Case Analysis of Cable Conveyors in the Power Engineering Field

2025-10-25 21:52:16

1. Background and Challenges

In power engineering, cable laying is a critical process, especially for large-section cables, multi-layer cable trays, or complex terrains (e.g., cable trenches, submarine, bridges). Traditional manual traction methods face challenges such as low efficiency, high labor intensity, and high risk of cable damage. For example:

• Daqing Oilfield Thermal Power Plant Project: During winter construction, the high installation height of multi-layer cable trays and the complex layout of cable trenches made manual laying of large-section cables prone to personnel injuries and cable core damage.

• Ansteel Bayuquan Project: The long-distance laying of large-section cables (diameter 30–180mm) required significant manpower, with risks of schedule delays.

2. Cable conveyor Solutions

By introducing mechanized traction and multi-point collaborative operations, cable conveyors significantly improve laying efficiency and quality. Specific applications include:

1. Large-Section Cable Laying

• Technical Principle: Utilize rubber caterpillar tracks (low friction, high traction) with multi-point layout (one conveyor every 40 meters in straight sections, plus vertical pulleys at turns) to ensure uniform force distribution, preventing cable distortion or damage.

• Case Outcome: In the Daqing Oilfield project, conveyors replaced manual labor, reducing construction personnel by 50%, shortening the schedule by 35%, and achieving near-zero cable damage rates.

2. Complex Terrain and Multi-Layer Cable Tray Laying

• Technological Upgrade: Combine with pulley systems and smart controls (e.g., IoT remote monitoring) to adapt to bends, slopes, and other challenging terrains. For instance, in submarine cable laying, conveyors work with winches to ensure stability in extreme environments.

• Innovative Design: Equipment like the Tank900 conveyor features a "caterpillar chassis + cable pusher," enabling self-powered transportation and eliminating the need for manual handling.

3. Efficiency and Safety Enhancements

• Efficiency Comparison: In the Ansteel project, mechanized laying improved efficiency by 55% and reduced labor costs by 75%.

• Safety Features: Low-speed modes (8kN traction) and variable-speed controls (e.g., Conveyor900 with 4-speed + stepless adjustment) prevent overloading and cable damage.

3. Future Development Trends

1. Smart and Automated: Integration of IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of tension, speed, and fault prediction.

2. Lightweight and Durable: Use of high-strength alloys and advanced rubber materials (e.g., heat-resistant, moisture-proof) to expand application scenarios.

3. Modular Design: Compact and disassemblable structures for rapid deployment in confined spaces (e.g., tunnels, substations).

4. Conclusion

Cable conveyors have revolutionized cable laying in power engineering, addressing the core challenges of traditional methods. Their applications now extend beyond traditional infrastructure to high-demand scenarios like submarine cables and industrial plants. With ongoing advancements in smart technology and lightweight materials, these devices will further enhance the standardization and efficiency of power construction.