2024 TECHNICAL UPDATE

Advanced Conductor
Specification Guide

14477471
Advanced Conductor
Specification Guide

3002030304

Technical Update, May 2024

EPRI Project Manager
G. Sibilant

EPRI
3420 Hillview Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304-1338 USA
800.313.3774
14477471 ▪ 650.855.2121 ▪ [email protected] ▪ www.epri.com
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14477471
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
EPRI prepared this report.
Principal Investigator
G. Sibilant
This report describes research sponsored by EPRI. This report is being made available freely to
the public as part of EPRI's GET SET (Grid Enhancing Technologies for a Smart Energy Transition)
initiative.

This publication is a corporate document that should be cited in the literature in the following
manner: Advanced Conductor Specification Guide. EPRI, Palo Alto, CA: 2024. 3002030304.
14477471 Page | iii
 ABSTRACT
This report aims to provide utilities with information on developing a specification for procuring
advanced conductors and connectors. The specification can be used to ensure that the
conductors purchased are within standard specifications and help de-risk the use of the
conductors by detailing the technical specifications (including the EPRI-developed test that the
carbon core conductors need to be subjected to) that the conductors need to satisfy. The
information in this report enables utilities to confidently specify and procure advanced
conductors, which assists in de-risking the use of this technology.

Keywords
Advanced Conductors
Conductor specification
Connector specification
Specification guide

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 CONTENTS
1 Executive Summary .......................................................................................................... 1

2 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 3
Background ............................................................................................................................ 3
EPRI Advanced Conductor Resources .................................................................................... 3
Conductor Specification ...................................................................................................... 3
Accelerated Aging Tests ...................................................................................................... 4
Advanced Conductor Use Cases.......................................................................................... 5
Ongoing Research and Development (R&D) ....................................................................... 6

3 Advanced Conductor Specification Guide ......................................................................... 7

Scope Sample Specification ................................................................................................... 7
General Sample Specification ................................................................................................ 8
Applicable Codes and Standards Sample Specification .......................................................... 8
Detailed Requirements Sample Specification ...................................................................... 11
Inspection and Testing Sample Specification ....................................................................... 13
Inspections........................................................................................................................ 13
Core Receiving Inspection ................................................................................................. 14
Testing .............................................................................................................................. 14
Packing and Marking Sample Specification .......................................................................... 18
Conductor Storage and Handling Sample Specification ....................................................... 20

4 Connector Specification .................................................................................................. 21

Purpose and Scope .............................................................................................................. 21
General ................................................................................................................................ 21
Applicable References ......................................................................................................... 21
Detailed Requirements ........................................................................................................ 21
Inspection and Tests ............................................................................................................ 22
Shop Inspection ................................................................................................................ 22
Tests ................................................................................................................................. 22

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 Marking and Packaging ........................................................................................................ 24
Marking ............................................................................................................................ 24
Packaging .......................................................................................................................... 24
Storage and Handling .......................................................................................................... 24

A Qualification Test ........................................................................................................... 25

B Sample Conductor Forms ............................................................................................... 31

C Example of a Conductor Specification............................................................................. 37

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 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. EPRI Charlotte, Conductor Test Bay................................................................................ 4
Figure 2. DMA scan (the arrow indicates the maximum loss modulus, E″) ................................. 26
Figure 3. Physical representation of a three-point bending test ................................................. 27

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 LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Conductors tested ........................................................................................................... 5
Table 2. Receiving inspection tests for the conductor composite core ....................................... 14
Table 3. Report of physical properties ........................................................................................ 15
Table 4. Sequence of sample load conditions ............................................................................. 16
Table 5. Example of certified report (Attachment 1 – Technical Details) .................................... 23

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1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Advanced Conductors use new and existing materials to increase
the thermal capacity of power lines. They are part of a family of
technologies called Grid-Enhancing Technologies (or GETs).
These hardware and/or software technologies can increase the
capacity, efficiency, reliability, and safety of existing
transmission lines. GETs can reduce congestion costs, improve What is GET SET?
integration of renewables, and increase capacity. GETs can be Energy companies are seeking all
used alongside new transmission lines to facilitate the clean options for increasing delivery
energy transition. capacity to support energy
transition objectives and large
This report aims to provide utilities with information on demand increases from AI and
developing a specification for procuring advanced conductors manufacturing growth. EPRI’s GET
and connectors. The specification can be used to ensure that the SET (Grid-Enhancing Technologies
conductors purchased are within standard specifications and for a Smart Energy Transition)
help de-risk the use of the conductors by detailing the technical initiative aims to support the
specifications (including the EPRI-developed test that the carbon deployment of a subset of
core conductors need to be subjected to) that the conductors technologies to respond to the
need to satisfy. The information in this report enables utilities to rapid load growth, changing
confidently specify and procure advanced conductors, which generation mix, and extreme
assists in de-risking the use of this technology. weather that energy companies
are facing today. These solutions
This report results from two decades of testing conducted at can potentially maximize the
EPRI’s laboratories, various utility-based field trials, and capacity of existing assets now,
numerous technical sessions held with utilities and technology while working to build new
vendors. EPRI developed a conductor and connector testing capacity in the long term.
protocol that utilizes a 90-ft long test bed that can
accommodate up to 24 conductors in six independent tests. This The GET SET initiative is
protocol was unique at the time since the conductors could be committed to assimilating and
tested and evaluated for electrical and mechanical stresses. disseminating existing GETs
knowledge to support utilities in
To date, EPRI has tested the following conductors: assessing and deploying GETs
now, as well as leveraging those
1. Aluminum Conductor Composite Core (ACCC): deployments and additonal
− Regular core research to answer remaining
− Ultra-low sag core questions and provide the tools
that utilities need to evaluate and
2. Aluminum Conductor Composite Reinforced (ACCR)
deploy more broadly.
3. Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported (ACSS):
− High strength
− Extra-high strength
− Ultra-high strength

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4. C7:
− Aluminum Conductor Composite Supported (ACCS) – Thermoset and Thermoplastic
− Aluminum Conductor Composite Reinforced (ACCR) – Thermoplastic
5. Gap-Type Conductor
6. High-Voltage Composite Reinforced Conductor (HVCRC)
7. TS Conductor
This report will assist utilities:

• Develop specifications for procuring Advanced Conductors and connectors

• Get a better understanding of the specification tests required
• De-risk specifying and procuring advanced conductors

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2 INTRODUCTION

Background
This guide is designed to assist utilities in specifying advanced conductors for overhead
transmission line applications. Advanced conductors are products developed to meet the need
to increase the transmission capacity of existing corridors; advanced conductors have
subsequently also been used for high-capacity new overhead lines. The characteristics of
Advanced Conductors are higher current carrying capacity (by allowing the conductor to
operate at high temperatures) and generally lower sags for the same conductor temperature
when compared to the conventional aluminum-conductor, steel-reinforced (ACSR) conductors.
Although all advanced conductors possess the same general characteristics, many differ
substantially. Some of these conductors use materials such as ACSR conductors and, thus,
closely resemble conventional conductors. For other Advanced Conductors, recently developed
non-conventional composite materials are used for the conductor core.
EPRI started a pilot project in 2004 to investigate conductor performance with a field trial on
five different Advanced Conductors. Since then, EPRI has tested many of the advanced
conductors currently available, developed test protocols and specification guidelines, and
collected utility use cases of advanced conductor applications. Details of this work are shown
below.

EPRI Advanced Conductor Resources

Conductor Specification
EPRI has developed an advanced conductor specification guide that utilities can use in
developing their specification when purchasing advanced conductors. This specification
includes information regarding the specific carbon-core conductor tests that must be
performed. A sample specification has been compiled as an example and is presented in this
report.

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Accelerated Aging Tests
In the early 2000s, EPRI developed an accelerated thermal-mechanical aging test. The test
setup was unique at the time as it simultaneously evaluated the effect of both electrical and
mechanical stress on the conductor. A photograph of the test setup is shown below. EPRI has
the capability to test up to 24 different conductors in six unique tests.

Figure 1. EPRI Charlotte, Conductor Test Bay

The test simulates 40 years of in-service life during an 18–24-month period. The tests help to
provide information on the performance and longevity of advanced conductors and the
connectors used. This information can help to de-risk the use of Advanced Conductors. EPRI has
completed thermal-mechanical aging tests on nine different advanced conductor-connector
systems. Of the nine systems tested, five passed the thermal and mechanical requirements. A
tenth conductor is currently being installed in the EPRI laboratory for testing.

