Aluminum Alloy Conductor Plastic Insulated Power Cable Rated up to 26/35kV

Reliable power transmission depends on cable systems that can combine electrical performance, mechanical strength, installation efficiency, and long-term environmental resistance. The aluminum alloy conductor plastic insulated power cable rated up to 26/35kV is designed to meet these requirements in medium-voltage and low-voltage power transmission and distribution systems. It uses an aluminum alloy conductor as the conductive core and a high-performance plastic insulation system, commonly cross-linked polyethylene, to provide dependable electrical insulation and thermal stability.

This cable is suitable for fixed installation in urban power grids, industrial distribution systems, large public buildings, transport infrastructure, energy facilities, and many other engineering environments. Its structure is designed to maintain a balanced relationship between conductivity, weight, mechanical performance, heat resistance, aging resistance, and installation convenience.

Compared with many traditional cables using heavier conductor materials, aluminum alloy conductor cables provide a lower-weight solution while retaining the electrical and mechanical characteristics required for modern distribution networks. The reduced weight can simplify transportation, handling, laying, support design, and installation planning. At the same time, the alloy conductor provides improved mechanical strength compared with ordinary aluminum conductors, helping the cable withstand the practical demands of construction and long-term service.

Manufactured according to GB/T 31840-2025 and capable of being produced to applicable IEC, British, or American standards, this cable can serve domestic and international engineering projects. Its application range extends from 0.6/1kV low-voltage systems to medium-voltage systems up to 26/35kV, depending on the selected design and technical specification.

Product Overview

The aluminum alloy conductor plastic insulated power cable is a fixed-installation power cable intended for the transmission and distribution of electrical energy. The cable generally consists of an aluminum alloy conductor, an insulation layer, optional shielding or metallic protective components according to voltage level and design requirements, fillers or binding materials where applicable, and an outer sheath.

For medium-voltage applications, the insulation system is typically based on cross-linked polyethylene. This material provides stable dielectric performance, good heat resistance, and strong resistance to aging under normal operating conditions. For low-voltage applications, cross-linked polyethylene insulation can also be used to provide reliable performance in building, industrial, and infrastructure distribution systems.

The rated voltage designation up to 26/35kV indicates suitability for power systems with a maximum system voltage in the relevant medium-voltage range. Exact cable construction, conductor size, insulation thickness, shielding arrangement, sheath material, and testing requirements are selected according to the system voltage, current-carrying capacity, installation conditions, short-circuit requirements, and project standards.

Because the product can be customized for different voltage classes and installation environments, it is not limited to one type of power project. It may be manufactured as a single-core or three-core cable and can be supplied in a range of conductor cross-sectional areas. Engineering users can therefore select a design that matches the load, route length, fault level, installation method, and environmental conditions of the project.

Core Product Advantages

Aluminum Alloy Conductor Technology

The conductor is the electrical path of the cable and directly affects current-carrying capacity, voltage drop, mechanical behavior, installation weight, and service reliability. The aluminum alloy conductor in this product is manufactured through controlled material selection and optimized conductor design. Alloying and stranding technologies are used to achieve a practical balance between electrical conductivity and mechanical strength.

Compared with conventional aluminum conductors, aluminum alloy conductors can offer improved tensile performance, better resistance to mechanical deformation, and enhanced handling characteristics. These advantages are valuable during cable transportation, pulling, bending, laying, and termination. The conductor remains light enough to reduce the burden on cable support systems while providing greater structural stability than a basic aluminum conductor of comparable application.

The lower density of aluminum alloy compared with copper can significantly reduce the mass of a cable. A lighter cable may require less lifting equipment, fewer workers for handling, and simpler logistics for delivery to construction sites. In long cable routes, reduced weight can also help engineers evaluate more efficient support spacing, tray loading, and installation procedures, subject to the applicable design rules.

