Aluminium Armoured Cable: Lightweight, Cost-Effective Power Solution

Aluminium Armoured Cable is a widely used type of power cable known for its lightweight structure, cost efficiency, and strong mechanical protection. It plays an important role in medium- to low-voltage power transmission, especially where cost, corrosion resistance, or ease of installation are major concerns.

aluminium armoured cable

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What aluminium armoured cable is

• Structure and specifications

• Key advantages

• Common types (SWA, AWA)

• Applications

• Selection and installation tips

🔍 What Is Aluminium Armoured Cable?

Aluminium armoured cable refers to an electrical cable with aluminium conductors or aluminium wire armor (or both), designed for environments that require mechanical protection and reliable power transmission.

There are two common meanings:

• Aluminium conductor + steel/aluminium armour

• Copper conductor + aluminium armour (e.g., AWA for single-core cables)

👉 These cables are often used in power distribution systems, industrial networks, and underground installations.

⚙️ Typical Structure

A standard aluminium armoured power cable consists of:

• Conductor: Aluminium or copper

• Insulation: XLPE or PVC

• Bedding layer: Non-metallic for cushioning

• Armour layer:

  • Steel Wire Armour (SWA) for multi-core cables

  • Aluminium Wire Armour (AWA) for single-core cables

• Outer sheath: PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen)

🧱 Voltage rating: Commonly 600/1000V or up to 11kV (for MV cables)
📏 Standard: BS 5467, IEC 60502-1

🏆 Key Advantages

✅ Lightweight – Easier handling and reduced installation cost compared to copper armoured cables
✅ Cost-Effective – Aluminium is less expensive than copper
✅ Corrosion-Resistant – Especially in coastal or damp areas
✅ Good Mechanical Protection – Armor layer protects from impact or crushing

💡 Tip: AWA is non-magnetic, making it ideal for single-core cables to reduce eddy current losses.

🔧 Common Types of Aluminium Armoured Cable

1. AWA Cable (Aluminium Wire Armoured Cable)

• Use: For single-core cables

• Reason: Aluminium is non-ferromagnetic → reduces heat from eddy currents

• Voltage levels: LV or MV (600V – 11kV)

• Sheath options: PVC, LSZH

2. SWA with Aluminium Conductor

• Use: Multi-core power cable

• Armor: Galvanized steel wire

• Conductors: Aluminium

• Advantage: Combines strong armor with low-weight conductor

🏗️ Applications

• Power distribution networks (underground or overhead)

• Renewable energy systems (solar, wind farms)

• Industrial installations

• Construction sites

• Temporary or permanent outdoor wiring

• Substations and switchgear

📌 Selection Guide

🧰 Installation Notes

• Always use proper glands compatible with armored cables

• Cut carefully to avoid damaging insulation

• Ensure earthing continuity through the armor if required

• Use bending radius per specification to avoid stress cracking

• Seal the cable ends properly in outdoor or wet areas

📦 Sizes and Specifications (Example)

📞 Need Aluminium Armoured Cable?

At TOT Wire & Cable, we offer a wide range of aluminium armoured cables with competitive prices and fast delivery. Whether you need low voltage AWA for single-core use or full-size SWA aluminium cables, we can provide customized solutions.

👉 Contact us today for datasheets, samples, or bulk pricing!