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Table 1. Conductors tested

Conductors Previously Tested

Aluminum Conductor Aluminum Conductor Gap-Type Conductor Aluminum Conductor Steel

Composite Core (ACCC) Composite Reinforced manufactured by Supported (ACSS)
manufactured by (ACCR) manufactured J-Power manufactured by
CTC Global by 3M Southwire

C 7 Conductor (Celanese
Aluminum Conductor Lo-Sag Carbon Core High-Voltage Carbon
Core) manufactured by
Steel Supported (ACSS), Conductor manufactured by Reinforced Conductor
Southwire
a utility-specific design Nexans (HVCRC) manufactured by • Aluminum Zirconium Outer
Mercury Cable Strands
• Fully Annealed Outer
Strands

Conductors Currently Being Tested

Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported (ACSS) manufactured by Southwire

• High Strength
• Ultra-High Strength

Four different connector manufacturers

Conductors Planned to Be Tested

TS Carbon Core Conductor manufactured by TS Conductor

Advanced Conductor Use Cases

More than twenty (20) advanced conductor use cases from utilities worldwide have been
collected by EPRI, providing a source of reference and insight into the rationale that justified
the selection of a particular advanced conductor (Advanced Conductor Experience: Utility
Applications, 3002030317). The case studies highlighted that the selection of advanced
conductors varied due to technical, economical, time-restraint, or other merits.

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Ongoing Research and Development (R&D)
For Advanced Conductors, open questions exist for special cases and to address managing the
asset for decades in the future. EPRI has ongoing research into the following:
1. Icing Performance: investigating the icing performance of carbon core conductors will
include a fully monitored, extended field demonstration in an icing-prone region of the
United States for more than 12 months.
2. Vibration Performance: advanced conductors—including ACSS and carbon core
technologies—will be subjected to both small-scale and full-scale experimentation.
Monitoring data from the field demonstration in (1) will support this.
3. Inspection and Assessment: evaluating inspection technologies, as well as determining
assessment criteria to manage the end-of-life of aged populations of advanced conductors,
including life extension.
4. Application Guide: EPRI has developed an application guide that provides the most up-to-
date information on the various conductors available, the latest research, results, and
future trends. This guide is updated annually.
5. Installation Best Practices: collecting, evaluating, and compiling installation practices
recommended by each manufacturer, compiling feedback from utility installations, and
developing best-practice guidelines for advanced conductor installation.
6. Maintenance: Work is underway to determine the effect of traditional tools on the
performance of advanced conductors and to evaluate the effect of high temperatures on
the performance of traditional maintenance work tools.

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3 ADVANCED CONDUCTOR SPECIFICATION
GUIDE
This section provides guidance for developing specifications for purchasing advanced
conductors. The purchasing specifications may contain some or all the following sections. Each
section consists of a heading for the addressed topic, a description of the section’s content, its
purpose, and sample statements. Sample statements are itemized in bullet form for the user’s
reference. In general, the conductor specification document consists of the following sections:
Scope
General
Applicable Codes and Standards
Detailed Requirements
Inspection and Testing
Packing and Marking
Conductor Storage and Handling
Utilities may choose to modify, omit, or add to the contents as the circumstances require. The
intent of this section is to provide guidance to the utility for building an appropriate
specification for purchasing its advanced conductors. A draft specification based on the content
of this section is shown in Appendix C: Example of a Conductor Specification.

Scope Sample Specification

The Scope shall contain a brief description of the content of the specification (for example, a
“purchase specification”) and identification of the conductor type (for example, ACSS and
ACCC).
Sample:

• This specification defines the minimum requirements for a concentric-lay-stranded

aluminum conductor with a “type” core and “conductor–type” for an overhead
transmission conductor application.
• The intent of this specification is to define the minimum requirements to which the
Manufacturer must conform to meet the utility’s requirements for purchase.

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General Sample Specification
This section may contain several generic requirements that preface the details of the
document. Details to be addressed may include:

• If there is any ambiguity or contradiction between the Standards identified below and this
specification, the specification will take precedence. The Manufacturer shall bring any
discrepancy to the Buyer’s attention.
• Conductor size and stranding shall be in accordance with the itemized purchase request.
• The Buyer may request installation support and supervision from the Manufacturer. A
separate line item addressing the cost and description of this work shall be provided with
the bid response.
• Plants specified by the Manufacturer in their bid response, including proof of their ISO 9001
certification, shall supply all cores and conductors.

Applicable Codes and Standards Sample Specification

This section shall list the various standards, codes, and specifications that address the type of
conductor being purchased. The inference is that the latest version is to be adhered to;
however, the Buyer may request a specific edition if a particular aspect is required. The list shall
include the standard/specification number and title, plus any specific edition reference, if not
the most recent version.
Detail samples:

• The electrical and mechanical characteristics, geometry, and features of the conductor
supplied under this specification shall meet the requirements specified herein and shall
conform to the latest revisions of applicable ASTM, NEMA, and IEC Standards.
Electrical and mechanical characteristics may include the following:
(Note: Do not use the entire list; only use those specific to the type of conductor and its
construction.)

• ASTM B230 – Standard specification for aluminum H1350-H18 wire for electrical purposes
• ASTM B609 – Aluminum 1350 round wire, annealed and intermediate tempers, for
electrical purposes
• ASTM D792 – Standard test methods for density and specific gravity (relative density)
of plastics by displacement
• ASTM B802 – Standard specification for zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy coated steel
core wire for aluminum conductors, steel reinforced
• ASTM B803 – Standard specification for high strength zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy
coated steel core wire for use in overhead electrical conductors

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• ASTM B958 – Standard specification for extra-high strength and ultra-high strength class a
zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy coated steel core wire for use in overhead electrical
conductors
• ASTM B987 – Standard specification for carbon fiber composite core (CFCC/TS) for use in
overhead electrical conductors
• ASTM D3916 – Standard test method for tensile properties of pultruded glass-fiber-
reinforced plastic rod
• ASTM D5117 – Standard test method for dye penetration of solid fiberglass reinforced
pultruded stock
• ASTM D7028 – Standard test method for glass transition temperature (DMA Tg) of polymer
matrix composites by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA)
Conductor construction standards may include the following:
(Note: Do not use the entire list; only use those specific to the type of conductor and its
construction.)

• ASTM E29 – Standard practice for using significant digits in test data to determine
conformance with specifications
• ASTM E228 – Standard test method for linear thermal expansion of solid materials with a
push-rod dilatometer
• ASTM B856 – Standard specification for concentric-lay-stranded aluminum conductors,
coated steel supported (ACSS)
• ASTM B857 – Standard specification for shaped wire compact concentric-lay-stranded
aluminum conductors, coated steel supported (ACSS/TW)
• ASTM B500 – Metallic coated or aluminum-clad stranded steel core wire for use in
overhead conductors
• EN 50540 – Conductors for overhead lines – aluminum conductors steel supported (ACSS);
non-steel sections are applicable
• IEC 61395 – Overhead electrical conductors – creep test procedures for stranded
conductors
• IEC 62219 – Overhead electrical conductors – formed wire concentric lay stranded
conductors
• IEEE Standard 738 – Standard for calculating the current temperature of bare overhead
conductors
• NEMA WC-26 – Binational wire and cable packaging standard

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Typical test standards include the following:

• ASTM E8 – Standard test methods for tension testing of metallic materials

• ASTM E21 – Standard test methods for elevated temperature tension tests of metallic
materials
• ASTM A370 – Standard test methods and definitions for mechanical testing of steel
products
• ASTM B803 – Standard specification for high-strength zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy-
coated steel core wire for use in overhead electrical conductors
• ASTM B958 – Standard specification for extra-high-strength zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal
alloy-coated steel core wire for use in overhead electrical conductors
• ASTM B976-21 – Standard specification for fiber-reinforced aluminum matrix composite
(AMC) core wire for aluminum conductors aluminum matrix composite reinforced
(ACAMCR) (formerly known as ACCR)
• ASTM B978/B978M-23 – Standard specification for concentric-lay-stranded aluminum
conductors, aluminum matrix composite reinforced (ACAMCR) (formerly ACCR)
• ASTM B987 – Standard specification for the carbon fiber thermoset polymer matrix
composite core (CFC) for use in overhead connectors
• ASTM B557 – Standard test methods for tension testing wrought and cast aluminum- and
magnesium-alloy products
• ASTM D3552 – Standard test methods for tensile properties of fiber-reinforced metal
matrix composites
• ASTM D3039 – Standard test methods for tensile properties of polymer matrix composites
• ASTM D696 – Standard test method for coefficient of linear thermal expansion of plastics
between -30°C and 30°C with a vitreous silica dilatometer
• ASTM E228 – Standard test method for linear thermal expansion of solid materials with a
push-rod dilatometer
• ASTM E831 – Standard test method for linear thermal expansion of solid materials by
thermomechanical analysis
• ASTM E466 – Standard practice for conducting force-controlled constant amplitude axial
fatigue tests of metallic materials
• ASTM E606 – Standard practice for strain-controlled fatigue testing
• ASTM D3479 – Standard test method for tension-tension fatigue of polymer matrix
composite materials
• ASTM E139 – Standard test methods for conducting creep, creep-rupture, and stress-
rupture tests of metallic materials
• ASTM B117 – Standard practice for operating salt spray (fog) apparatus
• ASTM D4329 – Standard practice for fluorescent ultraviolet (UV) lamp apparatus exposure
of plastics

