Description
The aluminum conductor steel supported is a composite concentric-lay stranded cable. It is formed by the coating of one or more layers of aluminum alloy wires which are made of the 1000 series aluminum 1350-0 and the core cable which is made of steel. It is used in overhead distribution and transmission lines. The heat treatment of annealed tempering softens the aluminum coating, thus the steel carries most or all the mechanical load. The steel core may contain 7, 19, 37 or more wires. For the use in ordinary environment, class A zinc coating is usually adequate.

Features
1. The maximum temperature it can bear is as high as 200℃ without loss of strength.
2. Compared with ACSR, it sags less under emergency electrical loads. The reduced sag helps economize the conductor to the largest extend.
3. After being pre-stretched before installation, it gains excellent self-damping property, thus long term creep of the aluminum will not increase its final sag.

Applications
Because of these advantages, this steel supported aluminum conductor is useful in many aspects. Firstly, it is especially useful in re-conducting applications which requires increased current under the existing tensions and clearances. Secondly, it can be used in new wire connection applications where require high emergency power load. And thirdly, it is suitable to be used in electrical systems that are easily influenced by aeolian vibration.

Standards
ACSS conductors are manufactured according to the requirements of the most recently applicable issues in ASTM specification B856.