ABC cables

XLPE/HDPE insulated power conductors of Aluminium (Neutral conductor and street lighting conductor if and when necessary) are laid together (twisted) around a high tensile standard and galvanized steel (Aluminium Alloy may be used) insulated or bare messenger wire to form the Aerial Bunched Cable. This assembly is directly strung on to distribution pole/towers by means of standard hardware available in the market but care shall be taken to render the messenger wire completely insulated from Earthing at any point of distribution in case of HT ABC.
The XLPE (Cross-linked Polyethylene) insulation is black in colour and is stabilized against deterioration caused by exposure to direct sunlight and ultraviolet radiation. XLPE is cross-linkable low-density polyethylene, which is made thermo set by special formulation from base polymer of thermoplastic low-density polyethylene. XLPE combines the best electrical properties of LDPE and superior thermo mechanical properties.

In comparison to bare overhead power distribution lines, ABC has very high reliability in maintaining services because power and neutral conductors are insulated with the best dielectric medium, resulting in the following advantages:
Less fault rate on account of good protection against line and ground fault by high winds or falling trees or birds especially in hilly areas & forests as encountered in rural distribution networks.
High insulation resistance to earth in all seasons and polluted atmospheres. Negligible leakage currents and low losses.
Multiple circuits of Power and Telephone cables could be strung in the same set of poles or any other supports like walls etc.
Better adaptability to run concurrently with existing overhead bare conductor system without any interference.
High capacitance and low inductance leading to low impedance of lines.
Lower voltage drop, higher current capacities. VIS-À-VIS Better Voltage Regulation.
Longer spans and longer distance lines are possible with better system stability.
ABC cables are much safer than bare Conductors.
It can be over hung in dense vegetation and forests.
Additional connections can be easily and quickly made with hot – line connectors.
Total lines costs are reduced.
Maintenance is very easy.