Zihao.Yang@feichuncables.com

RONDOFLEX CHAIN Type (N)GRDG(CG)OEU: Advanced Low Voltage Cable for Energy Chains

Discover Feichun Cable's industrial-grade RONDOFLEX CHAIN Type (N)GRDG(CG)OEU low voltage solution engineered for demanding applications in cranes and material handling systems under extreme conditions.

RONDOFLEX CHAIN Type (N)GRDG(CG)OEU: Advanced Low Voltage Cable for Energy Chains

Introduction

In the demanding world of industrial and maritime operations, power transmission reliability isn't just desirable—it's mission-critical. When machinery operates continuously under extreme mechanical stress, standard cabling solutions often fall short, resulting in costly downtime and maintenance challenges. This is particularly true in environments where energy chains undergo constant movement, such as port terminals, shipyards, and heavy industrial settings.

Feichun Cable's RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU 0.6/1KV Low Voltage Cable represents a significant advancement in power transmission technology specifically engineered for these challenging scenarios. Designed with exceptional mechanical durability and electrical performance, this specialized cable addresses the unique demands of energy chain systems in container cranes, stacking cranes, indoor cranes, and various material handling equipment.

This article explores how the RONDOFLEX CHAIN cable's innovative design features make it an ideal solution for applications requiring reliable performance under long travel distances, high travel speeds, and severe mechanical stress—ultimately providing operators with improved efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and extended service life.

Understanding Energy Chain Applications and Challenges

What Are Energy Chains?

Energy chains (also known as cable carriers or drag chains) are protective systems designed to guide and protect cables and hoses in dynamic applications where continuous movement occurs. These chain systems are crucial components in various industrial machinery, particularly in equipment that requires linear or rotational movement while maintaining power and data connections.

Critical Challenges in Energy Chain Applications

Energy chain applications present unique challenges for cable systems:

  • Continuous flexing and bending stress

  • Abrasion against chain components and other cables

  • Variable environmental conditions (temperature extremes, moisture, UV exposure)

  • Exposure to oils, chemicals, and other contaminants

  • Electromagnetic interference in complex control systems

  • High-speed operation causing increased mechanical wear

  • Long travel distances requiring consistent performance over extended lengths

These challenges are particularly pronounced in port operations, where container cranes and stacking cranes operate continuously in harsh maritime environments, and in manufacturing settings where material handling equipment must function reliably despite constant movement.

RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU: Technical Overview

The RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU 0.6/1KV is a specialized low voltage power cable meticulously engineered to address the challenges of energy chain applications. Its designation breaks down as follows:

  • (N): Indicates compliance with national standards

  • GRDG: Rubber-insulated cable with special screening for electromagnetic compatibility

  • (CG): Indicates copper braiding for enhanced shielding

  • OEU: Designates oil-resistant, EMC-compatible, and environmentally resilient properties

Key Technical Specifications

  • Rated Voltage: 0.6/1 (1.2) kV

  • Test Voltage: 3.5 kV

  • Maximum Conductor Temperature: 90°C normal operation, 250°C short circuit

  • Ambient Temperature Range:

  • Fixed Installation: -50°C to +80°C

  • Flexible Installation: -35°C to +80°C

  • Travel Speed: Up to 240 m/min in chain systems

  • Bending Radius (according to VDE 0298-3):

  • 4 × Cable Diameter for fixed installation

  • 5 × Cable Diameter for flexible operation

  • Permanent Tensile Strength: 15 N/mm²

Advanced Design Features and Construction

The exceptional performance of the RONDOFLEX CHAIN cable stems from its sophisticated multi-layer construction, each element carefully engineered to enhance overall durability and functionality.

1. Conductor Technology

At the core of the RONDOFLEX CHAIN cable lies its advanced conductor technology:

  • Material: Extremely finely stranded bare copper (Class 5)

  • PE Conductor: Extremely finely stranded tinned copper (Class FS)

  • Benefits: The fine stranding provides superior flexibility and fatigue resistance while maintaining excellent electrical conductivity. This construction is fundamental to the cable's ability to withstand millions of bending cycles without conductor breakage.