Although aluminum alloy conductors have lower electrical conductivity than copper conductors of the same cross-sectional area, cable design can compensate through appropriate conductor sizing and structural optimization. The result is a practical conductor solution that can meet the electrical requirements of many medium-voltage and low-voltage systems while providing advantages in resource utilization, weight control, and project economics.

Cross-Linked Polyethylene Insulation

Cross-linked polyethylene is widely used in modern power cable insulation because it provides a combination of electrical strength, heat resistance, and long-term stability. In normal operation, the maximum permissible long-term conductor temperature for the specified cable family is generally 90°C. This temperature capability supports the continuous operation of power distribution systems under normal load conditions.

The insulation system is manufactured with close attention to material cleanliness, layer uniformity, concentricity, and process stability. These factors are important because local imperfections, uneven thickness, or contamination can reduce insulation reliability. Advanced extrusion and monitoring equipment helps control the insulation layer and maintain consistent product quality throughout the cable length.

Cross-linked polyethylene also offers good resistance to thermal aging. When correctly designed and installed, the insulation can maintain stable performance over long service periods. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor fixed installations and can be combined with appropriate sheath materials for additional environmental protection.

In medium-voltage cables, the insulation system works together with semiconductive screens and other protective layers where required. The purpose of this coordinated structure is to control the electric field, reduce localized stress, and support safe and stable operation under the rated voltage. The exact screen and shielding design depends on the cable voltage class and the applicable manufacturing standard.

Reliable Sheath and Environmental Protection

The outer sheath protects the internal cable structure from moisture, abrasion, impact, chemicals, ultraviolet exposure, and other external influences. Sheath materials are selected according to the intended application. A cable installed in a building may require different environmental characteristics from one installed underground, in a tunnel, at an industrial plant, or in a coastal facility.

A properly designed sheath contributes to mechanical protection and helps maintain the integrity of the insulation system. It also supports easier identification, handling, and installation. Depending on project requirements, the cable may be supplied with sheath materials that offer improved flame behavior, oil resistance, low smoke performance, enhanced weather resistance, or other special properties.

Where cables are exposed to challenging conditions, the complete system should be assessed rather than the sheath alone. Cable route design, conduit selection, jointing, termination, drainage, grounding, and protection from excessive mechanical stress all contribute to long-term reliability. The product can be adapted to these conditions through appropriate construction and material selection.

Balanced Electrical and Mechanical Performance

A power cable must do more than carry current. It must remain structurally sound during transportation and installation, resist environmental effects during service, and maintain stable electrical properties over its design life. The aluminum alloy conductor plastic insulated power cable is designed around this complete performance requirement.

Its conductor provides current transmission and mechanical support. Its insulation provides dielectric protection. Its sheath provides environmental and mechanical protection. Together, these layers create a cable structure suitable for fixed power distribution applications. The design can be adjusted according to installation method, rated voltage, conductor size, bending requirements, and expected operating conditions.

This balanced design is one of the key advantages over products that focus on only one performance feature. A very light cable may not provide sufficient mechanical strength, while a very robust cable may create unnecessary weight and installation cost. The aluminum alloy construction provides a middle path that supports practical engineering performance and efficient project execution.

Aluminum Alloy Conductor Plastic Insulated Power Cable (Rated Voltage up to 26/35kV)

Technical Operating Characteristics

Medium-Voltage Cable Performance

For cross-linked polyethylene insulated power cables rated from 3.6/6kV to 35kV, the maximum permissible long-term conductor operating temperature is generally 90°C. This operating limit is important for continuous power transmission because it defines the thermal condition under which the conductor and insulation system can operate during normal service.

Under short-circuit conditions lasting no more than five seconds, the maximum allowable conductor temperature may reach 250°C. This short-duration thermal capability allows the cable to withstand temporary fault conditions while protective devices operate to isolate the fault. The actual short-circuit rating must be confirmed for the selected conductor size, metallic screen, installation method, and project protection system.

The recommended ambient temperature during installation should not be lower than 0°C for the stated cable design. At low temperatures, polymeric materials can become less flexible and more susceptible to damage if handled improperly. Following the specified installation temperature helps preserve insulation and sheath performance during pulling, bending, jointing, and termination.

