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What is ACSR?

Written By: Charlie Barber

Posted February 5, 2024

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ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) cable is a type of electrical power cable that is commonly used for overhead power transmission. ACSR cable is made up of a central core of steel wires surrounded by aluminum wires. The steel core provides the necessary strength for the cable to support its weight, while the aluminum wires are used to conduct the electrical current.

Applications and Common Uses for ACSR

ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) cable is widely used in many different applications due to its many advantages. Some of the most common uses of ACSR cable include:

1. Overhead Power Transmission: One of the primary applications of ACSR cable is overhead power transmission. The cable is used to transmit electrical power from one point to another, typically over long distances. The combination of low-resistance aluminum conductors and high-strength steel core makes it well-suited for use in high-tension overhead power transmission lines.

2. Distribution Lines: ACSR cable is also commonly used in distribution lines to supply electrical power to homes and businesses. The cable's versatility makes it well-suited for use in different types of distribution lines, from rural areas to densely populated urban areas.

3. Renewable Energy Systems: ACSR cable is increasingly being used in renewable energy systems, such as wind and solar power installations. The cable's low resistance and high current-carrying capacity make it well-suited for use in these systems, where it is used to transmit electrical power from the energy source to the electrical grid.

4. High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Systems: ACSR cable is also used in HVDC systems, where it is used to transmit electrical power over long distances. The cable's low resistance and high-strength steel core make it well-suited for use in these systems, where it is used to transmit electrical power from one location to another with minimal energy loss.

Overall, ACSR cable is a versatile and reliable option for a wide range of power transmission and distribution applications. Whether you're looking to transmit electrical power over long distances or distribute it to homes and businesses, ACSR cable is an excellent choice.

Advantages of ACSR

One of the key advantages of ACSR cable is its ability to transmit electrical power over long distances with minimal energy loss. The aluminum wires in the cable have a low resistance, which means that they are able to conduct a large amount of electrical current with minimal energy loss. The steel core provides additional strength to the cable, allowing it to be used in high-tension overhead power transmission lines.

Another advantage of ACSR cable is its versatility. The cable can be easily manufactured in different sizes and configurations, depending on the specific requirements of a particular power transmission project. For example, ACSR cable can be manufactured with different numbers of aluminum wires, depending on the required current-carrying capacity. Additionally, the cable can be manufactured with different diameters, depending on the required strength and weight of the cable.

In terms of installation, ACSR cable is relatively easy to install compared to other types of power transmission cables. The cable is lightweight, which makes it easier to handle, and it can be easily spliced and terminated at the end of a transmission line.

Overall, ACSR cable is an efficient and reliable option for overhead power transmission. Its combination of low resistance aluminum conductors and high-strength steel core make it well suited for a wide range of power transmission applications. If you're looking for a cost-effective and efficient way to transmit electrical power over long distances, ACSR cable is definitely worth considering.

DWC Has ACSR!

At DWC, our amazing supplier network allows us to stock a full range of aluminum wire & cable variations. With great service, cut-to-length orders, and speedy fulfillment, DWC is your first place to go for popular ACSR varieties.

Contact your Account Manager today at 888-439-2947 or log into your fastQuote account to use DWC’s easy customer portal for wire & cable quotes in about 6 minutes.