Distinguish AAC bare aluminum conductor from steel-core ACSR using named construction and codeword data.
Checkable specification fields
These are examples from the named references, not assertions about a reel you have not shown us. Match the actual jacket, tag and part number before using a product claim.
| Field | Documented example / boundary | Source |
|---|---|---|
| AAC material | Southwire AAC construction: concentrically stranded aluminum 1350-H19, with no steel core described. | [1] |
| ACSR material | Southwire ACSR: aluminum 1350-H19 strands surrounding a steel core; standard core wire is class A galvanized. | [2] |
| AAC table example | Southwire lists ROSE 4 AWG as 7 strands and 231 mil nominal outside diameter. | [1] |
| ACSR table example | Southwire lists PENGUIN 4/0 AWG as 6 aluminum strands and 563 mil nominal outside diameter; compare exact codeword before use. | [2] |
Construction is the differentiator
AAC lacks the referenced steel reinforcement; ACSR has an internal steel core. An exterior photo does not disclose this reliably. Read the maker’s codeword, nominal AWG/kcmil and strand construction from a tag or specification, then corroborate with a clear disconnected cut-end photo where possible.
- Record codeword, conductor material, nominal size, strand count and diameter.
- Do not use two different codeword examples as if they were same-size equivalents.
- Treat observed core coating or corrosion as condition, not a guessed grade.
Do not substitute a conductor table for a lot test
Southwire’s ASTM and dimension references describe its named products. They do not authenticate an unidentified reel or establish a voltage, ampacity, current acceptance or salvage price. A useful inquiry includes exact tag data, length basis, reel ID and condition.
- Separate bare AAC/ACSR from copper-clad, insulated and composite constructions.
- Ask for stored-outdoors and handling history if known.
Source notes and scope
The linked references support the specific examples above. Product designs and standards can change; seller-supplied markings, measured length and current condition require separate verification. Nothing here states that this buyer stocks, tests, guarantees or accepts a particular cable, or offers installation advice.