2. Core Insulation System

The insulation system represents a critical component in the cable's overall performance:

  • Material: EPR (Ethylene Propylene Rubber) with special compound >3GI3

  • Brand Technology: PROTOLON MS

  • Core Identification: Light-colored insulation with black numbers for power and control cores, green/yellow for earth conductors

  • Benefits: This specialized rubber compound provides exceptional dielectric properties combined with mechanical resilience, allowing the insulation to maintain integrity despite repeated flexing and environmental stresses.

3. Optimized Core Arrangement

The cable's core arrangement is strategically designed to maximize performance and durability:

  • Up to 10mm²: 4-core design

  • From 16mm² upward: Three main conductors with earth conductor split into three parts and placed in the interstices

  • Benefits: This innovative arrangement distributes mechanical stress evenly throughout the cable cross-section, preventing localized stress points and ensuring uniform bending characteristics. The strategic positioning of earth conductors in larger sizes optimizes space utilization while maintaining electrical performance.

4. Inner Sheath Construction

  • Material: Special EPR compound GM1b

  • Benefits: This rubber-based inner sheath provides a stable foundation for the screening layer while adding an additional barrier against mechanical damage and environmental factors.

5. EMI Shielding System

  • Construction: Braided screening

  • Material: Tinned copper with >80% overall coverage

  • Performance: Transfer impedance <100mΩ/m at ≤30MHz

  • Benefits: The high-coverage copper braiding provides excellent electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection, crucial in environments with complex control systems and numerous potential interference sources. The tinning process enhances corrosion resistance in humid or maritime environments.

6. Outer Sheath Technology

  • Material: EVA rubber with special compound >5GM3

  • Properties: Oil-resistant, ozone-resistant, UV-resistant

  • Benefits: This advanced outer sheath formulation creates a robust barrier against environmental challenges while maintaining flexibility. The specialized compound resists degradation from UV exposure, oils, and other industrial contaminants commonly encountered in port and industrial settings.

Performance Advantages in Demanding Applications

Mechanical Resilience

The RONDOFLEX CHAIN cable demonstrates exceptional mechanical performance characteristics that make it ideally suited for energy chain applications:

  • Flexing Endurance: Engineered to withstand millions of bending cycles without performance degradation

  • Abrasion Resistance: The specialized outer sheath maintains integrity despite continuous contact with chain components

  • Tensile Strength: With a permanent tensile strength of 15 N/mm², the cable can handle the pulling forces encountered during high-speed operation

  • Impact Resistance: The multi-layer construction provides excellent protection against external mechanical impacts

Electrical Performance

Beyond mechanical durability, the cable delivers superior electrical characteristics:

  • Consistent Conductivity: The finely stranded copper conductors maintain reliable electrical performance despite continuous movement

  • EMC Compatibility: The high-coverage copper braiding minimizes electromagnetic interference, protecting sensitive control systems

  • Voltage Stability: The specialized EPR insulation ensures stable electrical properties across the full temperature range

  • Low Resistance: Optimized conductor design minimizes power losses and heat generation during operation

Environmental Resilience

The RONDOFLEX CHAIN cable is designed to perform reliably in challenging environmental conditions:

  • Temperature Extremes: Functional from -50°C to +80°C, accommodating both arctic and tropical deployment scenarios

  • Chemical Resistance: The specialized outer sheath resists degradation from exposure to oils, fuels, and industrial chemicals

  • UV and Ozone Protection: Enhanced resistance to solar radiation and atmospheric ozone ensures long-term performance in outdoor installations

  • Maritime Compatibility: Designed to withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater and high humidity in port environments

Application Scenarios and Industry Solutions

Port and Maritime Operations

The RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU cable excels in port and maritime applications:

  • Container Cranes: Provides reliable power transmission in ship-to-shore (STS) cranes where cables must traverse long distances at variable speeds