For three-core cables, the minimum bending radius is generally not less than ten times the cable outer diameter. For single-core cables, the minimum bending radius is generally not less than fifteen times the cable outer diameter. These values help protect the conductor, insulation, screen, and sheath from excessive stress. The actual project instructions should always be followed if they specify a larger radius.

Low-Voltage Cable Performance

For cross-linked polyethylene insulated cables rated 0.6/1kV, the maximum permissible long-term conductor operating temperature is also generally 90°C. Under short-circuit conditions lasting no more than five seconds, the conductor temperature may reach 250°C, provided that the selected cable and protection system comply with the applicable requirements.

During installation, the ambient temperature should not be lower than 0°C. The minimum bending radius for the low-voltage cable design is generally not less than seven times the cable outer diameter. This provides useful installation flexibility in distribution cabinets, building service rooms, cable trenches, industrial workshops, and other restricted spaces.

Although low-voltage cables are often easier to install than medium-voltage cables, correct handling remains essential. Excessive pulling force, sharp bending, uncontrolled dragging, or poor termination can reduce service life. The cable should be installed using suitable rollers, pulling equipment, supports, and termination procedures.

Summary of Main Technical Parameters

Item	Medium-Voltage Design	Low-Voltage Design
Typical insulation material	Cross-linked polyethylene	Cross-linked polyethylene
Voltage range referenced	3.6/6kV to 35kV, including up to 26/35kV systems	0.6/1kV
Maximum long-term conductor temperature	90°C	90°C
Maximum conductor temperature during short circuit	250°C for no more than 5 seconds	250°C for no more than 5 seconds
Recommended minimum installation temperature	0°C	0°C
Minimum bending radius	Three-core: 10 times outer diameter; single-core: 15 times outer diameter	At least 7 times outer diameter
Primary applications	Medium-voltage distribution, industrial systems, urban grids, public infrastructure	Building distribution, equipment connections, industrial and commercial systems

The values in this table are general product characteristics based on the provided technical information. The final technical data sheet for a specific order should be used for detailed dimensions, conductor resistance, current ratings, screen design, sheath properties, test voltage, delivery length, and other project-specific parameters.

Manufacturing Process and Quality Control

Conductor Material Preparation

Manufacturing begins with the selection and preparation of suitable aluminum alloy materials. Chemical composition, cleanliness, electrical characteristics, and mechanical properties must be controlled before the material enters the conductor production process. Consistent raw material quality is essential for obtaining stable resistance, strength, and dimensional accuracy throughout the finished cable.

The alloy is processed into conductor elements through controlled forming and drawing operations. These processes establish the required diameter, surface condition, flexibility, and mechanical properties. Depending on the design, the conductor may be compacted or stranded to achieve the required cross-sectional area and improve the relationship between conductor size and cable diameter.

Stranding equipment must maintain accurate pitch, alignment, tension, and lay direction. Inconsistent stranding can affect conductor flexibility and create irregularities in later insulation extrusion. Controlled production parameters help ensure that the conductor remains concentric and stable as it passes through the following manufacturing stages.

Insulation Extrusion

Insulation extrusion is a critical operation for medium-voltage and low-voltage power cables. The polymer material is prepared, heated, and extruded around the conductor to form a continuous and uniform insulation layer. Temperature, pressure, line speed, material cleanliness, and cooling conditions are carefully controlled.

For medium-voltage cable, the insulation system may include inner and outer semiconductive layers in addition to the cross-linked polyethylene insulation. These layers must be applied concentrically and remain closely integrated with the insulation. Their function is to support electric field control and reduce the risk of localized electrical stress.

Online eccentricity monitoring can detect deviations in insulation thickness and concentricity during production. This type of monitoring allows operators to identify process variation promptly instead of relying only on final inspection. Continuous process control is especially valuable for long cable lengths, where a small defect could otherwise extend over a significant section of product.

