Copper Clad Steel (CCS) conductors combine the high conductivity of copper with the high tensile strength and durability of steel, offering a reliable solution for grounding, overhead support, and anti-theft applications. Manufactured to meet multiple ASTM standards, CCS wire is engineered for performance in harsh electrical and environmental conditions.
Applications
CCS wire and strand are widely used in:
-
Buried Ground Grid Systems
-
Overhead Ground Wire (Shield Wire)
-
Messenger Wire
-
Lightning Protection
-
Guy Wire and Structural Reinforcement
-
Antenna Wire and Transmission Lines
Its unique composition allows CCS conductors to withstand mechanical stress and electrical fault conditions, making them ideal for critical infrastructure.
Key Features
-
Dual-Metal Performance
The steel core provides excellent mechanical strength, while the outer copper layer offers stable conductivity and corrosion resistance. -
Theft Deterrent
With minimal scrap value and high cutting resistance, CCS wire helps reduce the risk of cable theft in vulnerable installations. -
Fault Current Performance
Capable of withstanding high short-circuit currents without significant degradation. -
Corrosion Resistance
The copper cladding protects the steel core from oxidation, ensuring long service life in harsh or underground environments.
Construction
Copper Clad Steel conductors are manufactured by bonding a continuous layer of high-purity copper onto a high-strength steel core using a metallurgical process. This ensures:
-
Excellent adhesion between copper and steel
-
Uniform conductivity along the surface
-
Flexibility and durability across temperature variations
Available in solid or concentric-lay-stranded constructions, depending on application requirements.
Applicable Standards
-
ASTM B227 – Hard-Drawn Copperclad Steel Wire
-
ASTM B228 – Concentric-Lay-Stranded Copperclad Steel Conductors
-
ASTM B910 – Annealed Copperclad Steel Wire
-
ASTM B193 – Resistivity Testing for Electrical Conductors
-
ASTM B258 – AWG Size and Cross-Sectional Area Specifications
Benefits at a Glance
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Copper-Clad Design | Combines conductivity and tensile strength |
| ASTM-Compliant | Ensures international quality and dimensional standards |
| Anti-Theft Properties | Low scrap value and cutting difficulty deter vandalism |
| Long Service Life | Resistant to corrosion and harsh environments |
| Versatile Construction | Available in solid or stranded designs for varied use |