5 ms·

would this be useful for better power lines? assuming electrical conductivity is about the same, as implied by the article

• philipkglass 1y ago
  Plain copper is already too expensive for power lines, and this alloy is more expensive than copper alone. Transmission and distribution lines are typically made with aluminum conductors layered over a steel core for mechanical strength: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium-conductor_steel-reinforced_cable https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminium-conductor_steel-rein... Aluminum is a worse conductor than copper on a volumetric basis but a better conductor on a mass basis, which is important for overhead lines supporting their own weight against gravity. It also costs significantly less than copper.
  • chuzz 1y ago
    My point was that maybe the improved mechanical performance would help with their own weight. I concede that a more expensive, heavier overhead line that could hang for longer distances does not sound good unless costs are dominated by tower construction