Cross-Linking and Cooling

Cross-linking changes the molecular structure of polyethylene so that the insulation can withstand higher operating temperatures and maintain improved dimensional stability. The cross-linking process must be controlled to achieve the intended physical and electrical characteristics without damaging the insulation or creating internal defects.

After cross-linking, the cable is cooled under controlled conditions. Cooling affects dimensional stability, surface quality, and the final relationship between the conductor and insulation layers. Proper cooling helps prevent deformation and supports reliable downstream processes such as screening, armoring where specified, and sheath extrusion.

Screening, Sheathing, and Finishing

Where required by the voltage class, metallic and nonmetallic screening components are applied after insulation extrusion. The screening system is designed to support electric field control, grounding, fault current handling, and electromagnetic performance. The particular construction depends on the applicable standard and the project design.

The outer sheath is then extruded over the cable core or assembled cable structure. Sheath extrusion requires accurate control of material temperature, extrusion pressure, cooling, thickness, and surface finish. The finished sheath should be continuous, smooth, and free from visible defects that could compromise mechanical or environmental protection.

After the cable is completed, it is wound onto drums or supplied in other approved delivery configurations. Drum dimensions, cable length, bending direction, and handling markings are selected to support safe transportation and installation. Clear product identification helps users verify voltage class, conductor size, construction, length, manufacturing batch, and applicable standard.

Testing and Inspection

Quality control is conducted throughout the production process rather than only at the end. Incoming raw materials are inspected, production parameters are monitored, and finished cable samples are tested. This approach creates multiple control points and helps prevent defects from progressing through the manufacturing line.

Typical inspection and testing activities may include conductor resistance measurement, dimensional inspection, insulation thickness measurement, sheath thickness measurement, tensile and elongation tests, aging tests, insulation resistance tests, withstand voltage tests, partial discharge testing for applicable medium-voltage products, and checks of conductor and screen continuity.

High-voltage series resonance testing equipment can be used for suitable voltage withstand testing. Partial discharge detectors can help identify localized insulation defects that may not be visible through ordinary dimensional inspection. Online eccentricity monitoring provides an additional method of controlling insulation geometry during extrusion.

The manufacturer operates more than 70 advanced production and testing lines and maintains technical personnel dedicated to product development, process improvement, and quality management. This combination of equipment and technical expertise supports the stable production of a broad range of cable categories and specifications.

Compliance with Standards and International Requirements

The product is manufactured in accordance with GB/T 31840-2025. Compliance with a recognized product standard provides a technical framework for conductor construction, insulation, testing, performance verification, and acceptance. It also helps engineering users compare product specifications and establish purchasing requirements.

For projects outside China, the cable can also be designed and tested according to applicable International Electrotechnical Commission standards, British standards, or American standards. The selected standard should be confirmed during the technical stage because different standards may define voltage designations, dimensions, test methods, conductor classifications, and acceptance criteria in different ways.

The ability to work with multiple standards is particularly useful for international engineering contractors, equipment integrators, power infrastructure developers, and overseas distribution projects. It allows technical documentation, inspection plans, and quality records to be aligned with the requirements of the destination country or project owner.

Standards compliance should be considered together with the complete cable system. Terminations, joints, grounding, installation conditions, support systems, and protective devices must be compatible with the cable design. A high-quality cable cannot compensate for an unsuitable joint, poor installation practice, or incorrectly coordinated protection system.

Advantages Over Conventional Cable Options

Lower Weight and Easier Handling

One of the most practical advantages of an aluminum alloy conductor is reduced cable weight. Compared with a copper conductor of a comparable electrical application, the aluminum alloy design can reduce transportation and handling demands. This can be valuable on large construction sites, in high-rise buildings, in underground facilities, and on projects where access for lifting equipment is limited.

Reduced weight can also make cable drum handling easier and may lower the risk of damage caused by uncontrolled manual movement. Installation teams can plan pulling operations with more manageable loads, although all pulling tension and sidewall pressure limits must still be respected.