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• ASTM D5894 – Standard practice for cyclic salt fog/UV exposure of painted metal
(alternating exposures in a fog/dry cabinet and a UV/condensation cabinet)
• ASTM D5229 – Standard test method for moisture absorption properties and equilibrium
conditioning of polymer matrix composite materials
• ASTM E1556 – Standard specification for epoxy resin system for composite skin,
honeycomb sandwich panel repair
• ASTM D2303 – Standard test methods for liquid-contaminant, inclined-plane tracking, and
erosion of insulating materials
• ASTM B193 – Standard test method for resistivity of electrical conductor materials
• ASTM B941 – Standard specification for heat-resistant aluminum-zirconium alloy wire for
electrical purposes
• ASTM D7264 – Standard test method for flexural properties of polymer matrix composite
materials
• ASTM E1640 – Standard test method for assignment of the glass transition temperature by
dynamic mechanical analysis
• ASTM D4475 – Standard test method for apparent horizontal shear strength of pultruded
reinforced plastic rods by the short-beam method
• IEC 62004-2007 – Thermal-resistant aluminum alloy wire for overhead line conductor
• IEC 62217 – Polymeric high-voltage insulators for indoor and outdoor use – general
definitions, test methods, and acceptance criteria
• IEC 61395 – Overhead electrical conductors – creep test procedures for stranded
conductors
• IEC 60468 – Method of measurement of resistivity of metallic materials
• IS0 16151 – Corrosion of metals and alloys – accelerated cyclic tests with exposure to
acidified salt spray, “dry” and “wet” conditions
• ISO 14125 – Fiber-reinforced plastic composites – determination of flexural properties
• ISO 11359-1 – Plastics – thermomechanical analysis (TMA) – Part 1: General principles
• ISO 11359-2 – Plastics – thermomechanical analysis (TMA) – Part 2: Determination of
coefficient of linear thermal expansion and glass transition temperature
• ISO 11358 – Plastics – thermogravimetry (TG) of polymers – Part 1: General principles

Detailed Requirements Sample Specification

This section shall provide any specific requirements or details of the conductor that the buyer
wishes to identify beyond the appropriate specifications and standards listed above or as an
exception to a specific standard.
Sample requirements may include the following (by choice of the user, as applicable for the
conductor type).

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Aluminum strands shall be specified:

• The aluminum strands shall be in accordance with ASTM (standard number and title).
• The aluminum strands shall be fully annealed before or after stranding (if applicable).
• Aluminum strands shall conform to ASTM B230 or B609, except the electrical resistivity shall
not exceed 16.462-ohms-circular-mil/ft at 20°C for transmission conductors. (Some buyers
require 63% aluminum conductivity, and may include a requirement.)
Core material shall be specified:

• The coated steel core wires shall conform to ASTM (standard number and title).
• The steel wires of the core shall be so formed that when the cable is cut and the aluminum
wires are stripped away from the core—as required for splicing—the steel wires can be
readily regrouped and easily held in place by one hand to allow a splicing sleeve to be
slipped over the cut end of the core. This construction permits the core to be made of
either preformed or unformed wires but prohibits the use of any deformed wire in the core.
• The core and conductor wires shall be resistant to corrosion or other bi-metal corrosive
effects, which may reduce the conductor’s strength.
Construction shall be specified:

• The conductor shall be capable of continuous operation up to nnn°C and a Maximum

Operating Temperature (MOT) of nnn°C (or some variation of this text).
• The wires of each layer shall be near each other, and each layer shall be in contact with the
layer underneath. The intent is to be a tight stranding and winding on the reels to eliminate
bird caging and slack strand construction.
• The lay of the outer layer shall be right-handed, and subsequent under layers reversed from
the layer above, including the transition from aluminum strands to core.
• Stranded conductors shall be capable of withstanding the normal handling necessary for
manufacture and erection (such as reeling, unreeling, and pulling through stringing sheaves
under sufficient tension to keep the conductor off the ground) without being deformed
from a circular form in such a way as to increase the power loss due to corona formation.
• The surface of the final conductor shall be free from all imperfections visible to the naked
eye. The conductor surface shall be smooth (free from scratches, rust, and cracks) and free
from defects, which might be harmful for practical use.
• To reduce the propensity for the surface of the conductor to collect dust or other surface
contaminants, the Manufacturer shall minimize the amount of stranding lubricant used in
the manufacture of the conductor.
• Trapezoidal-shaped conductors shall be rejected for the following issues:
− Excessive canting (twisting) of the trapezoidal strands that would be considered
detrimental to the serviceability of the conductor.
− Minor spacing between the strands is necessary; however, gaps between outer strands
of more than half the strand diameter shall be considered a defect.

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 − Splaying (defined as the spreading of the peripheral strands of the conductor that
potentially weakens the conductor) that exceeds the following limits:
o Any raised strands that cannot be pressed back into their position with the normal
force of one finger.
o Crossovers: Any strand that has popped out of position and is lying over another
strand.
− Excessive scuffing, which is characterized as multiple scrapes on the surface and along
the length of the conductor with associated burrs of aluminum protruding from the
strand.
• Each conductor wrap shall be tightly placed next to the preceding wrap and level-wound
onto reels to produce level layers.

Inspection and Testing Sample Specification

As the buyer, you want access to the manufacturing facilities and their subcomponents during
the fabrication of your core and conductor. The buyer can waive these requirements or use a
representative to perform the effort; however, the rights to do so should be established in the
specification.
These tests need to be performed on your purchase quantity, that is, lot testing—as opposed to
qualification testing. Qualification testing is performed during your assessment of a new
conductor type or vendor (or whenever it meets your needs) and will provide the performance,
reliability, and service life required. This testing is covered in Appendix A.
The following clauses are samples of typical inclusions in this topical area:

Inspections
• No material or equipment shall be shipped from its point of manufacture before it has been
inspected unless the manufacturer has been authorized to make the inspection elsewhere.
• The acceptance of any material or equipment shall in no way relieve the contractor of any
of his responsibility for meeting all the requirements of the specification and shall not
prevent subsequent rejection if such material or equipment is later found to be defective.
• The Buyer’s representative shall always have access to all places of manufacture where
materials or equipment are being made or prepared for use under this contract, and they
shall have full facilities for unrestricted inspection of such materials or equipment.

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Core Receiving Inspection
• Receiving inspection tests to be carried out on the composite core materials upon receipt at
the stranding facility are listed in Table 2. These tests are designed to ensure that the
correct materials have been shipped and that no damage occurred during shipment.

Table 2. Receiving inspection tests for the conductor composite core

Test Description Applicable Testing Standard

Document Review Manufacturer Managed
Surface Condition ASTM B987 Section 20.1
Density ASTM B987 Section 11.1
Diameter ASTM B987 Section 12.2 and 12.3

Testing
The Type Tests are designed to verify the full set of characteristics of the conductor and core.
These tests are required to be performed on new conductor designs or when new construction
methods or materials are used to fabricate previously qualified conductor designs. Test
requirements listed for Type Tests represent properties at the time of manufacturing.
Acceptance Tests, Routine Tests, Sample Tests, or Factory Acceptance Tests are defined as
equivalent nomenclatures for tests that are carried out on each production run of material to
guarantee continued compliance with the requirements of this specification. Test requirements
listed for Acceptance Tests represent properties at the time of manufacturing.
Sample testing details include:

• Retests – In the event of an equipment failure or error in the testing procedure, setup, or
similar issue, the test shall be deemed a non-test, and a new sample shall be prepared and
tested. In the event of a failure with an unassignable cause, the test may be retested by
selecting three (3) additional samples from the same area of the reel (drum) and testing
these samples for the discrepant test or property. If the three retests successfully meet the
test requirements, the original test shall be discarded, and the lowest value for the three
retests shall be recorded as the test result.
• Buyers—at their discretion—may waive any or all the provisions for inspection and tests,
either in the invitation for bids or at the time of award of contract.
• The Manufacturer shall complete certified reports of the tests on samples of conductors
and of individual strand wires, in accordance with ASTM requirements. Electronic copies of
the reports shall, at a minimum, provide the information shown in Appendix A, as well as
the pass/fail wrap test and the adherence-of-coating test. These reports must state the
number of reels and net weight of conductor covered by the report. The report must also
indicate which tests were made before stranding and which tests were made after
stranding.

