1 Answer
In transmission lines, the most common cables used are:
The type of cable used depends on factors such as the voltage level, the environment, and whether the line is overhead or underground.
- Aerial Bundled Cable (ABC): These are overhead cables often used in electrical transmission and distribution. They consist of multiple insulated conductors bundled together and are used for power transmission over long distances.
- Copper and Aluminum Conductors: Copper and aluminum are the most commonly used materials for the conductors in transmission lines because of their good electrical conductivity and relatively low cost. Aluminum is lighter and less expensive, while copper has slightly better conductivity but is more expensive.
- High-Voltage Transmission Cables: For high-voltage transmission lines, specialized cables such as XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) insulated cables or paper-insulated lead-covered (PILC) cables may be used to prevent energy loss and to insulate the conductors from the environment.
- Optical Ground Wire (OPGW): This cable combines both electrical power transmission and optical fiber communication. It's often used for high-voltage transmission lines where communication is also required alongside power transmission.
The type of cable used depends on factors such as the voltage level, the environment, and whether the line is overhead or underground.