Compressed Round Stranded Aluminum Conductors Using Single Input Wire Construction

B901: Standard Specification for Compressed Round Stranded Aluminum Conductors Using Single Input Wire Construction

For engineers and designers involved in electrical infrastructure, understanding the fundamental materials is paramount. ASTM B901 provides an essential framework for specifying and procuring high-performance compressed round stranded aluminum conductors, ensuring reliability and efficiency in critical power transmission and distribution systems.

What is B901?

ASTM B901 is an authoritative standard that defines the requirements for compressed round stranded aluminum conductors manufactured using a Single Input Wire (SIW) construction. Developed by ASTM International, this standard ensures uniformity and quality in the production of these conductors, which are integral to modern electrical systems. Its primary purpose is to provide clear specifications for material properties, construction, and testing.

Scope & Purpose

This industry-leading standard governs the design, material composition, and performance characteristics of bare stranded aluminum conductors intended for general electrical applications, including those for subsequent covering or insulation. It specifically addresses conductors formed by helically laid wires, compressed to achieve a round cross-section through a single input wire methodology. While it details requirements for aluminum 1350 and 8000 series alloys in various tempers, it does not cover insulated or jacketed conductors directly, but rather the conductor material itself prior to such finishing.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Electrical Engineers, Materials Engineers, Standards Engineers, Project Managers, and Procurement Specialists.
• • Industries affected: Electrical Power Transmission & Distribution, Telecommunications, Renewable Energy, Aerospace, Automotive, and Construction.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary for general use, but often becomes mandatory through contractual agreements or project specifications.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified through product testing, third-party inspections, and adherence to purchasing specifications, often overseen by project engineers or quality assurance personnel.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires adherence to specific material compositions, allowing for aluminum 1350-H19, -H16, -H26, -H14, -H24, -H142, -H242, and 8000 series aluminum alloys. Professionals must ensure that the single input wire construction method results in a conductor with a specified round cross-section and density. Key provisions include detailed requirements for wire tempers, allowable joint types (cold-pressure or electric-butt, cold-upset), and minimum distances between these joints. The standard also mandates specific testing to verify electrical resistivity and cross-sectional area, ensuring consistent performance.

Related Standards & References

ASTM B901 works in conjunction with several complementary ASTM standards. Specification B230/B230M and B800 provide essential details on the aluminum wire used in conductor construction. Test Method B193 is crucial for verifying the electrical resistivity of the conductor materials, a critical parameter for performance. Additionally, Terminology B354 offers definitions for various conductor types and associated terms, ensuring clear communication among professionals.