What is Copper Clad Steel Wire Used For?

Copper Clad Steel wire is a composite material that combines the mechanical strength of steel with the excellent electrical conductivity of copper. Its unique properties make it a versatile solution for numerous industrial and technological applications. Below, we explore its composition, advantages, and the wide range of industries where it is employed.

Copper Clad Steel wire is made by bonding a layer of copper onto a steel core. The copper layer provides high conductivity, while the steel core adds tensile strength, making the wire robust and durable. Common grades of CCS wire feature conductivity levels such as 30% or 40% of the International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS), making them suitable for applications requiring moderate conductivity and exceptional strength.

Key Features of Copper Clad Steel Wire

1. Durability: The steel core ensures high tensile strength, resisting mechanical damage and reducing breakage during installation or use.

2. Corrosion Resistance: The copper layer protects the steel core from environmental damage, enhancing its lifespan in harsh conditions.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: CCS wire is a more economical alternative to pure copper, especially for applications where conductivity and strength balance is crucial.

4. Flexibility: The mild steel core allows the wire to be bent and handled easily during installation.

5. Anti-Theft Design: Its lower scrap value compared to pure copper wires deters theft.

Applications of Copper Clad Steel Wire

CCS wire is used across multiple industries due to its dual properties of strength and conductivity. Below are the main applications:

1. Telecommunications

In telecommunications, CCS wire is employed in the production of coaxial cables and antenna cables. Its high-frequency conductivity ensures efficient signal transmission, making it indispensable in modern communication systems.

2. Power Grids

CCS wire is utilized in grounding and bonding applications within power distribution networks. Its strength and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for ensuring system safety and stability.

3. Railway Systems

Railway signaling systems and power supply lines use CCS wire for their durability and low maintenance requirements. It is also used in grounding systems to prevent electrical faults.

4. Aerospace and Military

In aerospace and military applications, CCS wire is valued for its lightweight design and resilience. It is used in specialized cables and grounding systems that must endure extreme conditions.

5. Tracer Wire

Tracer wire applications involve using CCS wire to mark underground utilities, such as gas or water pipelines, for easy detection during excavation. Its robust construction ensures long-term reliability.

6. Grounding and Earthing

The wire is widely used in grounding systems for electrical installations, providing a safe path for fault currents and minimizing potential hazards.

Benefits of Using Copper Clad Steel Wire

• Improved Safety: Its strength reduces installation risks, while its conductivity ensures reliable performance.

• Sustainability: Copper's natural resistance to corrosion reduces maintenance costs and extends the wire's lifespan.

• Versatility: copper clad steel flat steel comes in various configurations, including stranded and plated versions, to meet specific needs.

• High-Frequency Efficiency: Its ability to conduct high-frequency currents efficiently makes it ideal for RF and signal applications.

Technical Specifications and Standards

Common standards governing the production of CCS wire include:

• ASTM B227: Specifications for hard-drawn copper-clad steel wire.

• ASTM B228: Guidelines for concentric-lay-stranded CCS conductors.

• ASTM B910: Standards for annealed copper-clad steel wire.

CCS wire is available in single and multi-strand configurations, ranging from 1-strand to 19-strand cables, offering flexibility for diverse applications.

Conclusion

Copper Clad Steel wire bridges the gap between strength and conductivity, making it a preferred choice for industries ranging from telecommunications to aerospace. Its durability, cost-efficiency, and adaptability ensure it remains a vital component in modern infrastructure and technology.

Ziyu New Material Technology Co., Ltd. Located in Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, China, the company is a high-tech enterprise integrating independent research and development, production, trade and service of professional lightning protection grounding products, committed to the research and development of copper clad steel products for more than ten years. The main production and sales of copper clad steel grounding rod, copper clad steel flat steel, copper clad steel round steel, flexible graphite grounding body, graphite resistance cloth, graphite wire, exothermic welding mold, exothermic welding powder, lightning protection grounding accessories and other products. Our products are certified by national authorities. The company has experienced R & D personnel, equipped with advanced production and inspection equipment. Has a complete and scientific quality management system, has passed the ISO9001 quality management system certification.