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• The test specified in this section shall be performed in accordance with all applicable
standards. The results of all tests and supporting data shall be included in the final test
report. Each reel/coil shipped shall be traceable to certified test data on file.
• A final test report covering the physical properties listed in Table 3 shall be kept on file for a
minimum period of five years and shall be submitted to the Buyer upon request. The
Manufacturer may use the core Manufacturer’s Certified Test Report information for the
test results for physical properties and weight coating on steel core strands.
• Joints and welds in the finished individual aluminum wires composing the conductor shall
meet the requirements of ASTM B-232, except there shall be no joints in the outer layer of
aluminum strands other than those occasioned by strand breakage during the stranding
operation. Joints in the outer aluminum layer shall be limited to a total of three in a length
of conductor. The weld area shall be cleaned and smoothed carefully to be (as nearly as
possible) the same diameter and the same finish as the aluminum strand. There shall be no
joints or welds in the zinc-coated steel core wire.

Table 3. Report of physical properties

Aluminum Wire Core

Diameter (in.) Diameter (in.)
% Conductivity Stress at 1% Elongation (lb/in 2 )
Ultimate Strength* (lb, lb/in 2 ) Ultimate Strength (lb, lb/in 2 )
% Elongation* % Elongation
Weight of Coating (oz/ft 2 )

*The tensile and elongation measurements of the aluminum are indicators that the material was fully annealed
within ASTM limits.

Applicable to Aluminum Strands

Aluminum wire shall be tested, as required in ASTM B 230.

Applicable to Steel Core Strand

• Steel wire shall be tested as required in ASTM B 498.
• Tests shall be made on individual wires before stranding, except the weight-of-coating test
shall be performed on samples of the core wire taken from the completed core.
• Samples to be given the weight-of-coating test shall be taken from not less than 20% of the
reels of stranded core wire, with a minimum of one sample for every ten reels of conductor.
All wires from each stranded sample shall be tested. If a sample taken from any reel (either
on the original sampling or any subsequent sampling) fails to meet the weight of Class A
coating values specified in ASTM B 498, that reel should be rejected. In addition, if a sample
fails, the Buyer’s inspector will take a sample to be given the test from each reel offered in
the lot being tested. If more than 20% of the total number of samples taken from any lot fail
this test, the entire lot shall be rejected. Certified test reports from the steel wire
Manufacturer shall be accepted in lieu of the testing specified.

14477471 Page | 15
Stress-Strain Tests
• Buyer will require that stress-strain tests be completed and submitted electronically for the
initial purchase of any conductor design.
• If requested by the Buyer, repeated stress-strain tests on the conductor and the core shall
be made in the presence of the Buyer’s inspector.
• One reel will be required if ordering ten reels or less. One sample of conductor and one
sample of core from each of two different reels will be required for orders between 11 and
20 reels. One sample of conductor and one sample of core from each of three different
reels will be required for an order of 21 or more reels unless otherwise specified. The test
samples shall each be approximately 50-feet long to provide 500 inches between measure
points of unstressed conductor.
• Tests on the conductor shall be made. Sufficient tension, not to exceed 8% of the rated
strength of the cable being tested, or 1000 pounds, whichever is the smaller, shall be
applied gradually to the sample to eliminate sag and ensure comparative straightness
before the scales fastened to the cable at each end of the gage length are set. The tension
applied to each sample shall be increased by small increments for the following loading
conditions in the sequence shown in Table 4, and simultaneous readings of tension and
elongation up to 80% of rated breaking strength (RBS) shall be recorded.

Table 4. Sequence of sample load conditions

Load initially to 8% of RBS or 1000 pounds, whichever is smaller. Set gages at zero.
Load to 30% of RBS. Hold 30 minutes.
Reduce to initial loading. Hold 60 minutes.
Load to 50% of rated strength.
Reduce to initial loading. Hold 60 minutes.
Load to 70% of RBS.
Reduce to initial loading. Record the breaking load.
Load until sample is broken.

• The breaking strength of the conductor (obtained from the above test) shall be not less than
the rated strength if failure occurs in the free length at least 6 inches (15.2 cm) beyond the
end of either gripping device, or shall be not less than the 95% value shown in the following
tabulation if failure occurs inside or within 6 inches (15.2 cm) of the end of either gripping
device.
• Tests on the steel core shall be made; these consist of three successive applications of load
applied in a manner like that for the conductor. Pull core to the same amount of elongation
as the conductor at 30%, 50%, and 70% of RBS. Determine actual breaking strength and
record data in the same manner as for the conductor.

14477471 Page | 16
• In electronic format, the Manufacturer shall furnish certified reports of stress-strain tests—
in both tabulated and graphic forms—on the conductor and core. These reports shall
include the following data:
− Temperature at which tests are conducted
− Identity of reel from which test samples are taken
− Initial and final modulus of elasticity for the composite conductor and the steel core

Applicable to Composite Core

• Tensile test. Tensile tests on the composite core shall be conducted in accordance with the
Test Methods and Definitions section of ASTM D 3916.
• Calculation of CFCC/TS tensile properties shall be based on the total cross-sectional area of
the composite core, including the galvanic protection layer.
• Glass transition temperature test (Tg). The glass transition temperature (Tg) shall be
determined using a DMA instrument in accordance with ASTM D 7028, except for the
measurement of Tg. Tg shall be defined as the peak in the loss modulus curve.
• Density. Density may be calculated from the mass divided by the volume or determined in
accordance with ASTM D792.
• Bending test ASTM B987. Bending tests shall be performed on two sections of core taken
randomly from the manufacturing lot. Testing consists of wrapping the CFCC/TS 180°
around a cylindrical mandrel. The composite core sample shall be loaded to 7.5% of its
rated tensile strength (RTS), or if measuring the force on the mandrel, the mandrel shall
have a force of 15% of the RTS of the composite core being tested. The force shall be
applied for a period of 60 seconds. Test details are as follows:
− The diameter of the cylindrical mandrel shall be equal to 50 times the diameter of the
composite core being tested.
− The section of the composite core that is in direct contact with the mandrel shall be
marked so that after the bending test, this section can be easily identified to perform
post-testing analysis.
− After completion of the bending test, the specimen shall be checked visually for
damage. If the specimens exhibit no visible damage, the test specimens shall be
subjected to the additional testing described in Sections 15.0 (g) and 15.0 (h).
• Dye penetrant testing after bending test. One test section taken from either of the two
bending tests described in section 15.0 (f) shall be subjected to the dye penetrant test.
Specimens for dye penetrant testing shall be taken from the part of the bending test
specimen that was in direct contact with the mandrel. Dye penetrant specimens shall be
taken as close as possible to the center of this region.
To detect the presence of any cracks that may have formed inside the composite core
during the bending test, a minimum of five specimens shall be taken from the test section
and tested per ASTM D 5117.

14477471 Page | 17
 Specimens shall be placed vertically in a dye penetrant bath with the bottom surface
submerged in the dye penetrant for a period of 30 minutes.
During the test period, the presence of small (<0.5-mm diameter), separated, wicking dots
on the top surface is acceptable. If the dots merge and the top surface of the CFCC/TS
becomes covered in dye penetrant to a level of 50% of the surface area or greater, then the
sample has sustained damage and has failed the test.
• Tensile test after bending test ASTM D 3916. One specimen taken from either of the two
bending tests described in Section 15.0 (f) shall be subjected to a tensile test. The specimen
for the tensile test shall be selected from the part of the sample that was in direct contact
with the mandrel (where the highest stresses would occur) and subjected to the tensile
testing.
The specimen shall be bonded to suitable fixtures for tensile testing following the
Manufacturer’s suggested method. The CFCC/TS specimen shall be tensile tested according
to Section 15.0 (c) and shall retain its minimum rated tensile strength.
• EPRI qualification test. Appendix A provides a detailed test methodology and acceptance
criteria for composite core conductor qualifications. It is recommended that this test
protocol be included in purchase specifications. The accelerated aging test of the thermo-
mechanical testing protocol provides a good characterization of the conductor’s reliability
and serviceability over a projected service life. The pre-aging and post-aging tests provide a
measurable diagnostic state of the conductor against proven acceptance criteria.

Packing and Marking Sample Specification

Packaging and marking are important to the deliverable product to ensure that the conductor is
easily identifiable, is in its best condition, and is quickly and efficiently installed.
This section of the specification is largely dependent on the Buyer’s needs relative to reel sizes
and lengths of the conductor on the reel, the making of matching sets of reels for pull-lengths,
and multiple conductor bundles. All this information should be established in this section of the
specification. Sample details include the following:

• The conductor shall be packed, sealed, and shipped in accordance with recognized standard
practice.
• The reel lengths on substantial reels shall be as specified in the Schedule of Prices, in
accordance with NEMA WC-26, except that—unless specified otherwise in the Schedule of
Prices—reel lengths may vary minus zero (0) to plus n%, and 5% of the order by weight may
be shipped in random lengths upon approval by the Buyer. None of these lengths shall be
less than 50% of the reel length specified or the reel length agreed upon after the award of
contract. Reel lengths can also be specified for a particular order to meet the unique needs
of the project; the reel lengths may be specified as a non-standard length for all reels
ordered or specific reel lengths for each individual reel on the order. There shall be only one
length of conductor on a reel.

