• Kabelschlepp India Private Limited

Cable Carrier Chain for ATEX Applications

Kabelschlepp has introduced a special Cable Carrier Chain for ATEX applications in response to the requirement for a cable and hose management solution for an automated drill rod handling system on a deep drilling rig. The new generation of deep drilling rigs TBA 200 and 300 have been developed focusing on oil and gas drilling, but also for future geothermal technology. For the latter, a load of 300t can be lowered to depths of 5,000m (16,000ft). For comparison, the average depth of the North Sea is 93m and 725m at its deepest. A fully automated manipulator feeds rods straight from (horizontal) storage into the drilling axis and the drive. As a result, manpower is limited to supervision. Work hazards are eliminated, and the difficult and dangerous work of derrick men above the top drive is no longer required. The required electric and hydraulic feeds on the mast of TBA 300 are managed by a vertically fitted MC 1300 type Kabelschlepp drag chain. The previous solution of grouping hose and cable in festoon bags needed replacement to fast movements in operation, and the variety of lines to be handled. The MC 1300 chain was chosen as the inner height of 87 mm and the bespoke compartment width of 650 mm. The multi-variable chain is designed for tough conditions on construction sites. A rigid link design makes it extremely robust, and it is equipped with an enclosed and dirt-resistant stop system. This stability achieved by the combination of GRP side band and aluminium cross stays, also offering good conductivity to avoid excessive static charge. The ATEX directive stipulates that all components must have controlled discharge properties. To follow the directive, and essential for ATEX applications, the chain band is made of a special, conductive material.