AWA Armored Cable
AWA armored cable – aluminum wire armored cable, widely used in various power distribution systems. The structure is commonly single-core, featuring an aluminum wire armor layer design, which provides excellent mechanical protection while maintaining the electromagnetic compatibility required for single-core applications. This cable is well-suited for fixed installations in industrial environments that require rugged power solutions. Click to consult ZMS Cable!
AWA Armored Cable Common Size
Aluminium Wire Armour (AWA) Cables are commonly found in single-core application power distribution and are available in a variety of conductor sizes to meet different industrial power needs. The following are the types of common sizes:
185mm² Single Core AWA Armoured Cable
The 185mm² single core AWA armored cable is a high capacity power cable designed for single core installations in industrial and utility environments. It features stranded copper conductors, XLPE insulation, and aluminum wire armor (AWA) providing excellent mechanical protection without generating magnetic interference.
Cable Structure
- Conductor: 185mm² Plain Annealed Copper (Class 2 Stranded)
- Insulation: XLPE (Cross-linked Polyethylene)
- Inner Sheath (optional): PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen)
- Armour: Aluminum Wire Armour (AWA) – suitable for single-core cables to prevent magnetic interference
- Outer Sheath: Black PVC or LSZH, UV and weather resistant
Applications
- Large-capacity industrial power distribution systems, such as substations and transformer connections.
- Robust mechanical protection for underground facilities at risk of mechanical stress.
- Renewable energy projects (solar farms, wind farms)
- Ideal for single-core circuits where steel armor cannot be used due to eddy currents
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
| Rated Voltage | 0.6/1kV |
| Maximum Operating Temperature | 90°C |
| Short Circuit Temperature | 250°C (5 seconds) |
| Minimum Bending Radius | ≥ 15 × cable outer diameter |
| Flame Retardant | IEC 60332-1 compliant |
| Applicable Standards | IEC 60502-1 / BS5467 |
Typical Specification for 185mm² AWA Cable
| Item | Conductor Area | Conductor Stranding | Outer Diameter (approx.) | Cable Weight (approx.) | Current Rating (in air) | Current Rating (in ground) | Standard Drum Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Value | 185 mm² | Class 2 (Stranded) | 33 – 38 mm | 2,300 – 2,600 kg/km | ~415 A | ~355 A | 500m or customized |
MV Armoured AWA Cable
Medium voltage AWA armored cables are single core aluminum wire armored cables designed for safe and reliable power transmission in industrial and utility applications. They feature XLPE insulation, semi-conductive shield, and rugged PVC or LSZH jacket, providing excellent electrical performance, mechanical protection, and resistance to environmental stresses.
Cable Structure
- Conductor: Stranded plain annealed copper (Class 2 or Class 1, per IEC 60228)
- Conductor Screen: Semi-conductive layer
- Insulation: XLPE (Cross-linked Polyethylene), rated for MV
- Insulation Screen: Semi-conductive layer + metallic screen (copper tape or wire)
- Separator/Inner Sheath: PVC or semi-conductive bedding
- Armour: Aluminum Wire Armour (AWA) – for single-core cables
- Outer Sheath: Black PVC or LSZH, UV and chemical resistant
Applications
- Underground distribution networks, substations, factories, refineries, mines and chemical facilities
- Renewable energy transmission systems (solar, wind farms)
- Environments requiring mechanical protection of single-core conductors and EMC compatibility requirements
Key Features
- Suitable for medium voltage applications (up to 33kV) and provide mechanical strength.
- Cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) insulation provides excellent thermal and electrical stability.
- Available with PVC or LSZH outer sheath to IEC 60502-2 or BS6622 medium voltage standards.
- Flame retardant, UV resistant and will not form electromagnetic loops.
Product Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
| Voltage Rating (Uo/U) | 3.6/6 kV, 6/10 kV, 8.7/15 kV, 12/20 kV, 18/30 kV, 19/33 kV |
| Maximum Operating Temp. | 90°C |
| Short Circuit Temp. | 250°C (5 seconds) |
| Flame Retardant Standard | IEC 60332-1 |
| Minimum Bending Radius | ≥ 15 × cable outer diameter |
| Test Voltage | 6.5 kV to 65 kV depending on cable rating |
| Standards | IEC 60502-2 / BS6622 |
Typical Specification – 185mm² 12/20kV MV AWA Cable
| Item | Conductor Area | Voltage Class | Insulation Thickness | Outer Diameter (approx.) | Weight (approx.) | Current Rating (air) | Current Rating (ground) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Value | 185 mm² | 12/20 kV | 5.5 mm | ~54–60 mm | ~3,200 kg/km | ~470 A | ~410 A |
630mm 0.6/1KV AWA Cable
630mm² AWA armored cable, heavy duty single core low voltage, designed for high current distribution in industrial and utility power systems. With large cross-section copper conductor, XLPE insulation and aluminum wire armor, it provides excellent mechanical protection and anti-magnetic interference performance.
