UNDERGROUND CABLES

Solid cable:
Construction:
Solid cables consist of a solid conductor, typically made of copper or aluminum,
surrounded by insulation material such as PVC or XLPE. The conductor is
usually single-stranded and provides a direct path for the flow of electricity.

Properties:
Solid cables are known for their durability and reliability. They are less prone to
damage from external factors such as moisture or temperature changes. However,
they are less flexible compared to other types of cables.

Gas-filled cable:
Construction:
Gas-filled cables contain a central conductor surrounded by a pressurized gas,
such as nitrogen or sulfur hexafluoride, which serves as the insulating medium.
The gas helps to prevent electrical discharges and provides better insulation
properties.
Properties:
Gas-filled cables are known for their high voltage carrying capacity and low
electrical losses. They are also resistant to environmental factors such as moisture
and chemical exposure. However, they require regular maintenance to ensure the
integrity of the gas insulation.

Oil-filled cable:
Construction:
Oil-filled cables consist of a conductor enclosed in an oil-filled tube or sheath.
The oil serves as the insulating medium and helps to dissipate heat generated
during operation. The oil used is typically mineral oil or synthetic oil.

Properties:
Oil-filled cables are known for their high dielectric strength and excellent
cooling properties. They are capable of carrying high voltages over long distances
and are often used in high-power transmission systems. However, they require
regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent leaks and ensure the integrity of
the oil insulation.

Polymeric cable:
Construction:
Polymeric cables are constructed using polymer materials such as XLPE (cross-
linked polyethylene) or EPR (ethylene propylene rubber) for insulation. These
materials offer excellent electrical and mechanical properties, making them
suitable for various applications.

Properties:
Polymeric cables are known for their flexibility, lightweight construction, and
resistance to environmental factors such as moisture, UV radiation, and
chemicals. They have low electrical losses and can operate at higher temperatures
compared to traditional cables. Polymeric cables are commonly used in
underground and subsea applications due to their reliability and durability.
OVERHEAD LINES
Copper cable:
Construction:
Copper cables consist of a solid or stranded copper conductor surrounded by
insulation material, such as PVC or XLPE. The conductor can be either bare or
covered with a thin layer of tin or silver for better conductivity and corrosion
resistance. Copper cables may also have additional layers of insulation and
protective sheathing depending on the application.

Properties:
 Copper cables are known for their high conductivity, excellent electrical
performance, and resistance to corrosion. They have low electrical losses and can
carry high currents efficiently. Copper cables are durable and have a long service
life, making them suitable for various overhead applications.
APPLICATION:

Aluminum alloy cable:

Construction:
Aluminum alloy cables are made of an aluminum conductor alloyed with small
amounts of other metals to improve strength and conductivity. The conductor is
typically stranded to enhance flexibility and reduce weight. Aluminum alloy
cables may have insulation, shielding, and protective layers similar to copper
cables.

Properties:
Aluminum alloy cables offer a good balance between conductivity and cost-
effectiveness. They are lighter than copper cables, making them easier to handle
and install. Aluminum alloy cables have lower tensile strength compared to
copper but are suitable for medium to high voltage overhead transmission lines.

ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced):

Construction:
ACSR cables consist of a central aluminum conductor surrounded by one or
more layers of steel wires. The steel wires provide mechanical strength and
support to the cable, while the aluminum conductor carries the electrical current.
ACSR cables may have a variety of designs with different combinations of
aluminum and steel strands.
Properties:
ACSR cables combine the high conductivity of aluminum with the strength and
durability of steel. They are commonly used in overhead transmission lines where
long spans and high mechanical loads are present. ACSR cables offer excellent
sag resistance, high tensile strength, and good corrosion resistance, making them
suitable for a wide range of applications.

Aerial bundled conductor (ABC):

Construction:
Aerial bundled conductors consist of multiple insulated conductors bundled
together and covered with a protective layer of weather-resistant material, such
as PVC or XLPE. The conductors can be made of aluminum or copper, depending
on the application requirements. ABC cables are designed for overhead power
distribution systems.

Properties:
ABC cables provide a compact and cost-effective solution for overhead power
distribution networks. They offer improved safety by reducing the risk of phase-
to-phase and phase-to-ground faults. ABC cables are resistant to environmental
factors such as UV radiation, moisture, and temperature variations. They are easy
to install and maintain, making them suitable for urban and rural distribution
systems.
TRANSMISSION LINES
Optic Fiber Cable:
Construction:
Optic fiber cables consist of a core made of glass or plastic fibers that carry light
signals, surrounded by cladding material that reflects the light back into the core.
The core and cladding are protected by a buffer and outer jacket made of materials
like PVC or LSZH. Optic fiber cables may also have additional strength members
like aramid yarn or steel for added durability.

Properties:
Optic fiber cables offer high bandwidth and low signal loss compared to
traditional copper cables. They are immune to electromagnetic interference and
can transmit data over long distances without degradation. Optic fiber cables are
lightweight, flexible, and resistant to environmental factors like moisture and
temperature fluctuations.
Application Areas:
Optic fiber cables are widely used in telecommunications, data networking, and
broadband internet connections. They are also used in applications like cable
television, medical imaging, and industrial automation where high-speed data
transmission is required.

Coaxial Cable:
Construction: Coaxial cables consist of a central conductor surrounded by a
dielectric insulator, which is then covered by a conductive shield and an outer
jacket. The central conductor can be solid or stranded copper, while the shield is
typically made of aluminum or copper foil with a braided wire layer for added
protection. Coaxial cables may have different configurations like RG-6 or RG-59
depending on the application.

Properties:
Coaxial cables provide good signal integrity and shielding against
electromagnetic interference. They have low signal loss and can carry high-
frequency signals efficiently. Coaxial cables are durable and flexible, making
them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Application Areas:
Coaxial cables are commonly used in cable television, satellite communication,
CCTV systems, and broadband internet connections. They are also used in radio
frequency (RF) transmission, test and measurement equipment, and military
communication systems.

Twin Wire Cable:

Construction:
Twin wire cables consist of two parallel conductors made of copper or aluminum,
each insulated with a layer of PVC or other insulating material. The conductors
are typically twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference and
crosstalk. Twin wire cables may have an overall jacket for added protection.
Properties:
Twin wire cables are simple and cost-effective solutions for low-voltage power
distribution and signal transmission. They provide good conductivity and
flexibility, making them easy to install and handle. Twin wire cables are suitable
for short-distance applications where a basic electrical connection is required.
Application Areas:
Twin wire cables are commonly used in residential wiring, speaker systems,
automotive applications, and low-voltage lighting installations. They are also
used in security systems, intercoms, and audio equipment where a simple two-
wire connection is needed.

Waveguide :
Construction:
Waveguide cables consist of a hollow metal tube or rectangular waveguide
structure that guides electromagnetic waves at microwave frequencies. The
waveguide is typically made of materials like aluminum, brass, or copper to
provide low loss and high power handling capabilities. Waveguide cables may
have flanges or connectors for easy installation.
Properties:
Waveguide cables offer low signal loss, high power handling capacity, and
excellent electromagnetic shielding. They are ideal for high-frequency
applications where signal integrity is critical. Waveguide cables have precise
dimensions to maintain the desired mode of propagation for microwave signals.
Application Areas:
Waveguide cables are commonly used in radar systems, satellite communication,
microwave links, and high-power RF applications. They are also used in medical
equipment like MRI machines, particle accelerators, and research laboratories
where precise control of electromagnetic waves is required.