ACAR (Aluminum Conductor Alloy Reinforced) is a high-performance overhead conductor designed for power transmission and distribution lines. It combines the high conductivity of Aluminum 1350 with the superior mechanical strength of an Aluminum-Magnesium-Silicon alloy (AlMgSi) core, resulting in an excellent strength-to-weight ratio—often superior to traditional ACSR conductors.
ACAR is ideal for installations where reduced line sag, high current carrying capacity, and improved mechanical performance are critical.
Key Features
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High strength-to-weight ratio compared to ACSR
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Better corrosion resistance due to all-aluminum construction
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Reduced line sag under load and temperature stress
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Suitable for long-span and high-load applications
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Excellent conductivity and mechanical strength
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Complies with ASTM B524 standard for concentric-lay-stranded ACAR
Applications
ACAR conductors are widely used as bare overhead transmission and distribution lines, particularly in:
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Long-span transmission lines
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Coastal and corrosive environments
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Heavily loaded conductors requiring low sag
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Power grid upgrades or capacity expansions
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Replacement for ACSR in harsh environments
Construction
ACAR Conductor construction
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Core | Central strand or strands of high-strength aluminum alloy (AlMgSi) |
| Outer Layers | One or more concentric layers of hard-drawn Aluminum 1350 wires |
| Stranding | Concentric-lay stranding; in some designs, alloy strands may be distributed throughout |
All wires—both aluminum and alloy—are of equal diameter, and stranding combinations may vary based on mechanical and electrical performance requirements.
Standard
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ASTM B524 – Standard Specification for Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Aluminum-Alloy Reinforced (ACAR)
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Other applicable: ASTM B398 (AlMgSi alloy wires), ASTM B232 (Aluminum wires)
Advantages Over ACSR
| Feature | ACAR | ACSR |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion Resistance | Higher (all-aluminum) | Lower (steel core) |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Sag Performance | Better | Moderate |
| Strength-to-Weight | Superior | Lower |
| Thermal Expansion | Lower | Higher |
| Magnetic Properties | Non-magnetic | Magnetic (steel) |
Available Configurations
ACAR conductors are available in multiple strand designs (e.g., 18/19, 26/7, 30/7, 48/7) based on application requirements. TOT Wire & Cable supplies ACAR in a wide range of sizes and constructions per ASTM B524.
Technical Specifications (Sample)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard | ASTM B524 |
| Rated Voltage | Up to 500 kV |
| Conductor Material | Aluminum 1350 + AlMgSi alloy |
| Stranding | Concentric lay, multi-strand |
| Temperature Rating | Up to 90°C (continuous), 150°C (emergency) |
| Tensile Strength | Customizable based on alloy core design |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (no galvanic reaction with aluminum components) |
Why Choose TOT ACAR Conductors?
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Strict ASTM compliance (B524, B398, etc.)
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Custom design available for optimized performance
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Ideal for utility upgrades and transmission expansion
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Fast delivery and competitive pricing
Contact Us
Need help selecting the right ACAR conductor size or stranding configuration? Contact TOT Wire & Cable for expert advice, technical datasheets, and competitive pricing tailored to your project needs.