So what is a smart grid?Here is the concept of smart grid: smart grid is also known as "grid 2.0", which is built on the basis of integrated, high-speed two-way communication network, through the application of advanced sensing and measurement technology, equipment technology, control methods and decision support system technology, to realize the reliability, security, economy, efficiency of grid operation andIts main features include self-healing, motivating and protecting users, resisting attacks, and providing power quality that meets the needs of users in the 21st century.。

One of the main goals of the smart grid is to improve the energy efficiency of the grid and enhance its economy, which is simply called "peak elimination and valley filling", i.e., through the dispatch of the generation side or the consumption side, some of the loads in the peak load period are arranged to be loaded into the low valley load period, so as to cut down the peak loads of the system, increase the valley loads of the system and improve the load rate, thus realizing the goal of improving the economics of the grid.Thus, the goal of improving the economics of the grid is realized.This type of economy is based on the premise of security and reliability.Because if security and reliability are not satisfactory, the pursuit of economy will lose its basis.As the physical layer foundation of the smart grid, the overall quality of the cable is the basic guarantee for the smooth operation of the whole system, and is playing an increasingly important role.

However, in ensuring the safety and reliability of grid operation, copper cables have obvious advantages.On the one hand, the same cross-section and length of the copper cable and aluminum alloy cable, copper by virtue of better conductivity (about 1.6 times that of aluminum alloy), has a greater flow-carrying capacity, which establishes the first safeguard for the safe and reliable transmission of current.On the other hand, compared to aluminum alloy cables, copper cables are more resistant to high temperatures.The melting temperature of copper can reach 1080 ℃, while the aluminum alloy is only 660 ℃, in the high-temperature environment of the fire-resistant cable requirements in the 750 ℃ to 1000 ℃ conditions can still maintain the function of electricity, obviously copper cable can better meet this requirement.Thus, copper cable for the safe and reliable operation of the smart grid to build another guarantee.

In addition, grid operation experience shows that 80% of power cable failures occur in the joints.Copper is much better at eliminating such failures than aluminum alloys.Even if the copper is oxidized, the copper oxide generated is still a good conductor, which can ensure the electrical connection performance of the joints and terminals.And aluminum alloy cable joints or terminals after oxidation, the generation of aluminum oxide is an insulator, will lead to the joints or terminals conductivity degradation, thus exacerbating the joints or terminals heat and thus make the oxidation even more serious, thus the vicious circle triggered by the cable system failures.As the smart grid on the safety and reliability of higher requirements, the use of copper cables is undoubtedly the optimal choice.

Copper cables also have superior resistance to stretching, shrinkage, creep and fracture, as well as excellent flexibility, corrosion resistance, ductility, etc., can long meet the smart grid in a variety of climatic environments, stable and reliable operation, which is also aluminum alloy cables can not be.

The future smart grid will benefit thousands of households with its intelligence, and as the arterial line of the smart grid, copper cable will pave the way for the better development of the smart grid.

Last Article：Be sure to watch!Safety requirements and protective measures when using cables!

Next Article：No More