The Nexans hybrid ship to shore connection cable, branded RHEYFIRM (RS), is aimed mainly at the new generation of large container vessels, LNG tankers, ferries and cruise ships, which require vast quantities of electric power (typically 1 to 5 MW and currents of over 300A) to support heating, air conditioning, lighting and computer control systems.

There is increasing political pressure on shipping operators and port authorities worldwide to improve air quality in ports, especially as they are often located in densely populated cities. According to the 2005 Clean Air for Europe impact assessment issued by the European Union, 'Ships are fast becoming the biggest source of air pollution in the EU. Unless more action is taken they are set to emit more than all land sources combined by 2020.' In May 2006, the European Commission adopted the 'Recommendation on the promotion of shore-side electricity for use by ships at berth in EU ports'.

The Nexans RHEYFIRM (RS) ship to shore cable integrates MV (6/10kV) power supply, control cores and optical fibres for data transmission such as telephone and internet in a single, rugged, cable designed to be easy to reel either from onboard or from portside. It has been developed in conjunction with SAM Electronics in Hamburg, one of Nexans’ leading shipboard cable customers, while Cavotec has designed the matching reels, plugs and connectors to create a complete connection system.

RHEYFIRM (RS) cable is around 80mm in diameter and comprises three 185mm² phase conductors and two earthing conductors that provide an effective cross section of 95 mm^2, as well as five control cores and 12 optical fibres.

Some 2,000m of the cable have already been delivered for 10 container ships, and Nexans, SAM Electronics and Cavotec are now promoting the system globally to meet the needs of busy ports and superports. Nexans Germany participated in a working group to create the first draft of a standard for this new type of cable. This is now being discussed on an international basis and the CDV (committee draft for voting) is expected at the end of this year.