  • Stacking Cranes: Ensures consistent operation in rubber-tired gantry (RTG) and rail-mounted gantry (RMG) cranes in container yards

  • Shipyard Equipment: Delivers dependable performance in shipbuilding machinery operating in corrosive maritime environments

  • Offshore Platforms: Supports critical power systems in offshore operations where reliability and environmental resistance are paramount

Industrial Material Handling

In manufacturing and logistics settings, the cable provides significant advantages:

  • Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): Ensures reliable operation in high-bay warehousing systems with extensive vertical travel

  • Overhead Cranes: Delivers consistent performance in factory overhead cranes subject to continuous operation

  • Conveyor Systems: Supports power requirements in complex conveyor networks with multiple movement planes

  • Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): Provides reliable power transmission in mobile equipment charging and docking stations

Specialized Applications

The cable's unique properties make it suitable for specialized deployment scenarios:

  • Mining Equipment: Withstands harsh conditions in above-ground mining operations

  • Waste Processing Facilities: Resists degradation in challenging waste management environments

  • Steel Mills: Performs reliably despite exposure to heat, dust, and mechanical stress

  • Paper Mills: Maintains integrity despite exposure to moisture and chemicals in paper production facilities

Compliance and Certification

The RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU cable meets or exceeds numerous international standards, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices:

  • DIN VDE 0298-4: Standards for use and handling of cables

  • DIN VDE 0250-814: Specific requirements for rubber-insulated power cables

  • DIN EN 60811-404 / IEC 60811-404: Test methods for insulating and sheathing materials

This comprehensive certification profile ensures that the cable can be deployed with confidence in regulated environments where compliance documentation is required.

Installation and Operational Considerations

Optimal Installation Practices

To maximize the performance and service life of RONDOFLEX CHAIN cables, certain installation best practices should be observed:

  • Proper Bending Radius: Maintain minimum bending radii of 4× cable diameter for fixed installations and 5× cable diameter for flexible applications

  • Chain Configuration: Ensure energy chains are properly dimensioned to accommodate the cable without compression or excessive tension

  • Cable Arrangement: Position cables within energy chains to minimize crossing and potential abrasion points

  • Strain Relief: Implement appropriate strain relief at fixed points to prevent tension transfer to conductor connections

  • Environmental Protection: Utilize additional protection measures in extremely corrosive environments

Operational Recommendations

For optimal long-term performance:

  • Speed Considerations: While rated for up to 240 m/min, operating at reduced speeds in very long chain systems is recommended to extend service life

  • Inspection Schedule: Implement regular visual inspections of accessible cable sections for early identification of any sheath damage

  • Temperature Monitoring: In applications approaching thermal limits, consider implementing temperature monitoring systems

  • Maintenance Planning: Include cable inspection as part of scheduled maintenance routines for energy chain systems

Cost-Benefit Analysis

While specialized cables like the RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU typically represent a higher initial investment compared to standard cables, the total cost of ownership calculation strongly favors this advanced solution:

Direct Cost Benefits

  • Extended Service Life: Significantly longer operational life before replacement becomes necessary

  • Reduced Downtime: Fewer cable failures translate directly to improved operational availability

  • Lower Maintenance Costs: Reduced need for emergency repairs and unscheduled maintenance interventions

  • Energy Efficiency: Optimized conductor design minimizes power losses and associated operational costs

Indirect Cost Benefits

  • Improved Safety: Reduced risk of electrical failures that could create safety hazards

  • Enhanced Productivity: More reliable equipment operation leads to improved throughput and efficiency

  • Reputation Protection: Fewer service interruptions help maintain customer satisfaction and contractual compliance

  • Simplified Inventory: Longer service life reduces the need for extensive spare parts inventories

Conclusion

The RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU 0.6/1KV Low Voltage Cable represents a significant advancement in power transmission technology for demanding energy chain applications. Its sophisticated construction—combining extremely finely stranded conductors, specialized EPR insulation, optimized core arrangement, comprehensive EMI shielding, and a highly resistant outer sheath—delivers exceptional performance under conditions that would quickly compromise conventional cables.

