Is there any difference between Southwire ACSS and its competitor’s product?
To produce the strand sizes used in conductors, larger diameter aluminum rod is “drawn”, basically stretched, through a series of progressively smaller dies until it reaches the desired diameter. In doing this, the aluminum is “work hardened”, meaning its temper and electrical resistance are increased. Aluminum hardened in this manner can then be annealed – softened and its electrical resistance decreased. Annealing is accomplished using a specific heating and cooling regimen. It is important to note that the amount of annealing imparted is a function of both time and temperature – the longer aluminum is exposed to the temperature the more annealing that takes place – and that annealing is cumulative. Fully annealed aluminum, as used in overhead conductors, is designated as 1350-O aluminum. This is the lowest strength, most ductile temper rating. While the 1350-O aluminum is softer than the 1350-H19 aluminum used in ACSR, and is slightly more susceptible to damage, it is not so soft as
