Copper Clad Steel (CCS) Wire is a steel wire with a thin layer of copper encasing the core- Changzhou Yuzisenhan Electronic Co., Ltd

Copper Clad Steel (CCS) Wire is a steel wire with a thin layer of copper encasing the core

Advantages and Disadvantages of CCS Wire

Copper Clad Steel (CCS) Wire is a steel wire with a thin layer of copper encasing the core. The copper coating is highly conductive, making this wire ideal for electrical applications. The copper also offers corrosion resistance and is very durable. In addition, the steel core provides high tensile strength and mechanical fatigue resistance. This makes copper clad steel wires a suitable choice for outdoor use and in harsh environments.

CCS wire can be used for a variety of purposes, including grounding and earthing applications, line tracing to locate underground utilities, telephone drop lines and as the inner conductor in coaxial cables. It is also very common in power distribution channels as a grounding conductor due to its superior tensile strength and resistance to shear.

Unlike solid copper, CCS is not subject to the same issues as pure aluminum when exposed to moisture or salt. This is important to keep in mind when choosing a conductor for marine or wet environments. Additionally, CCS is more cost effective and easier to work with than solid copper due to its lower weight and less expensive price point.

Another advantage of copper clad steel is its low scrap value. As a result, this type of conductor is more difficult to steal and can help deter if not completely stop theft from happening in the first place. This is especially important in areas with high rates of copper theft.

CCS is also more resistant to corrosion than copper, which can help extend its lifespan and reduce maintenance costs in the long run. This is especially true for harsh environments such as marine or industrial applications, where a cable’s conductor is exposed to chemicals and other substances that can cause damage.

Additionally, CCS has a higher tensile strength than copper, which can reduce the amount of suspension wire that is required in overhead applications. This can save money and space on installation and removal projects. It also allows for increased span lengths of telephone drop lines and can eliminate the need for additional steel wire suspenders up to a certain level, depending on the application.

The disadvantages of CCS include its lower temperature rating, which can lead to reduced energy efficiency when compared to copper. It is also not as flexible and can be more brittle than copper, which can cause problems during handling. Additionally, copper clad steel does not conduct electricity as well as copper, which can lead to voltage drops over longer distances.

Because of these issues, many AHJs and builders prefer to use solid copper rather than CCS for grounding applications. It is also important to ensure that the proper terminals and lugs are used for CCS to reduce the risk of corrosion, shorting or failure. When purchasing CCS, it is essential to make sure that the product is correctly sized for its intended use, as incorrectly sized cables may not meet UL and TIA standards.