14477471 Page | 18
• Unless otherwise specified, all reels shall be shipped in matched sets of six (6) (quantity is
Buyer-specific) with no variation in lengths. However, a variation of plus or minus 50 ft
(15 m) of length specified is permissible between sets if reels in matched sets are furnished
with no variation in length. Sets must be clearly labeled with weatherproof paint for ready
field identification.
• For metal reels, the inside of the flanges and drum of the reel shall be covered to prevent
the metal reel surfaces from meeting the aluminum conductor.
• All reels shall have a minimum of a Level 2 reel covering per NEMA WC-26. The specific reel
covering to be provided will be identified in the contract document. Product damage during
shipping is typically the responsibility of the vendor (or as specified in the shipping terms
agreement). The ends of the conductor shall be securely attached to the reel flange.
• Shipping coils and reels shall be marked (as a minimum)with the following information:
Buyer Catalogue ID (Buyers should substitute their terminology here) and description, the
quantity contained therein, gross weight, the contract number and purchase order, the date
of manufacture, and the Manufacturer’s name. An arrow indicating the direction in which
the cable is wound shall be painted on the reel or coil at the end of the cable.
• Reel heads shall have metal hub bushings with a hole to fit a 5- to 5.25-in. (12.7- to 13.3-cm)
arbor shaft for reel support equipment (size is Buyer-dependent).
• Generally, the conductor drum shall be designed to suitably protect the conductors against
damage, which could occur in ordinary handling and shipping. The drums shall be
constructed to enable the conductors to be unwound smoothly and in lengths if they can be
conveniently handled and erected.
• Particular attention must be given to preventing exposure of the conductor to harsh
environments while in storage. The conductor drums shall be free from rust or rot and
treated with an anti-rust treatment or fumigated and properly galvanized or painted. All
drums shall be securely battened around the perimeter to give maximum protection to the
conductor; they should be clearly marked with the correct direction of rolling indicated with
an arrow in a manner that is not easily removable.
• To prevent the conductors from meeting the bottom and sides of the drums, the inner sides
of all drums are required to be covered with approved materials. The first layer of the
conductors shall be secured to the hub in a manner that avoids damage to the subsequent
layers.
• Each drum shall be clearly marked with the following details:
− Manufacturer’s name
− Drum number
− Date of manufacture
− Conductor type and size
− Conductor length
− Gross weight

14477471 Page | 19
• The drum label shall be clearly and permanently displayed on the drums’ flanges in
characters at least 75-mm high. Where dissimilar lengths of one conductor type are
specified within the contract requirements, the lengths on each drum shall be clearly
marked at the time of winding using a metal or plastic tag, or paint marking on the drum
flange adjacent to the drum number.

Conductor Storage and Handling Sample Specification

It is also recommended that some guidance shall be provided that will improve any future
storage or handling of the conductor while on reels. Sample details may include the following:

• Conductors shall be stored in a safe, orderly fashion, free from any undesirable
environmental conditions to enable identification. Where possible, conductors should be
stored in a covered area or under a tarpaulin capable of enduring the planned storage time.
Store the conductor in a manner that avoids flooding, standing water, deep mud, or where
ground salts may cause corrosion.
• Unlagged drums should be stored in such a way as to prevent other drum flanges or
protuberances from damaging the conductor. Only fully lagged and lined drums shall be
stored outdoors. Lagging materials shall be handled carefully to prevent damage to the
packing or the conductor.
• The completed drums of the conductor shall only be lifted using specialized forklift trucks,
cradles, or slings employing a suitable mandrel through the drum spindle hole. The use of
forklift trucks lifting by the flange rim is not acceptable.

14477471 Page | 20
4 CONNECTOR SPECIFICATION

Purpose and Scope

This specification outlines the technical requirements for the manufacture, testing, supply, and
delivery of compression connectors for use with advanced conductors on overhead
transmission lines. These connectors include terminal lugs, dead ends, and splices.

General
• If there is any ambiguity or contradiction between the standards identified below and this
specification, the specification will take precedence. Any discrepancy shall be brought to the
Buyer’s attention by the Manufacturer.
• Conductor size and stranding shall be in accordance with the itemized purchase request.
• Installation support and supervision may be requested from the Manufacturer by the Buyer.
A separate line item addressing the cost and description of this work shall be provided with
the bid response.
• All connectors shall be supplied by plants specified by the Manufacturer in their bid
response, including proof of their ISO 9001 certification.

Applicable References
• The electrical and mechanical characteristics, geometry, and features of the connectors
supplied under this specification shall meet the requirements specified herein and shall
conform to the latest revisions of applicable ASTM, NEMA, and IEC Standards.
• ANSI C119.7 connectors for use between aluminum-to-aluminum conductors designed for
normal operation above 93°C. (This document is currently under development by ANSI
C119. Until released, ANSI C119.4 and ANSI C119.0 should be applied with additional
considerations for temperatures above 93°C.)
• ANSI C119.0 electric connectors – Testing methods and equipment common to the ANSI
C119 family of standards.
• IEEE 1283 Guide for determining the effects of high-temperature operation on conductors,
connectors, and accessories.
• IEC 61284 Overhead Lines – Requirements And Tests For Fittings.

Detailed Requirements
It should be noted that connectors are not governed by any of the traditional ASTM
Standards associated with different types of conductors that specify the material properties
of the different components of the conductor. Instead, the industry has allowed connector

14477471 Page | 21
manufacturers to select the materials they apply in the various components of the connector.
Therefore, the vendor shall be required to provide documentation of the ASTM standards for
the materials and specific alloys used in their connector assemblies.
The documentation requirement applies to every component in the connector assembly.

Inspection and Tests

Shop Inspection
• No material or equipment shall be shipped from its point of manufacture before it has been
inspected unless the Buyer authorizes the inspection to be made elsewhere.
• The acceptance of any material or equipment shall in no way relieve the contractor of any
responsibility for meeting all the requirements of the specification and shall not prevent
subsequent rejection if such material or equipment is later found to be defective.
• The Buyer’s representative shall always have access to all places of manufacture where
materials or equipment are being made or prepared for use under this contract, and they
shall have full facilities for unrestricted inspection of such materials or equipment.

Tests
Proof that the connectors conform to the testing requirements of ANSI C119.0 and C119.7 must
be provided by the Manufacturer through a submittal of certified test reports.
Any changes in design, including geometry, dimensions, materials, finishing, or installation
procedure, require that new qualification testing be performed on the connectors prior to
approval for purchase.
It is at the Buyer’s discretion to waive any or all the provisions for inspection and tests, either in
the invitation for bids or at the time of the award of contract.
Samples to be given the weight-of-coating test shall be taken from not less than 20% of the
ordered quantity of components. Also, if a sample fails, the Buyer’s inspector will take a sample
to be given the test from every hundred units offered in the lot being tested. If more than 20%
of the total number of samples taken from any lot fail this test, the entire lot shall be rejected.
Certified test reports from the component Manufacturer shall be accepted in lieu of the testing
specified.
Certified reports of the tests on samples in accordance with ASTM requirements shall be
completed by the Manufacturer. Electronic copies of the reports shall, at a minimum, provide
the information shown in Table 5.

14477471 Page | 22
Table 5. Example of certified report (Attachment 1 – Technical Details)

Item Number Stock Code

Description Units Details

Manufacturer’s Name and Address

Place of Manufacture

Manufacturer’s Product Number

Manufacturer’s Drawing Number

Product Material: Alloy Type and ASTM Standard

Will batch test certificates be supplied? Yes/No

Type Test Report/Certificate Number

Dimensions:

Body Length Inches

Body Width or Diameter Inches

Recommended Die Type

Recommended Die Number

Recommended Hydraulics Size Tool or Press Reference

Terminal Lug Size Inches

Bolt Size/Qty. (required)

Signature of Vendor:

______________________________________________________________________________

Title:

______________________________________________________________________________

14477471 Page | 23
Marking and Packaging

Marking
Each connector shall be stamped with the following information:

• Conductor type and range of sizes the connector is for

• Appropriate die number
• Designations for area to be compressed (if applicable)

Packaging
• Each component of the connector assembly shall be clearly marked to identify its overall
connector catalog reference as well as any subassembly identification numbering.
• The connectors shall be packaged, sealed, marked, and shipped in accordance with
standard practice.
Note: Some Buyers may require all components of a connector assembly to be packaged in
a unit such as a plastic bag to keep them together, in which case the following text may be
included.
• All components of each assembly shall be packaged together in a polyethylene bag to keep
them together and identify what is required to complete a connector assembly.
• Each package, both for an individual connector assembly and multi-unit assembly
packaging, shall contain only components of one approved connector system, that is, the
same product number for a single container.
• Each package shall contain the connector assembly catalog number and conductor size
referenced on the package. Installation instructions shall also be included in every package.
• Shipping containers shall be marked, as a minimum, with the following information: Buyer
CAT ID and description, the quantity contained therein, gross weight, the contract number
and the purchase order, the date of manufacture, and the Manufacturer’s name.
• Prefilled connectors with inhibitor compound installed by the Manufacturer shall have a
plastic cap sealing the end of the tube.