Improved Mechanical Strength Compared with Ordinary Aluminum

Ordinary aluminum conductors provide weight and resource advantages but may not offer the mechanical performance required for every installation condition. Aluminum alloy conductors are engineered to improve strength and handling behavior while retaining the basic benefits of aluminum. This makes them more suitable for cable routes that involve pulling, bending, support, or installation complexity.

The improvement in mechanical performance does not eliminate the need for correct installation. Cables must not be pulled beyond the specified tension, bent below the minimum radius, or subjected to impact and crushing. However, the alloy conductor provides a more robust foundation for practical construction than a basic aluminum conductor design.

Efficient Resource Utilization

Aluminum is widely available and has a lower density than copper. Using an aluminum alloy conductor can support more efficient use of conductor material in suitable applications. This may help project owners manage material costs, reduce transportation energy, and improve supply flexibility.

Resource efficiency must always be evaluated together with electrical design. The correct conductor cross-sectional area, voltage drop, fault current rating, and thermal performance must be selected for each project. When properly engineered, the aluminum alloy solution can provide a reliable and economical alternative to traditional conductor materials.

Stable Long-Term Operation

The combination of an aluminum alloy conductor, cross-linked polyethylene insulation, and an environmentally resistant sheath provides a stable cable system for long-term service. The 90°C continuous conductor temperature rating and 250°C short-circuit temperature capability support common medium-voltage and low-voltage distribution requirements.

Cross-linked polyethylene is also recognized for good resistance to thermal aging and stable dielectric performance. When manufactured with controlled extrusion, clean materials, accurate concentricity, and complete testing, the insulation system can provide dependable service in demanding power networks.

Broad Application Flexibility

The cable can be used in power grids, industrial facilities, buildings, public infrastructure, transportation systems, energy installations, and specialized projects. Its availability in different voltage classes, conductor sizes, core arrangements, and sheath configurations allows it to be matched with a wide variety of engineering requirements.

This flexibility is a significant advantage for contractors and distributors that need one product family to support multiple project types. It also simplifies technical coordination when a project includes both medium-voltage incoming feeders and low-voltage distribution circuits.

Application Fields

Building Engineering

In high-rise buildings and residential developments, the cable can be used for incoming power supplies, vertical distribution, transformer connections, and main distribution feeders. Its reduced weight may simplify transport through construction areas and support installation in cable shafts, service rooms, and electrical risers.

Hotels, hospitals, theaters, conference centers, libraries, museums, and large commercial buildings also require dependable power distribution. In these environments, the selected cable may need additional flame-retardant, low-smoke, or fire-performance characteristics. Those properties should be specified separately according to the building code and fire safety design.

Public Facilities and Government Infrastructure

Government buildings, financial centers, broadcasting and television centers, sports complexes, and other public facilities require stable power supply systems. Cable selection must consider load continuity, route accessibility, emergency power arrangements, mechanical protection, and maintenance requirements.

The aluminum alloy conductor cable can be integrated into these systems as a feeder or distribution cable where its voltage class, current capacity, environmental properties, and installation requirements are suitable. Its reduced weight can be useful in projects with long cable routes or limited structural loading capacity.

Industrial and Energy Facilities

Industrial and mining enterprises, petrochemical plants, steel facilities, power stations, and other energy-related projects often involve demanding operating environments. Cable design in these locations may need to address heat, oil, chemicals, dust, vibration, mechanical impact, or restricted installation spaces.

The base product can be adapted through suitable sheath materials, shielding systems, and construction features. For hazardous areas or locations with special fire and chemical requirements, the complete specification should be reviewed by the project electrical engineer before ordering.

Transportation Infrastructure

Airports, tunnels, metro systems, light rail systems, underground parking facilities, and civil defense structures rely on organized cable networks for traction support systems, lighting, ventilation, signaling, communications, and auxiliary power. Cable routes may be long, confined, humid, or difficult to access.

