contamination
Verify proper movement through basket system
Check termination points for signs of stress or loosening
Electrical Testing
Periodic insulation resistance testing
Conductor continuity verification
Shield integrity confirmation
Dielectric strength testing (during major maintenance periods)
Mechanical Assessment
Evaluate freedom of movement throughout full range of operation
Check for signs of abrasion at contact points
Verify that bending radii remain within specifications
Assess tension and sag parameters against design specifications
Documentation
Maintain records of all inspections and test results
Document any observed changes or degradation
Track service life against expected performance metrics
Update maintenance schedules based on observed conditions
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the exceptional durability of the SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE cable, maintenance technicians may occasionally encounter issues that require attention:
Symptom: Intermittent Signal Loss
Potential causes:
Connector degradation
Shield damage
Excessive EMI in the environment
Internal conductor damage
Diagnostic approach:
Shield continuity testing
Visual inspection at flex points
Signal quality monitoring during operation
Connector inspection and cleaning
Symptom: Visible Sheath Damage
Potential causes:
Basket system misalignment
Contact with sharp edges
UV degradation
Chemical exposure
Remediation:
Repair minor damage with appropriate materials
Adjust basket system to eliminate contact points
Evaluate need for replacement based on damage severity
Address source of chemical contamination
Symptom: Reduced Flexibility
Potential causes:
Age-related material changes
Excessive heat exposure
Oil contamination affecting material properties
Internal structural changes
Assessment approach:
Compare to installation specifications
Evaluate operational impact
Consider replacement if operational parameters are compromised
Comparative Advantages Over Standard Festoon Cables
The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE offers significant advantages over conventional festoon cables when used in demanding basket operations:
Extended service life in high-stress environments
Superior resistance to mechanical fatigue
Enhanced chemical and environmental resistance
Better performance at temperature extremes
Improved EMI shielding capabilities
Higher tensile strength ratings
Greater flexibility at higher speeds
More reliable performance in corrosive environments
These advantages translate directly to reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs, and improved operational reliability—key considerations for port maintenance teams working to maximize equipment availability.
Conclusion: Ensuring Operational Excellence
The SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE Festoon Cable represents a critical component in the operational reliability of port crane systems. By providing exceptional mechanical durability, superior electrical performance, and resistance to harsh environmental conditions, this specialized cable enables maintenance technicians to maximize uptime and minimize unexpected failures.
For port operations where every minute of downtime translates to significant operational costs, investing in premium cable solutions like the SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE delivers measurable returns through extended service life and reduced maintenance requirements. Maintenance technicians who understand the unique capabilities and installation requirements of this cable system are better positioned to ensure the reliable operation of critical port infrastructure.
As global shipping demands continue to increase and port operations face growing pressure to maximize efficiency, the role of high-performance components like the SPREADERFLEX BSKT XPRT 3GSLTOE becomes increasingly significant in maintaining competitive operations.
References
1. VDE Standards Association. (2022). VDE 0298-3: Application of cables and insulated conductors in power installations.
2. Prysmian Group. (2023). Low Voltage Cables for Basket Operation. Retrieved from https://www.prysmian.com/sites/default/files/business_markets/markets/downloads/datasheets/Spreader.pdf
3. Klaus Faber AG. (2023). Spreaderflex® 3GSLTOE for basket application. Retrieved from https://shop.faberkabel.de/en/Flexible-wires/Rubber-insulated-cables/Spreaderflex-3GSLTOE-for-basket-application/
4. Tullyn Trading. (2023). 3GSLTOE Flexible Spreader Cable 0.6/1kv. Retrieved from https://www.tullyn.com/product/3gsltoe-flexible-spreader-cable-1kv/
5. International Electrotechnical Commission. (2021). IEC 60811-404: Electric and optical fibre cables - Test methods for non-metallic materials.
6. DIN Standards Committee. (2022). DIN VDE 0293-308: Identification of cores in cables and flexible cords.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the primary function of the RONDOFLEX (C)-FC (N)GRDGCGOEU-J cable?
A: It is designed to supply stable low voltage power and minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) in festoon systems used on gantry cranes and other material handling equipment.
Q: For which applications is this festoon cable ideal?
A: It is ideal for gantry cranes, hall cranes, rack material handling equipment, transportation systems, and machine tools where frequent bending and high mechanical stresses occur.
Q: What is the voltage rating of this cable?
A: The cable is rated at 0.6/1 kV (with a maximum of 1.2 kV), making it suitable for low voltage applications.
Q: What type of conductor is used in this cable?
A: It utilizes extremely finely stranded, bare copper (Class 5) for the main power cores and extremely finely stranded, tinned copper (Class FS) for enhanced conductivity and reduced resistance.
Q: What material is used for the core insulation?
A: The core insulation is made from EPR rubber with a special compound (>3GI3), providing excellent dielectric strength and longevity.
Q: How are the cores arranged within the cable?
A: The cable is designed with a 4-core or 3-core configuration, depending on the conductor size, with the earth conductor incorporated via a split design in larger cross-sections to ensure balanced power distribution.
Q: What is the purpose of the control cores in this cable?
A: Control cores are integrated to support data transmission and reduce EMI, which is critical in environments where power cables might interfere with sensitive data lines.
Q: How is the cable’s screening implemented?
