ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) is a high-strength, economical bare overhead conductor composed of concentric-lay-stranded aluminum wires with a central steel core. Designed in accordance with BS 215 Part 2 standard, this conductor is widely used in medium to high voltage overhead power transmission and distribution systems. The combination of aluminum’s excellent conductivity and steel’s superior tensile strength makes ACSR ideal for long-span installations and harsh environmental conditions.
Applications
ACSR conductors are commonly used as:
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Bare overhead transmission lines
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Primary and secondary distribution conductors
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Messenger supports
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Long-span lines across rivers, valleys, and rugged terrains
They are especially suitable where high mechanical strength, reduced sag, and extended span distances are critical.
Standards
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British Standard: BS 215 Part 2 – Conductors having steel core for overhead lines
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Other applicable standards on request (e.g., ASTM B232, IEC 61089)
Features
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Excellent Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Combines aluminum’s lightweight conductivity with steel’s tensile reinforcement.
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Economical & Reliable: Widely recognized for cost-efficiency, durability, and field-proven performance.
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Superior Sag Performance: Suitable for higher tensioning and longer spans with reduced sag.
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Versatile Stranding: Available in various configurations based on required mechanical and electrical performance.
Construction
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Core: Galvanized steel wire(s) – either single wire or concentric-stranded (7, 19, 37 wires, etc.)
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Outer Layer(s): One or more layers of hard-drawn aluminum wires (1350-H19), helically stranded around the steel core.
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Design: Concentric-lay-stranded construction
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Coating: Zinc-coated (galvanized) steel core for corrosion resistance
acsr conductor construction
Typical ACSR Designations (per BS 215 Part 2)
Common ACSR types by code name (e.g., Mink, Rabbit, Wolf, Lynx) follow specific strand counts and diameters defined by BS 215 standards. Each code name represents a unique cross-sectional area and mechanical property profile.