For operators of container cranes, stacking cranes, industrial material handling equipment, and other systems utilizing energy chains, this specialized cable offers a compelling value proposition: enhanced reliability, extended service life, reduced maintenance requirements, and improved operational efficiency. In environments where downtime carries significant financial implications, the investment in superior cable technology provides substantial returns through improved system availability and reduced total cost of ownership.

As industrial and maritime operations continue to demand higher speeds, longer travel distances, and increased reliability from their equipment, the RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU cable stands as an engineered solution specifically designed to meet these evolving challenges—ensuring that power transmission remains reliable even under the most demanding conditions.

References

1. Feichun RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU 0.6/1KV Low Voltage Cables specification sheet

2. DIN VDE 0298-4 Standard for use and handling of cables

3. DIN VDE 0250-814 Requirements for rubber-insulated power cables

4. DIN EN 60811-404 / IEC 60811-404 Test methods for insulating and sheathing materials

5. Huadong Rubber Cable Technical Documentation for RONDOFLEX(CHAIN) (N)GRDGOEU/(N)GRDGCGOEU Cable

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Q: What is the primary application of this chain cable?
    A: It is designed to provide reliable low voltage power for energy chains in various crane systems, ensuring stable performance in port, shipbuilding, and material handling applications.

  • Q: What voltage rating does the cable have?
    A: The cable is rated at 0.6/1 kV (up to 1.2 kV maximum), making it suitable for low voltage applications in industrial settings.

  • Q: What type of conductors are used in this cable?
    A: It utilizes extremely finely stranded, bare copper (Class 5) conductors, ensuring minimal electrical resistance and high conductivity.

  • Q: What is the core insulation material?
    A: The core insulation is made of EPR rubber with a special compound (>3GI3), offering excellent dielectric strength and durability.

  • Q: How are the conductors arranged in the cable?
    A: For conductors up to 25 mm², a 4-core design is used; for larger sizes, a three-main conductor configuration with the earth conductor split into three parts is employed to ensure uniform current distribution.

  • Q: How is core identification achieved?
    A: Cores are marked with light-colored insulation with black printed numbers for power and control cores, while the earth conductor is distinguished by green/yellow coloring.

  • Q: What material forms the outer sheath of the cable?
    A: The outer sheath is made of chlorinated polyethylene (CM/CPE) with a special compound (>5GM3), providing superior chemical and environmental resistance.

  • Q: Is the cable flame retardant?
    A: Yes, it is flame retardant in accordance with EN/IEC 60332-1-2, ensuring safe operation in high-risk environments.

  • Q: What standards does the cable comply with?
    A: It meets standards such as DIN VDE 0250-814, DIN VDE 0298-4, and DIN EN 60811-404/IEC 60811-404, ensuring high quality and safety.

  • Q: How does the cable perform under high mechanical stress?
    A: It is engineered to withstand extreme mechanical loads and frequent bending, ensuring long-term durability in dynamic chain systems.

  • Q: How does the cable resist abrasion in harsh environments?
    A: The robust CM/CPE outer sheath provides excellent abrasion resistance, critical for use in port operations where physical wear is a concern.

  • Q: Can this cable be used in outdoor installations?
    A: Yes, its design offers excellent resistance to UV radiation, ozone, and seawater, making it ideal for harbor and shipbuilding environments.

  • Q: What is the operating ambient temperature range for fixed installations?
    A: It operates effectively from -50°C to +80°C in fixed installations.

  • Q: What is the ambient temperature range for flexible installations?
    A: For flexible applications, the operating range is from -40°C to +80°C.

  • Q: What is the maximum continuous conductor temperature?
    A: The cable is designed to operate continuously at up to 90°C.

  • Q: How high can the cable's conductors reach in short-circuit conditions?
    A: The conductors can withstand short-circuit temperatures up to 250°C.

