Modern power grids have an improved technology conductor that is engineered to offer superior mechanical and electrical performance. With the increase of power demand, the transmission lines must be in stellar shape and performance to deliver.

The capability of transmission lines is often limited by a range of factors, including, conductor size, thermal operating limitations, safe sag clearances, etc. To rise above all these challenges, the ACCC (Aluminium Conductor Composite Core) conductors emerge as a prime choice where ACSR (Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced) and ACSS (Aluminium Conductor Steel Supported) falls short.

Let’s get into exploring ACCC transmission line conductor benefits, making them a top option in the power industry.

 

More Capacity and Efficiency

 

Grid congestion is a problem that occurs due to increased power demand. It can also happen as a result of planned or unplanned outages and other factors. Nevertheless, the capacity of transmission lines is a matter of consideration as the demand rises each day.

ACCC conductors have double the capacity than the other options available. This capacity comes from its robust composite core material which has a higher strength-to-weight ratio than steel.

Where the tensile strength of standard steel wire is 1240~1410MPa, the ACCC conductors have twice the strength than it. Also, the weight per unit length of these conductors is 10-20% lighter, making them an ideal solution to reduce footprint.

But that is not all, it also delivers increased transmission line efficiency as they experience reduced line losses. Unlike conventional conductors, ACCC technology offers lower electrical resistance, the chances of transmission loss lower by around 6%.

 

Better Reliability and Durability

 

Environmental conditions like temperature fluctuations, high winds, etc. are some of the reasons why transmission lines are impacted. Sudden power outage or the need for maintenance due to the conditions can not just increase operational cost but disrupts consumer demands.

ACCC conductors have the composite core that delivers better mechanical strength and resilience against these conditions. It is because of their higher durability performance, the occurrences of outages are less making power supply reliable.

But the advantages of ACCC conductors goes beyond this. They also happen to get less thermal sag compared to other steel wire options. Even in high temperatures, the arc sag of ACCC conductors is less than 12% of steel-core conductors.

It is an important feature to have especially in areas having high ambient temperatures or in times of high demand. Using the conductor option means getting safe clearances and minimising the risk of line failures.

 

Better Infrastructure Upgrades

 

ACCC conductors have the ability to be installed in an existing transmission line with the ease of just pulling out the old wire and plugging in the new one. This makes the whole reconductoring process hassle-free as utility engineers rebuild or make any major modifications to the infrastructure.

Capital investments can be cut down significantly with upgrades being simplified while powering up the capacity. Furthermore, the carbon fibre composite core of ACCC conductors are rust-proof. They also prevent the problem concerning electrochemical corrosion when energised.

Due to its corrosion-resistant performance, they have longer service life with the added bonus of lesser maintenance cost over time.

These ACCC transmission line conductor benefits make them the ideal choice in modern-day grid systems. If you are interested in making this switch then connect with us at Dutco Tennant to get your hands on the leading product in the market.