Why Is Aluminium Used In Power Cables?

The use of aluminium as a conductor of choice in power cables is a matter of functionality and application. It’s true that the traditional alu cable does not have the tensile strength or the conductivity copper cables. But manufacturers address that deficiency by reinforcing the cable during production processes. The use of aluminum conductor steel reinforcement (ACSR) for power cables addresses the issue of low tensile strength.

The reinforcement process then makes aluminium a better and lighter alternate power cable compared to copper cables. Also, because of the cost differential between the two metals – copper and aluminium – power cable manufacturers use aluminium more often in manufacturing their power cables. For example, a 25mm aluminium cable can sometimes cost less than half the price of an equivalent copper alternative.