TransPowr® ACSS/AW Bare Overhead Conductor (US)
ACSS/AW is a composite concentric-lay-stranded cable composed of aluminum-clad steel strands that form the central core. Surrounding this core are one or more layers of 1350-O aluminum wire. ACSS/AW conductors are manufactured according to the most recent version of ASTM B856 standards. The "O" temper designation of the aluminum indicates that it is fully annealed or in a soft temper, which allows most or all of the mechanical load to be supported by the steel core. The aluminum-clad steel core can consist of 7, 19, 37, or more wires, and various combinations of aluminum and steel strands and layers are available. The sizes and strandings mentioned in the following pages are the most commonly used for overhead lines.
Features and Benefits
The ACSS/AW conductor features a core consisting of a thick aluminum layer (approximately 10% of the nominal wire radius) over a steel core. This design combines the advantages of standard ACSS conductors with the lightweight and excellent conductivity of aluminum, as well as the high tensile strength and durability of steel. ACSS/AW conductors can operate continuously at high temperatures (up to 250°C) without sustaining damage, which significantly enhances their current-carrying capacity. The cross-sections provided illustrate some common stranding configurations.
Applications
Aluminum conductor steel-supported with aluminum-clad steel wire (ACSS/AW) is ideal for use in overhead distribution and transmission lines, particularly in environments requiring a high level of corrosion resistance.
Options
- E3X® surface coating (/E3X)
- Trapezoidal-shaped aluminum strands (/TW)
- Non-specular surface finish (/NS)