Cable Fixing in South African Vertical Shafts

Vertical shaft cable installation in South Africa requires specialized cables, careful suspension, and secure fixing to withstand mechanical stress and ensure safety.

Cable Selection

In South African mining and industrial environments, PUR-HF lift trailing cables are widely preferred due to their durability under high tensile loads, continuous bending, torsion, vibration, and sudden acceleration or braking. These cables are suitable for deep gold and platinum mines, construction hoists, ports, and quarry lifts, where vertical movement imposes extreme mechanical stress. Compared to ordinary rubber cables, PUR-HF cables offer superior resistance to abrasion, UV exposure, and impact.

Installation Method

Suspension Before Fixing: Cables should be suspended freely in the shaft for at least 12 hours before final fixing to prevent torsion and buckling. The lower end must be kept 0. 3 meters above the pit sole and can be weighted lightly (up to 15% of cable weight) to maintain tension.

Unwinding and Placement: Cables must be unwound tangentially from the drum and led into the shaft following the winding direction to avoid deformation. A second person in the pit can assist in guiding the cable for a smooth, twist-free installation. Fastening: After suspension, cables are marked parallel to the shaft wall and fixed using appropriate fasteners.

In some methods, a steel wire rope is used temporarily to lift and position the cable; once the cable is secured, the rope is detached and removed, improving efficiency and safety.

Support Systems

Vertical cable support can be achieved using cable ladders, perforated trays, wire baskets, channel systems, or trunking, adapted for vertical applications. Accessories such as L-brackets, k-clamps, spring nuts, and bolts allow secure attachment to shaft walls and structural supports. These systems help maintain cable alignment, prevent sagging, and reduce mechanical wear.

Safety Considerations

Avoid placing the cable directly on the pit floor to prevent damage. Ensure torsion-free installation by proper suspension and careful handling. Use weights or loops to control cable tension and prevent uncontrolled movement during installation.

Follow manufacturer guidelines for mechanical and electrical ratings to ensure long-term reliability.

Summary

Successful cable fixing in South African vertical shafts combines high-quality PUR-HF cables, careful suspension, proper unwinding, and secure support systems. Following these practices ensures mechanical integrity, safety, and operational efficiency in demanding mining, construction, and industrial environments.