Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Aluminum-Clad Steel Reinforced for Use in Overhead Electrical Conductors

B549-13: Standard Specification for Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Aluminum-Clad Steel Reinforced for Use in Overhead Electrical Conductors

In the critical realm of overhead electrical infrastructure, the reliability and performance of conductors are paramount. ASTM B549-13 stands as an essential, industry-leading standard that provides engineers and designers with the definitive specifications for a specialized type of conductor: concentric-lay-stranded aluminum conductors with an aluminum-clad steel core. This comprehensive document is crucial for ensuring the integrity, durability, and electrical performance of overhead power lines and other critical electrical transmission systems.

What is B549-13?

ASTM B549-13 is an authoritative standard that defines the requirements for concentric-lay-stranded conductors composed of aluminum wires and an aluminum-clad steel core. Developed by ASTM International, this specification ensures that these conductors meet stringent criteria for use in overhead electrical applications, guaranteeing their suitability for demanding environments and operational loads. Its primary purpose is to provide a standardized basis for the design, manufacturing, and procurement of these vital components in the electrical grid.

Scope & Purpose

This standard governs the construction and performance characteristics of concentric-lay-stranded conductors intended for overhead electrical applications. It specifically details the materials, stranding arrangements, and physical properties of conductors made from round aluminum 1350-H19 wires and round aluminum-clad steel core wires. The standard does not cover conductors intended for other applications, such as underground or insulated cables, nor does it specify installation procedures or environmental testing beyond material properties.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Electrical Engineers, Materials Engineers, Design Engineers, Project Managers, Procurement Specialists, and Quality Control Inspectors involved in the design, specification, and procurement of overhead electrical conductors.
• • Industries affected: Electric Power Generation and Distribution, Telecommunications Infrastructure, Civil Engineering (for large-scale infrastructure projects), and any sector relying on robust overhead electrical transmission.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but widely adopted as a de facto industry requirement for critical infrastructure projects to ensure interoperability, safety, and proven performance.
• • Enforcement: Typically enforced through contractual agreements between manufacturers, suppliers, and project owners. Quality control inspectors and testing agencies verify compliance with the standard's requirements during manufacturing and before installation.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires that conductors be constructed using specific grades of aluminum (1350-H19) and aluminum-clad steel core wires. Professionals must ensure that the stranding configuration, including the number and diameter of individual wires, conforms to the detailed tables provided within the specification. Key provisions include defined mechanical strength requirements to withstand tension and environmental stresses, as well as electrical conductivity parameters to minimize power loss. The standard also outlines acceptable variations in dimensions and mass per unit length to maintain consistent performance.

Related Standards & References

ASTM B549-13 is often used in conjunction with other ASTM standards. ASTM B230/B230M (Specification for Aluminum 1350-H19 Wire for Electrical Purposes) and ASTM B500/B500M (Specification for Metallic Coated or Aluminum Clad Stranded Steel Core for Use in Overhead Electrical Conductors) provide the foundational material specifications for the individual components. **ASTM