API Standard MLE

API Standard MLE is a specialized flat armored cable designed for onshore oilfield well sites and offshore support platforms. It features a parallel multi-core flat structure and is equipped with galvanized interlocking steel tape armor (0.3mm thickness, overlap ≥90%), effectively resisting impact, crushing, and rodent damage during field operations.

Compared to traditional round armored cables, its flat and compact shape saves ≥30% of cabling space—especially suitable for equipment clearances as narrow as 15mm and shallow cable trenches with limited space. The conductor is made of tinned soft copper stranded wire, and the insulation is XLPE cross-linked polyethylene, with oil resistance meeting ASTM D471 standards.

All products undergo rigorous full-process inspection according to API requirements. Our warehouse maintains a stock of over 5000 meters to support emergency deployment needs in drilling and fracturing operations.

Technical Specifications

Materials and Manufacturing Process

It uses high-purity tin-plated soft copper conductors with a finely stranded structure that supports ≥10 million bending cycles (tested according to ISO 1456 standard, bending radius is 8 times the cable outer diameter).

An oil-resistant XLPE cross-linked polyethylene insulation layer (according to ASTM D471 standard, can be immersed in crude oil, brine, and fracturing fluid for extended periods) protects each core.

The cable employs a double protection structure:
First layer: Galvanized interlocking steel tape armor
Second layer: Abrasion-resistant outer sheath
Our production workshop is equipped with fully automated flat cabling and interlocking armor production lines. Real-time laser diameter measurement and spark detection are implemented at each manufacturing stage. Each batch of finished products must pass 12 mandatory inspection checkpoints before leaving the factory.

Core Performance and Competitive Advantages

API Standard MLE, verified by third-party laboratories, possesses the following five core performance advantages:

1. Space-Saving Flat Structure – With an aspect ratio of up to 5:1, the flat design saves ≥30% of installation space compared to round cables of the same conductor cross-section, allowing installation in equipment gaps as narrow as 15mm.
2. Superior Mechanical Protection – Interlocking steel tape armor conforming to API standards effectively protects against impact, crushing, and rodent damage.
3. Extended Bending Life – The combination of finely stranded tinned copper conductors and a flexible sheath supports ≥10 million bending cycles at a bending radius of 8 times the cable's outer diameter, verified by ISO 1456 bending fatigue testing.
4. Chemical and Corrosion Resistance – The XLPE insulation and sheath have undergone a 72-hour continuous immersion test.
5. Electromagnetic Interference Shielding – The steel strip armor layer provides ≥85% electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, adapting to the complex electromagnetic environment of oil fields.

Main Application

API Standard MLE is deployed across a wide range of oil and gas field operations, including:

Certification and Compliance

It is manufactured under a strict quality management system, meeting the following standards:

1.API Spec 7-2
2.API Q1
3.ISO 9001:2015
4.IEC 60092

Our factory undergoes annual audits by third-party auditing agencies. SGS test reports and factory inspection certificates can be provided for each batch of products upon request. The entire process, from raw materials (copper rods) to finished cables, is traceable.

Why Choose Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is API Standard MLE cable used for?

It is primarily used in oilfield logging systems, wellhead control equipment, wireline units, instrumentation circuits, and other applications requiring a compact, mechanically protected flat cable. It is especially suitable for installations with limited space and frequent cable movement.

Q2. What makes API Standard MLE different from ordinary flat cables?

Unlike standard flat cables, our Product features galvanized interlocked steel armor and an oil-resistant outer jacket for enhanced protection against crushing, abrasion, impact, and harsh oilfield environments. Its construction is designed for demanding industrial applications where long-term reliability is critical.

Q3. Can the cable withstand continuous bending and movement?

Yes. The cable uses flexible Class 5 tinned stranded copper conductors and a reinforced flat structure, making it suitable for applications involving repeated bending, cable reels, drag chains, and mobile oilfield equipment.

Q4. Is API Standard MLE suitable for outdoor oilfield environments?

Yes. The cable is designed for both onshore and offshore installations. Its  jacket provides excellent resistance to oil, moisture, UV exposure, drilling fluids, and common industrial chemicals, ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments.

Q5. What conductor sizes and core configurations are available?

We offer customized conductor sizes, core numbers, and cable dimensions based on project requirements. Our engineering team can recommend the most suitable configuration according to voltage, current, installation conditions, and application requirements.

Q6. Can you manufacture customized API Standard MLE cables?

Yes. OEM and customized manufacturing services are available, including conductor size, number of cores, insulation material, armor type, outer jacket material, cable length, color, and customer-specific identification.

Q7. How is product quality verified before shipment?

Each cable undergoes comprehensive quality inspection before delivery. Typical tests include conductor resistance, insulation resistance, high-voltage withstand testing, dimensional inspection, armor integrity inspection, bending performance evaluation, and visual quality inspection.