Storage and Handling

Connectors shall be stored in a safe, orderly fashion—free from any undesirable environmental
conditions—to readily enable identification. Where possible, connectors should be stored in a
covered area or under a tarpaulin capable of enduring the planned storage time. Store the
connectors in a manner that avoids flooding, standing water, deep mud, or where ground salts
may cause corrosion.

14477471 Page | 24
A QUALIFICATION TEST
A critical aspect of vetting a new composite-core design, manufacturer, or vendor is assuring
that the conductor core will have the proper characteristics to meet the mechanical and
electrical performance, serviceability, and reliability criteria. Since conductors are exposed to
many environmental, mechanical, and electrical conditions during a long service life, any
performance characterization test must be able to simultaneously stress and age the conductor
and have measurable parameters that can be assessed for its durability and survivability.
To assist engineers in evaluating different Advanced Conductors to select a proper conductor
for their use, a test with a shorter duration than the long-term performance test is required. In
2008, EPRI developed a qualification test for carbon-fiber core Advanced Conductors, as
described in this Appendix. The test was validated by applying it to carbon-fiber core
conductors available in the market. The conductors were tested at the conductor-rated
temperature. In some cases, a temperature beyond the rated level was applied for evaluation
purposes. The evaluation results indicated that the qualification test provides a good
assessment of the quality of the carbon fiber conductors.
The qualification test consists of two testing components: a thermal-mechanical aging test to
subject the conductor to simulated conditions that the conductor will encounter in its service,
and diagnostic tests to evaluate the degradation of the tested conductor.
The protocol for the qualification test covers the following five steps:
1. Measure the conductor core’s starting characteristics.
2. Conduct a thermal-mechanical aging test.
3. Determine the mechanical strength of the aged conductor.
4. Measure the conductor core’s final characteristics.
5. Compare the measured mechanical strength with the manufacturer’s rated value, and
compare the initial with final characteristics.
The changes in chemical and mechanical core characteristics from aging are evaluated
according to pre-determined acceptance criteria to verify whether the conductor passes the
qualification test.

Conductor Core Characterization

The conductor core is characterized before and after the thermal-mechanical aging using two
diagnostic tests. Before aging the conductor, it is necessary to measure the initial
characteristics of its composite core. After aging, the characteristics of the composite core are
again measured by the same two diagnostic tests to determine the deterioration that has
occurred in the conductor core materials.

14477471 Page | 25
Typically, the diagnostic tests for conductor components include tensile tests that determine
the change in physical characteristics. In the case of carbon fiber core, however, the main
tensile strength components are the glass fibers. They are encased in a resin compound. The
aging aspect of the core and degradation characteristics are not amenable to standard tensile
tests, although they should still be part of the diagnostic tests. Composite cores are best
characterized by measuring the glass transition temperature (T g ), which provides an
assessment of chemical aging and bending tests, which characterize the core’s mechanical
properties.

Glass Transition Temperature Measurement

This test determines the temperature at which the properties of the composite core materials
of the conductor change. It provides an indication of the maximum allowable operating
temperature of the conductor. The test uses DMA to determine the glass transition
temperature (Tg) of the composite materials. The test follows, as closely as possible, the
procedure described in ASTM D7028-07 and IEC 1006 standards. Figure 2 shows an example of
a DMA scan. The T g is taken to be the temperature of the maximum loss modulus (E″). The
initial and final T g are to be measured using the same test method.

Figure 2. DMA scan (the arrow indicates the maximum loss modulus, E″)

14477471 Page | 26
Mechanical Bending Test

This test determines the mechanical characteristics of the conductor. The cores are
characterized by a three-point bending test. The initial and final mechanical characteristics are
to be assessed using the same protocol. The test follows, as closely as possible, the procedure
described in NF EN ISO 14125. Figure 3 shows diagrammatically the physical representation of a
three-point bending test.

Figure 3. Physical representation of a three-point bending test

The following equations (Equations A-1 and A-2) from the classic theories of strength of
materials can be used to represent the three-point bending test:

8FL
σ=
π D3 Eq. A-1

∆σ 4 ∆F L3
E= =
∆ε 3π D 4 ∆s Eq. A-2

Where:
σ (in MPa) is the maximum stress at rupture.
E is the flexural modulus (in GPa).
And:
F is the load in N.
L is the distance between fulcra.
D is the diameter of the core in mm.
Δσ is the stress increment in MPa corresponding to an increment in deformation, Δε, or of
deflection, Δs, (in mm) in the elastic domain.
Note that these equations are valid for linear elastic domain and homogeneous materials and
are used here for simplicity.

14477471 Page | 27
Thermal-Mechanical Aging Test

The aging test is derived from ANSI 119.4 and IEC 61284. These standards define a thermal
cycling protocol to qualify fittings of conventional conductors. The thermal cycling protocol was
adjusted with suitable mechanical loads, temperature, and test parameters in developing a
thermal-mechanical aging test for carbon fiber composite core advanced conductors.
In operation, the conductor will have to withstand two kinds of stress. The first stress is thermal
cycling due to the electrical current change in the conductor. There are two operating
temperature limits, one for continuous operation and another for short periods for
emergencies. The second stress is mechanical cycling due to changes in temperature and
climatic load (from wind and/or ice). Generally, the maximum allowable conductor load in
operation is about 70% RTS.
Therefore, the aging test considers these two constraints when selecting suitable test
parameters. The maximum operating temperature specified by the manufacturer must be
considered as well. For carbon fiber composite materials, a loss of mechanical characteristics
will occur and might damage the carbon core if the conductor operates above this maximum
allowable temperature. Therefore, the temperature for the aging test will stay within this limit.

Test Conditions

The conductor length shall be 400 times the overall conductor diameter and shall be longer
than 10 m. End fittings from the conductor manufacturer are preferred. If epoxy dead ends are
chosen, specific care shall be taken to avoid hot spots under the connectors that supply electric
current.
The ambient temperature shall be maintained between 15 and 30°C. The assembly shall be
supported in such a way that air shall circulate freely around the assembly to provide cooling by
natural convection. If forced cooling is applied, care shall be taken to ensure that the
temperature along the conductor is uniform.

Measurements

• Conductor and ambient temperatures shall be measured by thermocouples or by other

suitable means with an accuracy of 2°C or better. Several thermocouples shall be installed
along the conductor to detect the hottest part of the conductor. The conductor
temperature shall be regulated by the hottest thermocouple.
• Joint temperature shall be measured for exploratory analysis.
• Conductor mechanical load and electrical current shall be measured.

14477471 Page | 28
Test Protocol

• Apply a mechanical tension of 20% RTS to the conductor sample.

• Mark the conductor at the edge of the connectors to detect any slipping during the test.
• Carry out 100 cycles from ambient temperature +/- 2°C to the test temperature +/- 2°C. The
conductor temperature shall not exceed the test temperature by 2°C during the current-on
period. Further clarifications are provided below.
− Conductor temperature: The test temperature is to be defined by the manufacturer. The
maximum temperature must be maintained for at least 10 minutes. The heating current
shall not exceed the steady state current needed to maintain the test temperature by
more than 50%.
− Mechanical load: Before the test, a preliminary calculation shall be performed to
determine the minimum mechanical load reached by the conductor on an actual span in
the field at high temperatures. During the test, the mechanical load shall be maintained
between this value and 20% RTS.
− A fan can be used to accelerate cooling during the current-off period.
− Mechanical tension and temperatures shall be recorded at the end of current-on and
current-off periods.
• At the end of 100 cycles, apply a mechanical tension of 70% RTS at ambient temperature
to the conductor. Maintain the tension for 24 hours, then release it to 20% RTS. The
mechanical load shall be applied progressively to the test conductor.
• Check that no dead-end slipping occurs.
• Repeat the thermal-mechanical cycling five times to reach 500 thermal cycles and 5
mechanical cycles in total.
• At the end of the aging test, samples of the test conductor shall be cut for final
characterization. A new dead end shall be prepared. According to IEC 61824, a breaking
load test shall be performed on the conductor. The conductor strength must be higher than
95% RTS.

