The ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) Squirrel conductor with a 20mm² cross-sectional area is a highly efficient and robust solution for overhead power transmission and distribution lines. This specialized conductor combines the excellent electrical conductivity of aluminum with the superior mechanical strength of a steel core, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of demanding applications in electrical grids.
Key Features and Characteristics
- Construction: The ACSR Squirrel conductor is meticulously engineered with six (6) stranded aluminum wires concentrically arranged around a single steel core strand.
- Material Properties:
- The aluminum strands provide outstanding electrical conductivity, ensuring efficient power flow with minimal loss.
- The central steel core imparts high tensile strength and robust mechanical support, crucial for maintaining conductor integrity under tension and environmental stresses.
- 'Squirrel' Designation: This specific designation refers to a precise configuration:
- 6 Aluminum Strands: Each with a diameter of 2.11mm.
- 1 Steel Strand: With a diameter of 2.11mm.
- The total nominal cross-sectional area for this configuration is 20mm².
Applications
ACSR Squirrel conductors are versatile and widely utilized in various overhead power line scenarios due to their balanced performance characteristics:
- Overhead Transmission and Distribution Lines: A common choice for general-purpose power delivery.
- Long-Distance EHV (Extra High Voltage) Transmission Lines: Suitable for applications requiring robust conductors over extended distances.
- Sub-service Spans: Effective for shorter spans and connections at lower distribution voltages.
- River Crossings: Their inherent strength allows for deployment in challenging terrains where long spans are necessary.
- Areas with High Wind or Ice Loading: The steel reinforcement provides the necessary resilience to withstand severe weather conditions.
Advantages
ACSR Squirrel conductors are favored by utilities and power infrastructure developers for their compelling benefits:
- Economy: They offer a cost-effective solution, providing a high strength-to-weight ratio at a competitive price point, optimizing overall project costs.
- Dependability: The composite construction ensures high reliability and long-term performance under various operational and environmental stresses.
- Favorable Strength-to-Weight Ratio: This allows for longer spans between support structures, leading to fewer poles/towers and reduced civil works.
- Higher Tensions and Less Sag: The steel core enables the conductor to be installed at higher tensions, resulting in reduced sag over spans. This is critical for maintaining necessary ground clearances and minimizing conductor movement.
- Longer Spans: The ability to withstand higher tensions directly translates to the feasibility of achieving longer spans compared to all-aluminum or all-alloy conductors, simplifying line design and reducing infrastructure.
The ACSR Squirrel Conductor 20mm² stands as a proven and efficient choice for building resilient and cost-effective overhead power networks, leveraging the combined strengths of aluminum and steel to deliver reliable electricity.