An electrical cable and pilot core

Abstract

This invention provides an electrical cable 10 which includes a pilot core 20 incorporated into said cable 10. The pilot core 20 comprises a metallic conductor 22 surrounded by a multi-layer insulation sheath 26, which features an inner insulation layer 28 of cross-linked linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and an outer insulation layer 30 of ethylene propylene monomer (EPM) rubber. The conductor 22 is further reinforced with an integrated aramid yarn 24. The invention solves the technical problem of providing a pilot core 20 and cable 10 that is both mechanically robust and compatible with high-temperature manufacturing processes. The cross-linked LLDPE inner layer 28 provides high tensile strength while also withstanding vulcanization temperatures of around 200°C, overcoming the prior art drawbacks where pilot cores were either mechanically weak or would melt during manufacturing. This results in a durable cable 10 and pilot core 20 which extends the operational lifespan of reeling cables in harsh environments, such as mining.