Conductor Material
The conductor shall be high-conductivity annealed copper (minimum 99.90% purity) or oxygen-free copper (OFC), whichever is appropriate for the cable type.
For special use-cases (e.g., overhead/utility cables) an aluminium-based conductor (for example, aluminium-magnesium-silicon alloy) may be used, provided it meets mechanical and electrical requirements.
The conductor shall meet a conductivity benchmark of ≥ 100% IACS (for copper) or the equivalent specified in standard (for aluminium alloy) to minimise electrical losses.
Conductor Construction & Cross Section
Stranded configuration: The conductor shall be made from multiple fine wires (not a single solid core) to improve flexibility and fatigue resistance.
The cross-sectional area shall be sized correctly for the intended current-carrying capacity and application (e.g., for a building wire, 1.0 mm², 1.5 mm², 2.5 mm² etc; for overhead conductor, much larger).
The DC-resistance at 20 °C shall be specified and within accepted limits by standard. (This ensures appropriate electrical performance.)
Insulation & Jacket Materials
The insulation and outer jacket must be made of high-quality materials (PVC, XLPE, TPE, LSZH etc) selected based on application: ambient temperature, fire-rating, bending/stress.
The conductor-material and insulation combination must ensure good dielectric performance, mechanical durability and corrosion/oxidation resistance.
Quality Assurance & Standards Compliance
All conductors and cables shall comply with applicable international / national standards: e.g., IEC 60228 (for conductor class), IS 8130 (in India for copper conductors), IEC 61089 (for overhead aluminium conductors) etc.
Raw material certificates must be traceable: purity of copper/aluminium, mechanical properties of alloy, conductor stranding geometry, finishing.
The manufacturer (AOUMIC) must carry out routine tests: conductivity, tensile strength, elongation, DC-resistance, insulation breakdown, dimensional/tolerance checks.
The product must carry appropriate markings: conductor material, size (mm²), temperature rating, standard mark, manufacturer name/brand, batch number.
Performance Attributes & Benefits
Lower resistive losses → improved efficiency and reduced heat build-up.
Superior corrosion resistance (especially for aluminium/alloy types in overhead or outdoor applications) giving longer service life. For example, aluminium-magnesium-silicon alloys are known for improved strength and corrosion resistance.
Good mechanical flexibility (via stranded conductors) reducing risk of fatigue/failure when bent or subject to vibration.
Reliability under rated temperature and ambient conditions with minimal degradation over time.