Aluminiumkabeler

Aluminiumkabeler are electrical conductors made from aluminium or aluminium alloys. They are widely used for overhead power transmission and distribution lines, as well as for some insulated cable installations in buildings and industrial plants. Aluminium’s combination of light weight, corrosion resistance and cost makes it a common alternative to copper in many applications.

There are several main types of aluminium cables. Bare overhead conductors include AAC (All Aluminum Conductor), AAAC (All Aluminum Alloy Conductor) and ACSR (Aluminium Conductor Steel Reinforced). AAC and AAAC are composed entirely of aluminium or aluminium alloy strands, while ACSR contains aluminium strands surrounding a steel core to increase tensile strength for long spans. Insulated aluminium cables use polymer or paper insulation (such as PVC or XLPE) for use in power distribution within buildings or equipment, and may be armored or jacketed for protection.

Key properties include a conductivity around 61% that of copper, and a density about one third that of copper, resulting in a favorable strength-to-weight ratio. Aluminium also forms a protective oxide layer that offers good corrosion resistance in many environments. Common aluminium used for conductors is a recrystallized alloy (e.g., 1350-O) or other alloys designed for higher strength. However, aluminium has higher resistivity than copper, requiring larger cross-sections to carry the same current, and joints or connections can be sensitive to galvanic corrosion and mechanical fatigue if not properly designed.

Standards and classifications for aluminium cables are published by various national and international bodies (such as IEC, ASTM/ANSI and CSA). Typical applications include overhead transmission and distribution lines, service feeders, and certain insulated power cables in buildings and industrial settings.