Cable Structure
- Conductor: Plain annealed copper, 630mm², Class 2 stranded
- Insulation: XLPE (Cross-linked Polyethylene)
- Inner Bedding (optional): PVC or LSZH
- Armour: Aluminum Wire Armour (AWA) – prevents eddy current in single-core circuits
- Outer Sheath: Black PVC or LSZH, UV-resistant, flame retardant
Applications
- Large industrial power distribution, from substations to main switchboards, underground or fixed facilities requiring high current capacity
- Ideal for single core systems where steel armoring can cause electromagnetic interference
- Power systems in renewable energy, data centers, mining and utility grids
Key Features
- Large copper conductor (630mm²) for high current load and single core applications
- Available with PVC or LSZH sheath, excellent resistance to mechanical stress and chemical corrosion, suitable for different environments
- Flame retardant, UV resistant, moisture resistant, compliant with IEC 60502-1 and BS5467 standards
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
| Current Rating (in air) | ~720 A |
| Current Rating (in ground) | ~625 A |
| Maximum Operating Temp. | 90°C |
| Short Circuit Temp. | 250°C (5 seconds) |
| Flame Retardancy | IEC 60332-1 |
| Minimum Bending Radius | ≥ 15 × cable outer diameter (≈ 825–930 mm) |
| Standards | IEC 60502-1 / BS5467 |
Typical Specification – 630mm² 0.6/1kV AWA Armoured Cable
| Item | Conductor Area | Voltage Class | Insulation Thickness | Outer Diameter (approx.) | Cable Weight (approx.) | Current Rating (air) | Current Rating (ground) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Value | 630 mm² | 0.6/1 kV | 2.5 mm | 55 – 62 mm | 4,500 – 5,000 kg/km | ~720 A | ~625 A |
BS 5467 standard cable, low voltage armoured power cable under British standard. Available in single-core and multi-core constructions, single-core construction utilizes AWA aluminum wire armor. With XLPE insulation and steel or aluminium wire armour (SWA/AWA), it provides excellent mechanical protection and electrical performance. Designed for fixed installation, commonly used in industrial, commercial, and infrastructure applications, voltage up to 600/1000V.
Different Size Specifiction
| Size (mm²) | Outer Diameter (mm) | Weight (kg/km) | Current Rating in Air (A) | Current Rating Buried (A) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70 | ~25 | ~1,100 | 260 | 230 |
| 120 | ~30 | ~1,650 | 345 | 305 |
| 185 | ~36 | ~2,450 | 445 | 395 |
| 300 | ~44 | ~3,600 | 570 | 505 |
| 400 | ~48 | ~4,500 | 655 | 585 |
| 500 | ~52 | ~5,450 | 725 | 650 |
| 630 | ~58 | ~6,800 | 820 | 730 |
About STA Armored Cable & Single Core AWA Armored Cable
Why must we emphasize in the title that it is a SINGLE CORE aluminum wire armored cable?
This is because the uniqueness of aluminum wire armored cable leads to its general use in the production of single-core armored cables in the application of a number of cable cores.
So what is the uniqueness of aluminum wire when used as a cable armor structure?
The Biggest Difference Between AWA Armor & SWA Armor
Electromagnetic Properties: AWA is non-magnetic; SWA is magnetic material
In a single-core AC cable, the current will generate a rotating magnetic field around the conductor. If a magnetic material (such as steel) is used as armor, a closed magnetic circuit will be formed, inducing eddy currents, causing heating, reduced efficiency, and even damage to the cable.
Aluminum is a non-magnetic metal that does not form a closed magnetic circuit and therefore does not generate eddy currents. This is why single-core cables can only use AWA, not SWA.
Therefore, AWA is non-magnetic and is only used for single-core AC cables to prevent electromagnetic eddy currents; SWA is magnetic and is suitable for multi-core or DC cables and has higher mechanical strength.
Why Choose Our AWA Armored Cable?
🔹 Non-Magnetic Armor – The First Choice For Single-Core Cables
Aluminium Wire Armour – AWA is non-magnetic, avoiding eddy current heating that may be generated by steel armor, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
🔹 Lighter Weight – Easier Installation
AWA is lighter than steel wire armor. It simplifies handling, transportation, and installation, especially for long-distance cable routing or complex wiring.
🔹 Corrosion-Resistant Performance
Aluminum wire armor has natural corrosion resistance and can extend service life in humid, coastal, or chemically corrosive environments without additional protection.
🔹 Compliance With Global Standards
Our AWA cables comply with BS 5467, IEC 60502-1 and other international standards, ensuring safety, reliability, and performance for industrial and infrastructure projects.
🔹 Reliable Fixed Power Distribution
Ideal for 0.6/1kV and medium voltage (MV) applications in substations, utilities, commercial buildings, and heavy industrial systems.
Our Certification Advantages
Since its establishment over 30 years ago, ZMS Cable has been researching major cable standards worldwide every year. We actively provide product certification standards so that customers can buy the safest and most reliable cable products. Our cable products have been verified by authoritative organizations, whether from American standards or British standards. In recent years, we have also been deeply involved in other standard fields, such as Portuguese standards and Turkish standards. Look for ZMS cables.
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