A: An individual screen made of tinned copper braid covers the cable, with a coverage exceeding 80% overall, ensuring low transfer impedance (<100 mΩ/m at ≤30 MHz) and reducing interference.
Q: What is the core identification system?
A: The cores have light-colored insulation with black printed numbers for easy identification, while the earth conductor is marked in green/yellow.
Q: What material forms the inner sheath of the cable?
A: The inner sheath is made from a special EPR compound (GM1b), offering robust waterproofing and protection to the core assembly.
Q: What is the outer sheath material?
A: The outer sheath is constructed from chlorinated polyethylene (CM/CPE) with a special compound (>5GM3), providing excellent resistance to oil, UV, ozone, and corrosive chemicals.
Q: Is this cable flame retardant?
A: Yes, it meets DIN EN 60332-1-2 standards, ensuring high flame retardancy and safety in critical installations.
Q: How does the cable perform in high mechanical stress conditions?
A: Its design supports repeated bending, roller and reversed bending, and torsional stress, making it highly durable in environments where frequent mechanical movement occurs.
Q: What is the maximum torsional stress this cable can withstand?
A: It can endure torsional stresses up to ±50° per meter, which is crucial for festoon systems on moving cranes.
Q: What are the thermal performance characteristics of this cable?
A: It operates continuously at conductor temperatures up to 90°C and can withstand short-circuit temperatures up to 250°C.
Q: What is the ambient temperature range for fixed installations?
A: The cable can operate in fixed installations between -50°C and +80°C.
Q: What is the ambient temperature range for flexible installations?
A: For flexible use, it operates effectively from -40°C to +80°C.
Q: What is the test voltage for this cable?
A: The cable is tested at 5 kV, ensuring robust insulation and safety margins.
Q: How does the cable’s design minimize EMI?
A: Its symmetrical construction and high-quality screening significantly reduce electromagnetic interference, which is essential in port and shipbuilding applications where power and data cables coexist.
Q: What is the rated nominal voltage in volts?
A: The nominal voltage is 1000V, ensuring compatibility with typical low voltage systems.
Q: What are the recommended bending radii for installation?
A: According to VDE 0298-3, the minimum bending radius is 4×D for fixed installations, 5×D for flexible installations, and 20×D for S-type directional changes (where D is the cable’s diameter).
Q: How does the cable ensure low electrical losses?
A: Its use of extremely finely stranded conductors minimizes resistance, thereby reducing energy loss and improving efficiency.
Q: What are the cable's mechanical strength properties?
A: The cable provides a permanent tensile strength that is increased through additional support elements, ensuring robust performance even under heavy load.
Q: What is the maximum travel speed for the festoon system?
A: It supports trolley travel speeds up to 240 m/min; however, actual performance may depend on factors such as cable weight and loop length.
Q: How does the cable handle repeated bending in festoon applications?
A: Its flexible design and high-quality insulation ensure that it can endure continuous bending cycles without degradation.
Q: Is the cable suitable for use as a flexible motor power supply?
A: Yes, it is designed to function efficiently as a flexible motor power supply cable, particularly in high-stress industrial environments.
Q: How does the cable perform in harsh maritime environments?
A: The CM/CPE outer sheath provides excellent resistance to seawater, oil, UV radiation, and ozone, making it highly suitable for port and shipyard operations.
Q: What standards does this cable comply with?
A: It adheres to standards such as DIN VDE 0250-814, DIN VDE 0298-4, DIN EN 60811-404/IEC 60811-404, VDE Reg. Nr. 7841, and DIN EN 60332-1-2.
Q: How does the cable’s screening improve overall performance?
A: The copper braid screening (with over 80% coverage) provides excellent EMC performance, ensuring that the cable does not interfere with adjacent data cables.
Q: How does the cable facilitate easy core identification?
A: The cores are finished with light-colored insulation and marked with black printed numbers, while the earth conductor is green/yellow, ensuring quick and accurate identification during installation.
Q: What maintenance practices are recommended for this cable?
A: Regular visual inspections, adherence to bending radius guidelines, and periodic electrical testing are recommended to ensure continued performance.
Q: How does the cable contribute to overall energy efficiency?
A: With low resistance and optimized construction, the cable minimizes power loss, enhancing energy efficiency in festoon systems.
Q: Can this cable be easily integrated into existing port and shipyard systems?
A: Yes, its modular design and compliance with international standards ensure seamless integration with modern crane and material handling systems.
Q: How does the cable manage data transmission when integrated with fiber-optic elements?
A: When equipped with the optional fiber-optic channels, the cable supports high-speed, low-attenuation data transmission, enabling real-time monitoring and control.
Q: Why should professionals in the port and shipbuilding industries choose the SPREADERFLEX REEL XPRT (N)SHTOEU cable?
A: Its exceptional mechanical durability, superior environmental resistance, low EMI, and efficient power delivery make it the ideal choice for demanding festoon applications in harbor cranes, shipyards, and other critical material handling systems.
RONDOFLEX (C)-FC (N)GRDGCGOEU-J 0.6/1KV – High-Performance Low Voltage Festoon Cable for Precision Industrial Applications
Designed for Ultra-Low EMI, Superior Flexibility, and Robust Durability in Critical Crane and Material Handling Systems
3/5/202511 min read