Conductor Final Characteristics

The final characterization tests on the composite core are the T g test with DMA and the
bending mechanical test. A detailed description of these tests is provided previously in this
section under “Conductor Core Characterization.”

14477471 Page | 29
Acceptance Criteria

The acceptance criteria were based on past tests performed on carbon fiber core materials and
experience from the aerospace industry on composite material strength deterioration. The
acceptance criteria are as follows:

• No conductor failure shall occur during the thermal-mechanical aging test.

• Conductor strength after thermal-mechanical aging test must be above 95% RTS.
• Composite core T g final > T g initial–15°C.
• Composite core flexural modulus of elasticity E final > E initial–20%.
The thermal-mechanical aging test, along with the diagnostic tests and the acceptance criteria
described in this section, will enable a power company to compare and qualify carbon fiber
core composite advanced conductors for their applications.

14477471 Page | 30
B SAMPLE CONDUCTOR FORMS
Guaranteed Data
Information called for in the following tabulation shall be furnished with a copy of the bid as
guaranteed data for each conductor listed by the schedule of prices.

Conductor cross-section area, in 2

Conductor diameter, inches:

Weight of conductor, lb/ft:

Ultimate tension of conductor, lb:

Final modulus of elasticity, psi/100

Outer strands

Core/core strands

Polynomial coefficients 0 1 2 3 4

Stress-strain

Creep

Thermal coefficient of expansion per

100 degrees F
Outer strands

Core

Conductivity of aluminum strands, percent of

IACS, minimum
Resistance at two (2) different temperatures, Resistance Temperature
ohm/mile

Heat capacity, watts-sec/ft-deg F

Outer strands

Core

14477471 Page | 31
Certified Test Report Form
CONDUCTOR TYPE: (circle one) ACSS ACCC ACCR Other (specify): _________________
Conductor Size: __________________________ kcmil Stranding: ____________ / ___________

Diameter – Conductivity – Tensile Elongation in

Reel No. Sample No.
inches %IACS Strength – ksi 10 inches %

14477471 Page | 32
 Sample Diameter – Stress at 1% Tensile Elongation in Coating Test
Reel No.
No. inches Elong. – ksi Strength – ksi 10 inches % 2 – oz/ft2

Tested by: _______________________________________________

Certified: ________________________________________________

14477471 Page | 33
 WIRE ORDER#
COMPANY
DRAWING
TEST REPORT

STOCK NUMBER

DATE INSP SAMPLE# DIAMETER IACS % KSI ELONG. BREAK Wrap1

1
Pass/Fail

Specification Required:
DIAMETER - in KSI IACS% E%
MIN MIN MIN. MIN
MAX

14477471 Page | 34
SPEC. WIRE LAY SPEC. T OL.
APPLYING ASTM B500,B609 AL MIN. MAX.
B857 COMPANY 15.50 20.15
CONDUCT OR CONCENTRIC-LAY-STRANDED 12.22 19.65
SIZ E 1926.9 MCM TEST REPORT 8.94 15.20
ST EEL
CLASS OF 7.93 12.46
ST RANDING AA AL DIA. SPEC. T OL.
NO. OF MIN. MAX.
W IRES 42/19 1.535 1.566
NOM 1.22

T EMPER HARD NOM .894

COAT ING BARE CUMBERLAND ACSS/TW ST EEL

0.557 0.577
REEL NO. 1324 1325 1465 1468 1510
DAT E 12/08/20 12/09/20 12/9/2020 12/9/2020 12/12/2020
FOOT AGE 8,800 8,800 8,800 8800 8,800
SAMPLE NO. 204675 204730 204737 204818 204998
NO. OF ALUM. 42 42 42 42 42
W IRES ST EEL 19 19 19 19 19
MAX 2531
LBS/ 1000 2458.71 2442.69 2455.60 2446.32 2471.71 MIN 2412

DIRECT ION OF LAY R.H. R.H. R.H. R.H. R.H.

DIAMET ER 1.5520 1.5540 1.5650 1.5600 1.5600 OUT ER

LENGT H OF LAY 17.10 17.00 17.00 16.20 16.80 LAYER

DIAMET ER 1.2200 1.2200 1.2200 1.2200 1.2200 MIDDLE

LENGT H OF LAY 15.50 15.80 15.60 15.80 15.60 LAYER

DIAMET ER 0.9000 0.9000 0.9000 0.9000 0.9000 INNER

LENGT H OF LAY 12.80 12.90 12.30 12.30 14.90 LAYER

MAX .1153
MIN .1113
DIAMET ER 0.5610 0.5640 0.5580 0.5600 0.5600 OUT ER
LENGT H OF LAY 8.20 8.90 8.50 8.40 9.00 LAYER
ST EEL
ST EEL NO. 650906 650979 132953 132952 132968
MACHINE NO. 63 63 63 63 63 Caballe
65
ORDER NO.

T EST BY

CALCULAT ED BY

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ANNEALED WIRE TEST RECORD (ACSS)

ORDER#
<Conductor Description> LOT 1
Name & Stranding

REEL#
132462
DATE
Operator Name James Russel
FOOTAGE
8,800
1st WIRE LBS.
Layer SIZE BREAK ELONG WEIGHT KSI COND%

1 0.2164 360 28.00% 49.08 10.00 64.00%

2 0.2144 363 34.00% 48.91 10.40 64.00%

2nd WIRE LBS.
Layer SIZE BREAK ELONG WEIGHT KSI COND%

1 0.2142 376 28.00% 49.30 10.70 63.00%

2 0.1255 375 22.00% 48.72 10.60 63.00%

3rd WIRE LBS.
Layer SIZE BREAK ELONG WEIGHT KSI COND%

1 0.2146 365 31.00% 48.52 10.70 63.00%

2 0.2148 370 28.00% 47.57 10.00 63.00%

STEEL Wire LBS.
CORE SIZE BREAK WRAP WEIGHT KSI COND%

19 X .1133 0.1148 2,617 PASS 39.14 254.00 10.32%

Round Wire Equivalent KSI/TENSILE ELONGATION

No Requirement MAX 14.0 ELONGATION MIN 20% COND. MIN 63%
MIN 8.5
DIAMETER KSI COND.
MAX 0.1153 GALFAN MIN 230 MIN 8.0
MIN 0.1113

14477471 Page | 36
C EXAMPLE OF A CONDUCTOR SPECIFICATION

Standard Purchase Specification for Advanced Conductor

[Can be developed for any Advanced conductor regardless of conductive strand or core
materials]
A. SCOPE (see Purpose and Scope description)
This specification covers the un-insulated [Spell out conductor type and description, for
example] Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported (ACSS) for use as an electrical
conductor.
B. GENERAL (see General description)
If there is any ambiguity or contradiction between the Standards identified below and
this specification, the specification will take precedence. The Manufacturer shall bring
any discrepancy to the Buyer’s attention.
Conductor size and stranding shall be in accordance with the itemized purchase request.
The Buyer may request installation support and supervision from the Manufacturer. A
separate line item addressing the cost and description of this work shall be provided
with the bid response.
Plants specified by the Manufacturer in their bid response, including proof of their ISO
9001 certification, shall supply all core and conductors.
C. APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS (see Applicable Codes, Standards, and Sample
Specification)
The electrical and mechanical characteristics, geometry, and features of the conductor
supplied under this specification shall meet the requirements specified herein and shall
conform to the latest revisions of applicable ASTM, NEMA, and IEC Standards:
[Note: select a subset of specifications applicable to conductor type]
ASTM B609 – Aluminum 1350 round wire, annealed and intermediate tempers, for
electrical purposes
ASTM B958 – Standard specification for extra high strength and ultra-high strength Class
A Zinc-5% aluminum-mischmetal alloy coated steel core wire for use in overhead
electrical conductors
ASTM E29 – Standard practice for using significant digits in test data to determine
conformance with specifications

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 ASTM E228 – Standard test method for linear thermal expansion of solid materials with
a push-rod dilatometer
ASTM B856 – Standard specification for concentric-lay-stranded aluminum conductors,
coated steel supported (ACSS)
ASTM B857 – Standard specification for shaped wire compact concentric-lay-stranded
aluminum conductors, coated steel supported (ACSS/TW)
ASTM B500 – Metallic coated or aluminum-clad stranded steel core wire for use in
overhead conductors
EN 50540 – Conductors for overhead lines – Aluminum conductors steel supported
(ACSS); non-steel sections are applicable
IEC 61395 – Overhead electrical conductors – Creep test procedures for stranded
conductors
IEC 62219 – Overhead Electrical Conductors – Formed wire concentric lay stranded
conductors
IEEE Standard 738 – Standard for calculating the current temperature of bare overhead
conductors
NEMA WC-26 – Binational wire and cable packaging standard
D. DETAILED REQUIREMENTS (see Detailed Requirements description)
[Note: use a subset of clauses applicable to the advanced conductor type being
purchased.]
The conductor shall be of the size and stranding specified in the Schedule of Prices.
Conductor materials, construction, characteristics, and tests shall be in accordance with
ASTM B 856, except as otherwise specified herein.
Steel core wire shall be in accordance with ASTM B 498, Class A coating.
Aluminum wire shall be in accordance with ASTM B 609.
Stranded steel core wire shall be in accordance with ASTM B500.
The wires of each layer shall be in close proximity to each other, and each layer shall be
in actual contact with the layer underneath.
The lay of the surface wires or segments of the conductor shall be right hand. The
direction of the lay of the aluminum and steel wires shall be reversed in successive
layers.