A cable with a controlled minimum bending radius, reliable sheath protection, and reduced handling weight can support more efficient installation in these environments. Where transportation projects impose strict smoke, flame, toxicity, or electromagnetic requirements, the applicable cable performance must be clearly stated in the procurement specification.

Marine, Offshore, and Commercial Projects

The product may also be considered for ships, offshore oil platforms, large shopping centers, parking facilities, and other specialized projects when the selected construction meets the environmental and safety requirements of the application. Offshore and marine installations may require additional resistance to salt spray, moisture, vibration, oil, fire, and movement.

In these cases, cable selection should include a detailed review of sheath properties, fire performance, water resistance, mechanical protection, installation method, and certification requirements. The manufacturer can evaluate project-specific requirements and recommend an appropriate construction within its product capabilities.

Installation and Service Recommendations

Correct installation is essential for obtaining the expected service life of any power cable. Before installation, the cable drum should be inspected for damage, moisture entry, loose flanges, or deformation. The cable identification and length should be checked against the project documentation.

Cable drums should be moved and stored according to approved handling procedures. They should not be dropped, rolled in an uncontrolled manner, or stored in locations where standing water can reach the cable ends. Cable ends should remain sealed until the cable is ready for preparation and termination.

The installation route should be checked for sharp edges, excessive bends, obstructions, water accumulation, and insufficient support. Rollers or suitable cable-laying equipment should be used to reduce friction. Pulling tension should remain within the limits specified for the cable construction, and sidewall pressure should be controlled at bends.

The minimum bending radius must be respected during laying, jointing, and final positioning. Medium-voltage single-core cables generally require a radius of at least fifteen times the cable outer diameter, while three-core cables generally require at least ten times the outer diameter. Low-voltage cable installations generally require at least seven times the outer diameter. If the project specification requires a larger radius, the larger value applies.

Installation should not be carried out below the recommended ambient temperature of 0°C unless a formally approved procedure provides suitable preheating and handling controls. Cold polymeric materials may be less flexible, and improper bending can damage the insulation or sheath even when no external defect is immediately visible.

Terminations and joints should be prepared by trained personnel using accessories compatible with the cable voltage, conductor material, insulation system, screen arrangement, and sheath. For medium-voltage cable, stress control and screen bonding are particularly important. Poor preparation can cause partial discharge, tracking, overheating, or premature failure.

After installation, acceptance testing should be conducted according to the applicable standard and project requirements. Test records should identify the cable route, drum number, test voltage, duration, ambient conditions, equipment used, and results. Proper documentation supports future maintenance and fault analysis.

Manufacturer Capabilities and Corporate Strengths

Wuxi Guanghuan Cable Co., Ltd. was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Guanlin Town, Yixing City, Jiangsu Province, an area recognized as an important cable manufacturing center. The company has a registered capital of RMB 400.8 million and covers more than 100,000 square meters, including over 45,000 square meters of building area.

The company operates more than 70 advanced production and testing lines and employs more than 140 people, including over 30 technical professionals. Its annual sales revenue is approximately RMB 2 billion, while its annual output value exceeds RMB 3 billion. These resources provide a substantial production base for power cables, electrical equipment wires, bare conductors, overhead insulated cables, rail transit cables, and renewable energy cable products.

The company offers more than 100 product categories and over 30,000 specifications under its registered product brand. This broad portfolio gives the manufacturer experience in conductor design, insulation systems, sheath technologies, testing procedures, and project-specific cable customization.

Its quality and management certifications include ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 50001, GB/T 29490, Green Management System certification, Social Responsibility Management System certification, and After-Sales Service Management System certification. These systems support controlled production, environmental management, occupational safety, intellectual property management, energy management, and customer service.

The company’s products have received CCC, TÜV, product carbon footprint, China Energy-Saving and Environmentally Friendly Product, and other certifications. It has also been recognized as a National High-Tech Enterprise, a Jiangsu Specialized, Sophisticated, Distinctive and Innovative SME, a Jiangsu Provincial Green Factory, a National Intellectual Property Advantage Enterprise, and a Quality Integrity Enterprise.

