Design and application of aerial systems using insulated and covered wire and cable

Insulated and covered wires and cables have been used in aerial power conductor applications for over fifty years. Despite this long history, the design, application and operation of these different types of conductor constructions are frequently misunderstood and confused with one another. Electric utilities have increasing needs for greater reliability and higher quality of service, growing concerns over electromagnetic fields, increased difficulty in obtaining right-of-way and tree trimming, and difficulty in maintaining clearances in congested areas. These challenges have resulted in expanded interest in using covered or insulated cables in aerial systems. This paper: (a) describes the differences between the constructions; (b) answers questions, concerns and misconceptions about these aerial designs; and (c) ranks the performance of each relative to desired attributes. A logical system for classifying covered wire and cable is also proposed.