Skip to main content
Home  ›  FAQs  ›  Electrical Cables
Electrical Cables

What is the maximum operating temperature of a covered conductor?

Quick answer

APAR lists an operating temperature of up to 95°C for its covered conductors, and up to 105°C for the AL59 ACS version. The limit applies to the finished conductor, because the XLPE covering restricts the temperature as well as the metal underneath. A bare conductor of the same type may be allowed to run much hotter, so the ampacity from a bare-line table should not be carried over to a covered line without checking.

To test a feeder, compare the expected conductor temperature at peak load and hot ambient conditions with these figures. The conductor types offered are AAAC, ACSR, ACSS and AL59 ACS, in sizes from 100 to 400 mm² and voltage classes from 11 kV to 132 kV. See the APAR covered conductor page for the range.

Looking for the right cable for your project?

Get expert guidance on grade, size and standards from APAR Cable Solutions.

Request a quote →