Qualification and capability verification for power cables and conductors has been completed through relevant State Grid Corporation of China processes. The company serves power companies and major energy and engineering enterprises across China, demonstrating experience in products used in demanding infrastructure environments.

The manufacturer emphasizes quality management throughout the complete production process. Online eccentricity monitors, high-voltage series resonance testers, partial discharge detectors, and other specialized equipment help control cable geometry, dielectric performance, and finished-product reliability.

Why Select This Cable for Power Infrastructure

For project owners, the value of a cable is determined by more than its purchase price. The cable must meet the electrical design, be practical to transport and install, remain reliable under normal and fault conditions, and have sufficient technical documentation for approval and maintenance.

The aluminum alloy conductor plastic insulated power cable addresses these needs through a combination of reduced weight, optimized mechanical strength, stable electrical performance, cross-linked polyethylene insulation, and configurable sheath construction. It is suitable for project teams seeking an alternative to heavier traditional conductor solutions without sacrificing the requirements of modern distribution networks.

The manufacturer’s broad production capacity and multi-standard manufacturing capability further support project flexibility. Customers can discuss voltage level, conductor size, core configuration, sheath requirements, fire performance, environmental conditions, testing procedures, and delivery arrangements before finalizing the product specification.

For international projects, the ability to manufacture and test according to IEC, British, or American standards can simplify technical coordination. For domestic projects, production according to GB/T 31840-2025 provides a clear basis for design and acceptance. In both cases, project-specific confirmation remains necessary because cable performance depends on the selected construction and installation conditions.

Selection Checklist for Engineering Buyers

Before ordering, the buyer should confirm the system rated voltage and maximum system voltage. A cable intended for a 26/35kV system should not be selected solely by nominal voltage wording; the complete network configuration and standard designation must be reviewed.

The required conductor cross-sectional area should be determined using continuous current, ambient temperature, installation method, grouping, voltage drop, short-circuit current, and future load growth. The conductor size must be selected by calculation rather than by route length alone.

The buyer should specify whether a single-core or three-core cable is required, as this affects bending radius, current rating, magnetic considerations, installation arrangement, and accessory selection. The required screen, armor, metallic protection, and grounding arrangement should also be identified.

Environmental requirements should include indoor or outdoor installation, direct burial or duct installation, exposure to water, oil, chemicals, sunlight, heat, vibration, impact, and fire. If low-smoke, flame-retardant, halogen-free, or special fire-resistance characteristics are required, they must be stated clearly.

Finally, the purchasing specification should identify the applicable standard, routine tests, type tests, witness tests, inspection documents, packaging requirements, delivery length, and acceptance procedures. Clear technical communication helps avoid delays and ensures that the delivered cable matches the project design.

Q&A

What is the main purpose of this cable?

The cable is used for fixed transmission and distribution of electrical energy in low-voltage and medium-voltage systems. It is suitable for building power distribution, urban grids, industrial facilities, public infrastructure, transport projects, and other fixed-installation applications.

What voltage range can the product cover?

The product family includes 0.6/1kV low-voltage designs and medium-voltage designs up to 26/35kV, with related product structures referenced for cable ratings from 3.6/6kV to 35kV. The final voltage rating must be confirmed according to the selected design and applicable standard.

Why use an aluminum alloy conductor instead of a conventional copper conductor?

An aluminum alloy conductor can reduce cable weight, support easier transportation and installation, improve resource utilization, and provide a cost-effective alternative in suitable applications. Its alloy composition and conductor structure are designed to provide better mechanical performance than ordinary aluminum while maintaining stable electrical conductivity.

Does the cable use cross-linked polyethylene insulation?

Yes. Cross-linked polyethylene is the typical insulation material described for this product family. It provides stable electrical insulation, heat resistance, and aging resistance. Other insulation or sheath requirements should be confirmed according to the project specification.

