8.7/15kV Aluminum Conductor Power Cable AL/XLPE/CTS/PVC for MV Distribution Systems

1. Product Overview

The 8.7/15kV Aluminum Conductor Power Cable (AL/XLPE/CTS/PVC) is designed for reliable medium voltage power transmission and distribution in utility networks, industrial facilities, substations, and infrastructure projects.

This medium voltage XLPE cable uses a high-conductivity aluminium conductor combined with XLPE insulation, copper tape screen (CTS), and a durable PVC outer sheath. The cable provides excellent electrical performance, stable operation, and long service life in underground and industrial power distribution systems.

Compared with copper conductor cables, the aluminium conductor design offers a lighter weight and more cost-effective solution for large-scale medium voltage projects while maintaining reliable current carrying performance.

Typical applications include:

• Medium voltage distribution networks
• Substation incoming and outgoing feeders
• Industrial plant power supply systems
• Underground electrical transmission
• Renewable energy projects
• Commercial and infrastructure developments

Designed for demanding operating environments, this 8.7/15kV aluminium power cable provides a practical solution for customers seeking reliable performance and optimized project costs.

2. Cable Construction

The cable structure is designed to ensure electrical stability and mechanical protection:

Construction Advantages

• Aluminium conductor reduces cable weight and installation difficulty
• XLPE insulation provides excellent electrical insulation performance
• Copper tape screen improves electric field control and grounding protection
• PVC sheath provides protection against moisture, abrasion, and environmental exposure

3. Technical Specifications

Operating Performance

• Maximum conductor operating temperature: 90°C
• Maximum short-circuit temperature: 250°C (5 seconds)
• Minimum bending radius: 15 × overall cable diameter
• Suitable for direct burial installation
• Designed service life: 25–30 years under normal conditions

4. Application Areas

Utility & Substation Projects

The cable is widely used in medium voltage grid systems for:

• Substation connections
• Distribution feeders
• Urban power networks

Its stable electrical performance helps ensure continuous power delivery.

Industrial Power Systems

Suitable for:

• Manufacturing plants
• Mining facilities
• Chemical plants
• Large commercial buildings

The cable provides reliable power transmission for equipment with continuous operating requirements.

Renewable Energy Projects

Commonly applied in:

• Solar power plants
• Wind farms
• Energy storage systems

The aluminium conductor helps reduce transportation and installation costs for large projects.

Underground Distribution Networks

Suitable for:

• Direct burial installation
• Cable ducts
• Underground cable trenches

5. Key Engineering Benefits

Cost-Effective Aluminium Conductor Design

The aluminium conductor provides a lightweight alternative to copper cables, reducing transportation and installation costs for large-scale projects.

Reliable XLPE Insulation

XLPE insulation offers:

• High dielectric strength
• Low insulation loss
• Excellent thermal stability
• Long operational life

Improved Electrical Safety

The copper tape screen provides:

• Fault current path
• Electromagnetic shielding
• Improved system safety

Suitable for Harsh Installation Conditions

The cable can withstand:

• Underground environments
• Temperature variations
• Moisture exposure
• Mechanical stress during installation

6. Quality Control & Testing

Each cable is manufactured under strict quality management procedures.

Testing includes:

• Conductor resistance test
• Insulation thickness inspection
• High voltage withstand test
• Partial discharge test (if required)
• Sheath integrity test
• Dimensional inspection

Test reports and quality documents can be provided for project approval and technical evaluation.

7. FAQ

Q1: What are the advantages of aluminium conductor cable compared with copper cable?

Aluminium conductor cables are lighter and more economical, making them suitable for large-scale medium voltage projects where installation cost and cable weight are important factors.

Q2: Is this 8.7/15kV cable suitable for underground installation?

Yes. The Al/XLPE/CTS/PVC structure is commonly used for underground distribution networks, cable trenches, and duct installations.

Q3: What is the operating temperature of XLPE insulated cable?

The normal operating temperature of XLPE insulation is up to 90°C, with short-circuit temperature capability up to 250°C.

Q4: What is the difference between CTS and armoured cable?

CTS (Copper Tape Screen) mainly provides electrical shielding and grounding protection, while armour (such as SWA/STA) provides additional mechanical protection.

Q5: Can this cable be used for industrial projects?

Yes. It is widely used in factories, substations, mining projects, and other medium voltage industrial power systems.