Aluminum is known to be both lightweight and easy to handle when used as a cable material. In contemporary applications, aluminum cables have demonstrated notable strength and durability, particularly evident in the ACSR conductor variety. This stranded conductor combines the lightweight properties of aluminum with the ruggedness of steel. It is often found in applications that require exceptional strength and durability. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of what is an ACSR conductor, including their types and advantages.
What is ACSR conductors?
Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced cable (ACSR) is a type of high-strength stranded conductor commonly used in overhead power transmission. ACSR conductors consist of two main components: aluminum and steel. Aluminum is highly conductive and allows for efficient power transmission. The steel core, on the other hand, gives the cable the necessary structural integrity to ensure that it can withstand physical stress over long distances. It is this combination of materials that makes steel-core aluminum stranded cables particularly suitable for long-distance power transmission.
To increase the durability of the steel used in these conductors, a protective layer can be applied by galvanizing or using other coating materials. This treatment helps to prevent corrosion and thus extends the service life of the cable in various environmental conditions.
In addition, steel-core aluminum stranded cables are designed to meet different requirements and are available in a range of sizes, including single or multiple center wires. This versatility ensures that ACSR conductors are tailored to meet specific needs and provide optimum performance for power distribution networks.
Where we use ACSR conductors?
Bare overhead transmission lines: ACSR conductors are most commonly used in high voltage overhead transmission lines. They are capable of transmitting large amounts of power over long distances without significant losses. ACSR is well-suited for a wide range of practical applications, including wood utility poles, transmission towers, and various other structures, due to its proven reliability and strength.
Primary and Secondary Distribution Lines: ACSR conductors are widely used in distribution systems to supply power to residential and commercial areas. From the large networks required to serve rural communities to the complex systems required in urban areas, ACSR conductors can be adapted to suit different types of distribution networks.
High temperature resistance: The conductors are designed for durability and construction. Therefore, it is well suited for environments that require high-temperature resistance and can withstand heavy-duty use.
Renewable energy systems: ACSR conductor is increasingly used in renewable energy systems (e.g. wind and solar installations). Because of its low resistance and high capacity, it provides for efficient transmission of electricity to the grid.
ACSR Conductor Types
Several varieties of ACSR conductors are available on the market, each designed to meet specific requirements and applications：
- All Aluminium Conductor –AAC
- Aluminium Conductor Aluminium Reinforce –ACAR
- All Aluminium Alloy Conductors –AAAC
- Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced – ACSR
AAC： Compared to other types, AAC conductor exhibits lower strength and increased sag per span, making it suitable for use at the distribution level. Its conductivity is somewhat superior for distribution applications. The costs of AAC and ACSR conductors are comparable.
ACAR： ACAR combines multiple strands of aluminum alloy, delivering a transmission conductor that boasts an optimal balance of electrical and mechanical properties. The unique advantage of this conductor lies in the uniformity of its strands, keeping superior electrical and mechanical performance.
AAAC： AAAC wire differs from AAC in its alloy composition. Its strength is comparable to that of steel-free ACSR, resulting in a lighter weight. However, its alloy composition increases cost. Because of its higher tensile strength, AAAC is suitable for longer spans. Examples include crossing challenging terrain such as rivers, mountains and swamps. Because in these terrains, lighter support structures are highly favorable.
ACSR： ACSR conductors feature a steel-filled core designed for high-strength applications. This type of conductor is suitable for overhead grounding lines, as well as installations requiring extra long spans and river crossings. It is available in a variety of tensile strengths for a wide range of applications. The larger diameter of the conductor greatly increases the radiation limit, thus enhancing its utility in harsh environments.
What are the advantages of ACSR?
Efficient power transmission
ACSR conductors are extremely efficient in power transmission over long distances with minimal energy loss. Aluminum stranded cables are characterized by low resistance and can transmit large currents with almost negligible losses, thus increasing the efficiency of distribution networks.
Versatility and customization
ACSR conductors offer excellent versatility and can be customized to meet a variety of transmission needs. They can be manufactured in various sizes and configurations as per the requirements of a particular project. The number of aluminum wires can be adjusted for different current capacities, and cable diameters can be modified to meet the requirement for a balance between strength and weight, making ACSR cables suitable for a wide range of applications.
Easy to install
Compared to other transmission cables, ACSR conductors are easier to install due to their light weight and flexibility. This ease of handling simplifies tasks such as splicing and termination of transmission line ends, greatly reducing installation time and costs.
How is ACSR cable made？
ACSR conductors are made of hard-drawn aluminum wire and round galvanized steel wire. The steel core, made of one or more strands of galvanized steel wire, provides strength and stiffness, while the outer layer of aluminum wire, stranded in a concentric pattern, provides excellent electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. The core and surrounding wire mesh are encased in a plastic jacket.
This cable is used in high voltage transmission lines because it can carry large amounts of current without being damaged by the heat generated by the current. The combination of materials enables ACSR conductors to withstand physical stresses while providing high electrical performance.
ACSR Conductor Conclusion
Simply put, the ACSR conductors are a rugged and efficient power transmission solution. It is efficient, durable and cost-effective in many applications. However, it is important to keep in mind that ACSR also has some in-use challenges. For example, it can be subject to galvanic corrosion. Despite these challenges, ACSR can be a reliable part of any power distribution system. When choosing ACSR conductors, it’s important to consider operating voltage, environmental conditions, and current carrying capacity. Also we need to be careful in choosing quality cable products. Such as ZW cable, a leading manufacturer in China, has rich experience and a wide range of products of acsr type.
FAQs：
What is the difference between AAC and ACSR conductors?
The primary distinction between AAC and ACSR conductors lies in the materials used in their construction. AAC conductors are made from electrolytically refined aluminum, ensuring a minimum purity level of 99.7%. On the other hand, ACSR conductors are composed of a core of steel reinforced with aluminum. This combination provides ACSR conductors with a unique blend of strength and conductivity, allowing them to support larger distances and higher loads compared to AAC conductors.
Why acsr conductor is used for overhead lines?
ACSR conductor are very economical in design, combining high tensile strength with relatively low weight. This makes them ideal for medium to long spans. This reduces the need for extensive support structures. In addition, ACSR conductors have excellent sag characteristics, making them ideal for high voltage overhead lines. As a result, their efficiency and reliability in a variety of power infrastructure projects is increased.
What are the disadvantages of ACSR conductor?
The primary disadvantages include that the conductors occupy significantly more space, about 156% more, than their counterparts. Additionally, they exhibit a higher specific resistance and a greater coefficient of thermal expansion, which is about 142% higher. These factors can impact their efficiency and durability in various applications