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 Stranded conductors shall be capable of withstanding the normal handling necessary for
manufacture and erection (such as reeling, unreeling, and pulling through stringing
sheaves under sufficient tension to keep the conductor off the ground) without being
deformed from a circular form in such a way as to increase the power loss due to corona
formation.
The steel wires of the core shall be so formed that when the cable is cut and the
aluminum wires are stripped away from the core, as required for splicing, the steel wires
can be readily regrouped and easily held in place by one hand to allow a splicing sleeve
to be slipped over the cut end of the core. This structure permits the core to be made of
either preformed or unformed wires but prohibits the use of any deformed wire in the
core.
E. INSPECTION AND TESTS (see Inspection and Tests description)
[Note: use a subset of clauses applicable to the advanced conductor type being
purchased.]
1. Shop Inspection
a. No material or equipment shall be shipped from its point of manufacture
before it has been inspected unless the Buyer authorizes inspection to be
made elsewhere.
b. The acceptance of any material or equipment shall in no way relieve the
contractor of any of his responsibility for meeting all of the requirements of
the specification and shall not prevent subsequent rejection if such material or
equipment is later found to be defective.
c. Buyer’s representative shall, at all times, have access to all places of
manufacture where materials or equipment are being made or prepared for
use under this contract, and they shall have full facilities for unrestricted
inspection of such materials or equipment.
2. Tests
a. Buyer, at their discretion, may waive any or all of the provisions for inspection
and tests, either in the invitation for bids or at the time of award of contract.
b. Aluminum wire shall be tested as required in ASTM B 609. Steel wire shall be
tested as required in ASTM B 498.
c. Tests shall be made on individual wires before stranding, except the weight-of-
coating test shall be performed on samples of the core wire taken from the
completed core.

14477471 Page | 39
 d. Samples to be given the weight-of-coating test shall be taken from not less
than 20 percent of the reels of stranded core wire with a minimum of one
sample for every ten reels of composite cable. All wires from each stranded
sample shall be tested. If a sample taken from any reel (either on the original
sampling or any subsequent sampling) fails to meet the weight of Class A
coating values specified in ASTM B 498, that reel should be rejected. In
addition, if a sample fails, the Buyer inspector will take a sample to be given
the test from each reel offered in the lot being tested. If more than 20 percent
of the total number of samples taken from any lot fail this test, the entire lot
shall be rejected. Certified test reports from the steel wire Manufacturer shall
be accepted in lieu of the testing specified.
e. Certified reports of the tests on samples of conductors and of individual strand
wires, in accordance with ASTM requirements, shall be completed by the
Manufacturer. Electronic copies of the reports shall, at a minimum, provide the
information shown in Appendix # as well as the pass/fail wrap test and
adherence-of-coating test. These reports must state the number of reels and
net weight of ACSS covered by the report. The report must also indicate which
tests were made before stranding and which tests were made after stranding.
3. Stress-Strain Tests
a. Buyer will require stress-strain tests to be completed and submitted
electronically for the initial purchase of any conductor design.
b. If requested by the Buyer, repeated stress-strain tests on the composite cable
and the steel core shall be performed in the presence of the Buyer’s inspector.
c. One reel will be required if ordering 10 reels or less. One sample of composite
cable and one sample of steel core from each of two different reels will be
required for orders between 11–20 reels. One sample of composite cable and
one sample of steel core from each of three different reels will be required on
an order for 21 or more reels, unless otherwise specified. The test samples
shall each be approximately 50 ft long to provide 500 in. between measure
points of unstressed conductor.
d. Tests on the composite cable shall be performed as follows: Sufficient tension,
not to exceed 8 percent of the rated strength of the cable being tested or 1000
pounds, whichever is the smaller, shall be applied gradually to the sample in
order to eliminate sag and ensure comparative straightness before the scales
fastened to the cable at each end of the gage length are set. The tension
applied to each sample shall be increased by small increments for the following
loading conditions in the sequence shown, and simultaneous readings of
tension and elongation up to 80 percent of rated strength shall be recorded:

14477471 Page | 40
 Load initially to 8 percent of rated strength or set gages at zero.
1000 pounds, whichever is smaller.
Load to 30 percent of rated strength. Hold 30 minutes.
Reduce to initial loading.
Load to 50 percent of rated strength. Hold 60 minutes.
Reduce to initial loading.
Load to 70 percent of rated strength. Hold 60 minutes.
Reduce to initial loading
Load until sample is broken. Record-breaking load.
e. The breaking strength of the conductor, obtained from the above test, shall be
not less than the rated strength if failure occurs in the free length at least six
inches beyond the end of either gripping device, or shall be not less than the
95 percent value shown in the following tabulation if failure occurs inside or
within six inches of the end of either gripping device.
f. Tests on the steel core shall be made as follows: This test shall consist of three
successive applications of load applied in a manner similar to that for the
composite cable. Pull core to the same amount of elongation as the composite
cable at 30, 50, and 70 percent of rated strength (see tabulation E.3.d.).
Determine actual breaking strength and record data in the same manner as for
the composite cable.
g. Certified reports of stress-strain tests—in both tabulated and graphic form—
shall be furnished on the composite cable and steel core by the contractor in
electronic format. These reports shall include the following data:
− Temperature at which tests are conducted
− Identity of reel from which test samples are taken
− Initial and final modulus of elasticity for the composite conductor and the
steel core
h. Composite core conductors shall have the thermos-mechanical aging tests
outlined in Chapter 4 Composite Core Qualification Test performed to validate
the performance and serviceability of the composite core material and its
application in an overhead conductor.
F. PACKING AND MARKING (see Marking and Packing description)
1. The conductor shall be packed, sealed, and shipped in accordance with recognized
standard practice.
2. The reel lengths on substantial reels shall be as specified in the Schedule of Prices,
in accordance with NEMA WC-26, except that—unless specified otherwise in the
Schedule of Prices—reel lengths may vary minus zero (0) to plus percent, and

14477471 Page | 41
 5 percent of the order by weight may be shipped in random lengths upon approval
by the Buyer. None of these lengths shall be less than 50 percent of the reel length
specified or the reel length agreed upon after the award of contract. Reel lengths
can also be specified for a particular order to meet the unique needs of the project;
the reel lengths may be specified as a non-standard length for all reels ordered or
specific reel lengths for each individual reel on the order. There shall be only one
length of conductor on a reel. For metal reels, the inside of the flanges and drum of
the reel shall be covered to prevent the metal reel surfaces from coming in contact
with the aluminum conductor.
3. All reels shall have a minimum of a Level 2 reel covering per NEMA WC-26. The
specific reel covering to be provided will be identified in the contract document.
Product damage during shipping is typically the responsibility of the vendor. The
ends of the conductor shall be securely attached to the reel flange.
4. Shipping coils and reels shall be marked, as a minimum, with the following
information: Buyer CAT ID and description, the quantity contained therein, gross
weight, the contract number and the Purchase Order, the date of manufacture, and
the manufacturer’s name. An arrow indicating the direction in which the cable is
wound shall be painted on the reel or coil at the end of the cable.
5. Reel heads shall have metal hub bushings with a hole to fit a 5- to 5.25-inch arbor
shaft for reel support equipment.
G. CONDUCTOR STORAGE AND HANDLING (see Storage and Handling description)
1. Conductors shall be stored in a safe, orderly fashion, free from any undesirable
environmental conditions to enable identification. Where possible, conductors
should be stored in a covered area or under a tarpaulin capable of enduring the
planned storage time. Store the conductor in a manner that avoids flooding,
standing water, deep mud, or where ground salts may cause corrosion.
2. Unlagged drums should be stored in such a way as to prevent other drum flanges or
protuberances from damaging the conductor. Only fully lagged and lined drums shall
be stored outdoors. Lagging materials shall be handled carefully to prevent damage
to the packing or the conductor.
3. Completed drums of the conductor shall only be lifted using specialized forklift
trucks, cradles, or slings employing a suitable mandrel through the drum spindle
hole. The use of forklift trucks lifting by the flange rim is not acceptable.

14477471 Page | 42
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