A comparison of shielded versus non-shielded trailing cables for reeled applications

Differences in cable life, the modes of failure, the ease of repair, and other pertinent comparisons are discussed for shielded versus nonshielded cables for underground mines. It is shown that type G-GC cables are longer-lasting than type SHD cables under severe reeling stresses, due primarily to the low compression resistance but also the low shear resistance of the cotton/copper braid shield. Breakage of individual wires leaves the sharp ends free to penetrate the insulation and initiate cable failure. While there is a good margin of safety built into recommendations, proper tension and the associated sidewall loading ultimately determine cable life for shielded versus unshielded cables for underground mines.<>