What is an ACSR Conductor?
conductor steel-reinforced cable (ACSR) is a type of high-capacity, high-strength stranded conductor typically used in overhead power lines.
The outer strands are high-purity aluminium, chosen for its good conductivity, low weight and low cost.
The center strand is galvanised steel for additional strength to help support the weight of the conductor and provide additional mechanical strength.
Steel has higher strength than aluminium which allows for increased mechanical tension to be applied to the conductor.
What is HTLS Conductor?
High-Temperature Low Sag Conductors (HTLS) can withstand operating temperatures of up to 210 °C, thus carrying higher power compared to conventional conductors.
Comparison between ACSR & HTLS Conductor?
| Feature | ACSR | HTLS |
|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | Aluminum conductor with steel core | Composite conductor with various materials, including aluminum, steel, and composite materials |
| Temperature Rating | Standard temperature rating | Higher temperature rating, designed to handle elevated temperatures without significant sagging |
| Sag Performance | More susceptible to sagging under high temperatures and heavy loads | Designed for low sag, maintaining structural integrity even at high temperatures and heavy loads |
| Ampacity | Limited by temperature constraints and sag considerations | Higher ampacity due to enhanced thermal performance and lower sag |
| Corona Performance | Moderate corona performance | Improved corona performance, reducing energy losses and electrical discharge |
| Usage Considerations | Common in regular transmission lines | Used in specific applications where high ampacity, low sag, and reduced corona loss are critical, often employed in reconductoring projects |
| Cost | Generally more economical | Usually more expensive due to advanced design and materials, but the higher performance justifies the cost in certain scenarios |
| Applications | Widely used in various transmission scenarios | Specifically chosen for applications where the benefits of higher ampacity and reduced sag are essential, such as reconductoring projects and areas with right-of-way challenges |