Metallurgy Industry

In the metallurgical industry, special cables designed for high temperatures are used. While standard cables typically operate at temperatures ranging from −30°C to +70°C, the conditions in metallurgy are much more extreme: near furnaces and rolling mills, the temperature can reach +1000°C, and constant fluctuations during equipment shutdowns and startups create additional stress. The cables are also exposed to sparks and splashes of molten metal, chemically aggressive environments (gases, oils, acids), vibrations, and mechanical damage.

Types of cables for metallurgy:

  • Cables with silicone-based insulation (up to +180°C)
    They are made of silicone rubber, retain flexibility even under prolonged heating, are resistant to UV radiation and ozone, and do not support combustion. They are used for electrical wiring in workshops with moderate heating, for connecting ventilation system motors and lighting. They are marked as RKGM or SiHF.
  • Cables with fluoroplastic insulation (up to +250°C)
    Made of PTFE (Teflon), they have high chemical resistance, do not melt or burn, and produce minimal smoke. Used in conditions of high chemical load. Designated as MCASH or FEP.
  • Mineral-insulated cables (up to +1000°C)
    The design includes copper conductors surrounded by dense oxide insulation (MgO) and a copper or stainless steel sheath. The cables can withstand direct contact with flame and do not release toxic substances. They are used near blast furnaces, in emergency power supply systems, and in areas with increased explosion hazard.

Furthermore, the metallurgical industry uses specialized power and control cables for lifting and transport equipment, including: drum cables, cables with a load‑bearing core, cables for suspended control panels, flat cables, and other types.

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Basic requirements:

When selecting a cable for metallurgical enterprises, it is important to take into account not only the standard technical specifications but also the specific conditions of the particular production process.

Key factors:

  • Temperature conditions — the cable must have insulation capable of withstanding the specified temperature fluctuations.
  • Humidity — high humidity combined with aggressive chemicals can cause corrosion of conductors and damage to insulation. In such conditions, it is recommended to use cables with a moisture‑resistant sheath and chemical resistance.
  • Exposure to chemicals — the cable must have chemical resistance. Suitable sheath materials are polyurethane or fluoropolymer. It is important to take into account the concentration and composition of chemicals to select the optimal material.
    In addition, the cables must comply with international standards (for example, ISO/IEC 11801) and the requirements of the industrial protocols in use.

Cable selection rules

For operation in high‑temperature conditions, it is necessary to:

  • Determine the maximum operating temperature of the cable, allowing for a safety margin of approximately +20%.
  • Take into account the presence of chemical fumes, mechanical loads, and vibrations.

Recommendations for cable types:

  • Up to 180°C — silicone cables.
  • Up to 250°C — fluoroplastic cables.
  • Extreme conditions (furnaces, emergency systems) — mineral‑insulated cables.

To improve reliability in extreme conditions, the following are used:

  • Heat‑resistant cable channels, including stainless steel metal conduit and ceramic tubes for particularly hot areas.
  • Trays with forced cooling.
  • Active monitoring systems: temperature sensors at critical points, thermographic monitoring of distribution boards, and automatic shutdown systems in case of overheating.