Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) & Shield Machine Cable – Heavy-Duty PUR Reeling Cable

Engineered for the most demanding tunnel construction and mining environments, our tunnel boring machine (TBM) cable incorporates specially braided aramid fiber fillers to deliver outstanding tensile and torsional resistance. When continuously reeled and unwound on cable drums, the cable effectively absorbs pulling forces and twisting stresses that would otherwise cause conductor breakage or internal structural damage. Compared with conventional reeling cables manufactured using standard materials, this PUR-sheathed design offers a significantly longer service life, together with excellent resistance to abrasion, ageing, flexible bending fatigue, weathering, and oil.

Typical Applications

Suitable for operation in dry, damp, and harsh outdoor conditions, the TBM cable is the trusted power and control solution for:

• Segment handling cranes (segment erectors)

• Winches and hoists

• Gantry cranes

• Tunnel boring machine equipment and transport systems

• Cable reeling drums and systems

• Railway traction motors

• High-mechanical-stress agricultural machinery

• Excavation and drilling equipment

Construction & Technical Specifications

Key Performance Advantages

• High tensile and torsional strength – aramid reinforcement protects the core during continuous reeling

• Exceptional abrasion and oil resistance – PUR outer jacket withstands aggressive site conditions

• Excellent weathering and aging resistance – designed for long-term outdoor and underground use

• Flexible and bending fatigue resistant – reliably follows moving equipment and tight sheave diameters

• Extended service life – proven to outlast standard reeling cables in heavy-duty applications

Need a custom TBM cable for your project? [Contact our engineering team] to discuss your requirements and receive a competitive quotation.

4. FAQ

Q: What exactly is a TBM cable and where is it typically used?
A: A TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) cable, also referred to as a shield machine cable, is a heavy-duty reeling cable specifically designed to supply power and control signals to tunnel boring equipment, segment cranes, gantry cranes, and other mobile machinery operating in challenging construction and mining environments.

Q: How does the aramid fiber reinforcement improve the cable’s performance?
A: The braided aramid fillers absorb the tensile forces generated during reeling and unspooling, while also resisting torsional stress that can cause internal corkscrew deformation. This protection dramatically reduces conductor breakage and insulation damage, extending the cable’s operational life beyond that of conventional reeling cables.

Q: Can this cable be used in wet and outdoor environments?
A: Absolutely. The cable is rated for both dry and damp locations. The PUR outer jacket offers excellent resistance to moisture, UV radiation, oils, and mechanical abrasion, making it a reliable choice for open-air tunnel construction and mining sites.

Q: Is it possible to customize voltage ratings, core counts, or jacket colors?
A: Yes. While the standard rated voltage is 0.6/1 kV, we can manufacture the cable with different voltage grades, custom core configurations, and a wide range of jacket colors beyond grey, black, and orange. Simply share your project specifications, and our team will propose the right solution.

Q: What standards or certifications do these cables comply with?
A: The conductors are designed according to VDE 0295 Class 6. We can also supply cables meeting additional international or regional standards such as IEC, CE, and others upon request. Please contact us to discuss the specific certifications required for your project.