In any power distribution system, there is some risk of faults, which can lead to phase-to-ground arcing, phase-to-phase arcing, and downed conductors. These arcs and energized downed conductors are common sources of ignition and can result in devastating wildfires. Utility companies use tree wire and spacer systems to mitigate these risks. AerialGuard® Cable Systems enhance the effectiveness of covered conductors in reducing fire risk, especially in densely forested areas.

American Wire Group is proud to offer AerialGuard® Cable Systems, the perfect solution for your tree wire and spacer cable needs. AerialGuard® tree wire and spacer cables are made from the highest quality materials and are designed to provide superior strength and durability while being easy to install and maintain. 

In case of incidental contact with wildlife or trees, the outer layer prevents short circuits and temporary faults. With various sizes and configurations available, AerialGuard® cable deliver reliable performance for a wide range of applications.

Introduction to Tree Wire and Spacer Cable Systems

Tree wire power cables are usually installed in a flat or nearly flat configuration, with similar spacing as other covered or bare aerial conductors but with a narrower right of way. Tree wire cables are made of concentric or compact stranded conductor materials with three non-metallic layers.

Spacer cable power systems are installed in a diamond configuration using spacer hardware, with uniform spacing between each cable. The cable assembly and spacers are supported by a bare messenger cable made of galvanized steel or bare ACSR wire. Spacer cable systems take up the least amount of space, so they have the narrowest right of way.

What Are the Benefits of Using Tree Wire & Spacer Cables?

Covered with a track-resistant, abrasion-resistant outer layer, tree wire and spacer cables both supply continuous power without the risk of flashovers or short circuits in the event of accidental contact between cables and wildlife or trees. When installed properly, they prevent system damage, outages, and fires. We recommend using a thermoset (XLPE) covering system to mitigate fire danger.

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Differences Between Tree Wire and Spacer Cables

Tree wire and spacer cables are two types of aerial cable systems used in the electrical industry. Here we’ll discuss the benefits, applications, and installation methods of each to help you determine which is the best option for your project.

Benefits

Both types of cable assemblies can be used in overhead primary and secondary power distribution systems to prevent faults due to falling trees or where space is limited. The cables feature a sunlight-resistant, track-resistant three-layer covering that protects against short circuits due to weather, wildlife, or foliage contact. This design is key to mitigating forest fires, which have devastating effects on the environment and wildlife.

Applications

Tree wire cables are typically used in low- and medium-voltage applications, such as residential areas with minimal environmental interference. 

Installation

Tree wire cables are often installed in a flat configuration, while spacer cables are installed using a messenger cable and spacers.

 

AerialGuard Cable Systems

AerialGuard® tree wire and spacer cables are a type of insulated power cable that is used for high-voltage power transmission. The aerial cables consist of an aluminum conductor insulated with a dielectric material. The dielectric material is used to protect the conductors from electrical damage or damage due to environmental factors like weather and contact with wildlife.

These cables are ideal for primary or secondary overhead distribution with space constraints and requirements for rights of way. Covering is useful in avoiding direct shorts and instant flashovers if tree branches or other objects come into contact with transmission lines. Their tight configuration reduces the amount of room and hardware needed for line installation, which is especially useful in crowded areas like alleyways or narrow corridors.

Our AerialGuard® Cable Systems are designed for aerial distribution systems rated at 15 kV, 25 kV, or 35 kV with limited space. Customers can request other constructions for different system voltages if needed. We have thermoplastic (MDPE, LLDPE, and HDPE) and thermoset (XLPE) covering systems available.

 

Types of Tree Wire and Spacer Cables From AWG

AWG’s AerialGuard® tree wire and spacer cables  are designed for low, medium, and high-voltage applications. The types of tree wire and spacer cables available are divided into AerialGuard® 15 kV, 25 kV, or 35 kV Aerial Cables. Click here to see a comprehensive list of all our cables and their specifications.

Selecting Your Tree Wire and Spacer Cable System

You have many options to choose from for your tree wire and spacer cable system. Each product offers a different variation of conductor, covering, and standards. The cable design consists of the conductor and three non-metallic layers: a conductor shield, an inner covering layer, and the outer covering. Here are the options you can select for each component:

Conductor Options

  • ACSR/AW (concentric stranded)
  • AS/AC (AWAC) (concentric stranded)
  • AAAC (6201-T81, concentric stranded)
  • AAC (1350-H19, compact stranded)
  • ACSR (concentric stranded)

Conductor Shield

  • Extruded semiconducting thermoplastic shield, which is free stripping from the conductor and bonded to the covering.

Inner and Outer Covering Options 

  • LDPE, MDPE, or HDPE / TK-MDPE or TK-HDPE: Two-layer low-, medium- or high-density polyethylene covering (LDPE, MDPE or HDPE), where the outer layer is track-resistant (TK-MDPE or TK-HDPE). All layers are bonded together. The outer layer is black or gray, track-resistant, and sunlight-resistant. 
  • XLPE / TK-XLPE: Two-layer crosslinked polyethylene covering (XLPE), where the outer layer is track resistant (TK-XLPE). All layers are bonded together. The outer layer is black or gray, track-resistant, and sunlight-resistant.

We also sell system accessories, including spacers, brackets, insulators, and other hardware to complete the package.

Standards & Specifications

All of our cables meet or exceed the requirements of ICEA S-121-733: Tree Wire and Messenger-Supported Spacer Cables. We ensure to meet all safety standards set dependent on the specific product you need, such as:

  • ASTM B230 – Aluminum 1350–H19 Wire for Electrical Purposes
  • ASTM B231 – Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum 1350 Conductors
  • ASTM B232 – Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Coated-Steel Reinforced (ACSR)
  • ASTM B502 – Aluminum-Clad Steel Core Wire for Use in Overhead Electrical Aluminum Conductors
  • ASTM B549 – Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Aluminum-Clad Steel Reinforced for Use in Overhead Electrical Conductors
  • ASTM B398 – Aluminum-Alloy 6201-T81 and 6201-T83 Wire for Electrical Purposes 
  • ASTM B399 – Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum-Alloy 6201-T81 Conductors
  • ASTM B400 – Compact Round Concentric-Lay-Stranded Conductors 
  • (For LDPE, MDPE, or HDPE / TK-MDPE or TK-HDPE Coverings) ASTM D1248 – Polyethylene Plastics Extrusion Materials for Wire and Cable
  • (For XLPE / TK-XLPE Coverings) ASTM D2656 – Cross-linked Polyethylene Insulation for Wire and Cable Rated 2001 to 35,000 V

Choose AWG for Your Tree Wire & Spacer Cable Systems and Accessories

American Wire Group has the expertise and product selection to ensure that your tree wire and spacer cable system is installed correctly and performing at its best. Together with our cable solutions, we offer Aerial Cable components including spacers, insulators, brackets, hardware, and other supporting accessories to complete the system. Our wide range of products and accessories allows us to customize an AWG cable system that meets your specific needs and budget. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to answer any questions you may have. Contact us or request a quote today to get started.