Concentric-Lay-Stranded Conductors of 8000 Series Aluminum Alloy for Subsequent Covering or Insulation

B801-07: Standard Specification for Concentric-Lay-Stranded Conductors of 8000 Series Aluminum Alloy for Subsequent Covering or Insulation

For electrical engineers and product designers working with bare aluminum alloy conductors, understanding the foundational standards governing their construction is essential. ASTM B801-07 provides that critical framework, ensuring reliability and performance for conductors intended for further processing. This authoritative specification is a cornerstone for anyone specifying or manufacturing electrical cables and wires.

What is B801-07?

ASTM B801-07 is a comprehensive standard developed by ASTM International that defines the requirements for concentric-lay-stranded conductors manufactured from 8000 series aluminum alloys. Its primary purpose is to ensure these conductors, which are designed to be subsequently covered or insulated, meet stringent quality and performance criteria. This standard ensures uniformity and predictability in the manufacturing process and the resulting conductor properties.

Scope & Purpose

This specification governs the construction, material properties, and performance characteristics of bare, concentric-lay-stranded conductors made from 8000 series aluminum alloy wires. It covers conventional, compressed, and compact constructions, intended for use where the conductor will be further processed with coverings or insulation. The standard specifies requirements for stranded conductors made from round or shaped wires, including those designed to prevent longitudinal water propagation. It does not cover conductors that are already insulated or covered.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Electrical Engineers, Materials Engineers, Product Designers, Quality Control Inspectors, and Manufacturing Technicians involved in the design or production of wire and cable.
• • Industries affected: Electrical Power, Telecommunications, Electronics Manufacturing, and Cable Manufacturing.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but widely adopted as an industry best practice and often incorporated into contractual specifications.
• • Enforcement: Typically enforced through contractual agreements, quality assurance programs, and third-party certification.

Key Requirements Overview

Professionals working with ASTM B801-07 must adhere to several core requirements to ensure conductor integrity and performance:

• • The standard mandates the use of 8000 series aluminum alloys, specifying permissible tempers ("0" and H1X or H2X) for the individual wires.
• • It defines various conductor classes (A, B, C, and D) based on flexibility requirements and intended use with different covering or insulation types.
• • Key provisions include detailed specifications for conductor construction, including the number of wires, lay direction, and lay length, which are critical for mechanical and electrical performance.
• • The standard outlines acceptable methods for joining wires, such as electric-butt welding and cold-pressure welding, and sets limits on joint placement within the conductor.
• • It establishes requirements for conductor diameter, cross-sectional area, and electrical resistance, often referencing other ASTM standards for testing methodologies.

Related Standards & References

ASTM B801-07 often works in conjunction with other ASTM standards to provide a complete picture of conductor requirements. Complementary standards include:

• • ASTM B800: Specification for 8000 Series Aluminum Alloy Wire for Electrical Purposes, which details the requirements for the base aluminum alloy wire used to construct the conductors.
• • ASTM B193: Test Method for Resistivity of Electrical Conductor Materials, essential for