What is the normal maximum conductor operating temperature?

For the referenced cross-linked polyethylene insulated designs, the maximum permissible long-term conductor operating temperature is generally 90°C.

What temperature can the conductor reach during a short circuit?

When the short-circuit duration does not exceed five seconds, the maximum allowable conductor temperature is generally 250°C. The actual short-circuit performance must be verified for the selected cable construction and protection system.

What is the minimum installation temperature?

The ambient temperature during installation should generally not be lower than 0°C. Special procedures may be required for installation in colder conditions.

What bending radius should be used?

For medium-voltage designs, the minimum bending radius is generally not less than ten times the outer diameter for three-core cables and fifteen times the outer diameter for single-core cables. For the referenced low-voltage design, the minimum bending radius is generally not less than seven times the outer diameter.

Which standards can be used for production?

The product is manufactured according to GB/T 31840-2025. Depending on regional or project requirements, it can also be manufactured and tested according to applicable IEC, British, or American standards.

Where can this cable be installed?

Typical applications include urban power grids, high-rise buildings, residential buildings, hotels, hospitals, industrial plants, mines, petrochemical facilities, steel projects, airports, tunnels, metro systems, light rail systems, underground parking facilities, commercial complexes, and other infrastructure projects.

Can the cable be customized?

Yes. Cable voltage, conductor cross-sectional area, core arrangement, insulation system, screen, sheath material, fire performance, environmental resistance, testing, and packaging can be coordinated according to project requirements and the applicable standard.

What testing equipment supports quality control?

The manufacturer uses equipment such as online eccentricity monitors, high-voltage series resonance testers, and partial discharge detectors, together with other production and testing equipment. These systems support control of insulation geometry, dielectric performance, and finished-cable quality.

Conclusion

The aluminum alloy conductor plastic insulated power cable rated up to 26/35kV is a practical solution for modern power transmission and distribution. Its aluminum alloy conductor provides reduced weight, improved handling, and useful mechanical strength. Its plastic insulation system, typically cross-linked polyethylene, provides stable electrical performance, heat resistance, and aging resistance. Its sheath structure supports environmental and mechanical protection in a wide range of fixed-installation conditions.

With long-term conductor operation generally permitted at 90°C and short-circuit conductor temperatures up to 250°C for no more than five seconds, the cable can meet many common requirements in low-voltage and medium-voltage systems. Installation guidelines covering temperature, bending radius, pulling, and termination must be followed to obtain the intended service performance.

Manufacturing according to GB/T 31840-2025, with the ability to support IEC, British, and American standards, makes the product suitable for domestic and international projects. Advanced production lines, online monitoring, high-voltage testing, partial discharge detection, technical personnel, and comprehensive management certifications further strengthen the manufacturer’s ability to deliver consistent products.

For building, industrial, infrastructure, transportation, energy, and specialized projects, this cable offers a balanced combination of electrical reliability, mechanical performance, installation convenience, and resource efficiency. Proper engineering selection and professional installation will allow the product to contribute to safe, stable, and economical power distribution over its service life.

References

GB/T 31840-2025, Power Cables with Extruded Insulation and Rated Voltages up to and Including 35kV.

International Electrotechnical Commission, IEC standards for power cables with extruded insulation and rated voltages applicable to medium-voltage distribution systems.

International Electrotechnical Commission, IEC guidance on cable testing, conductor resistance, insulation performance, and routine production inspection.

British Standards Institution, applicable British standards for power cables, cable construction, testing, and installation.

American cable standards and engineering practices applicable to insulated power cables and electrical distribution systems.

Cross-Linked Polyethylene Insulated Power Cable Technical Operating Characteristics, including conductor temperature, short-circuit temperature, installation temperature, and bending radius requirements.

Wuxi Guanghuan Cable Co., Ltd., product and manufacturing information for aluminum alloy conductor plastic insulated power cables.

Product: Aluminum Alloy Conductor Plastic Insulated Power Cable (Rated Voltage up to 26/35kV)