  • Q: What is the torsional stress capacity of the cable?
    A: It is designed to handle torsional stresses of ±25° per meter, which is essential for dynamic chain movements.

  • Q: What is the permanent tensile strength of the cable?
    A: The cable offers a permanent tensile strength of 15 N/mm², ensuring robust performance under continuous load.

  • Q: What are the recommended travel speeds for chain systems using this cable?
    A: The cable supports travel speeds up to 240 m/min; however, for longer chain systems, operating at lower speeds is recommended.

  • Q: How does the cable ensure low electrical losses?
    A: Its finely stranded copper conductors minimize resistance, resulting in minimal energy loss and enhanced overall efficiency.

  • Q: How does the cable maintain low electromagnetic interference (EMI)?
    A: The cable employs an individual screen made of tinned copper braid (coverage >80%) to significantly reduce EMI, ensuring stable operation in data-sensitive environments.

  • Q: Is the cable designed to be halogen-free?
    A: Yes, the cable is halogen-free, which is important for minimizing toxic emissions during fires.

  • Q: How does the cable handle reversed bending?
    A: It is specifically engineered to endure reversed bending, maintaining insulation integrity even under challenging movement conditions.

  • Q: How does the cable perform during roller bending?
    A: Its construction is optimized for roller bending, ensuring long-term durability in festoon and chain applications.

  • Q: What are the cable's dimensions in terms of cable and conductor sizes?
    A: Depending on the configuration, cable diameters range from approximately 7.6 mm to 32.9 mm, with conductor sizes varying from 5.7 mm to 22.5 mm, ensuring suitability for diverse load requirements.

  • Q: How does the cable contribute to system reliability in port operations?
    A: Its robust design, superior environmental resistance, and low EMI ensure reliable power and control signal transmission, reducing downtime in critical operations.

  • Q: What is the impact of cable weight on system performance?
    A: The cable’s optimized weight per kilometer ensures that it does not overly burden the chain system, maintaining efficient operation even over long travel distances.

  • Q: How does the cable's design enhance energy efficiency?
    A: The use of extremely finely stranded conductors minimizes energy loss, contributing to overall system efficiency.

  • Q: Can this cable be integrated with modern control systems?
    A: Yes, its integrated control cores and low EMI screening allow seamless integration with automated control systems used in port and shipyard environments.

  • Q: What installation practices are recommended for this cable?
    A: It is essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines, maintain the recommended bending radius (6×D), and ensure proper tension control to prevent damage.

  • Q: How often should the cable be inspected for maintenance?
    A: Regular visual inspections and periodic electrical testing are recommended, particularly in high-stress environments, to ensure ongoing performance.

  • Q: How does the cable handle abrasion and impact in dynamic environments?
    A: Its CM/CPE outer sheath offers excellent resistance to abrasion and impact, critical for use in harsh maritime and industrial settings.

  • Q: Is the cable suitable for use in shipbuilding and harbor applications?
    A: Absolutely; its robust construction and environmental resistance make it an ideal choice for shipyards, port terminals, and other maritime installations.

  • Q: How does the cable minimize downtime in critical applications?
    A: Its high mechanical durability and low-maintenance design ensure continuous operation, reducing the frequency of repairs and maintenance interruptions.

  • Q: Why should port, shipbuilding, and material handling professionals choose the RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU cable?
    A: Its combination of robust electrical performance, exceptional mechanical durability, low EMI, and superior environmental resistance makes it the optimal solution for ensuring reliable and efficient operation in high-demand chain systems.

a large boat in a body of water
a large boat in a body of water
brown and white boat on body of water during daytime
brown and white boat on body of water during daytime

RONDOFLEX CHAIN Type (N)GRDG(CG)OEU: Advanced Low Voltage Cable for Energy Chains

Discover Feichun Cable's industrial-grade RONDOFLEX CHAIN (N)GRDG(CG)OEU low voltage solution engineered for demanding applications in cranes and material handling systems under extreme conditions.

3/5/202511 min read