In the huge system of power transmission and distribution, transformers and cables are like "blood vessels" and "hearts", carrying the efficient transmission and conversion of current. Aluminum foil, a seemingly ordinary metal material, has become an indispensable key role in the manufacture of transformers and cables due to its unique properties.
Core characteristics of aluminum foil
Excellent electrical performance
Aluminum foil has good conductivity. Although its conductivity is slightly lower than that of copper, it has great advantages in terms of cost and performance. In transformers and cables, it can effectively conduct current and reduce power loss. At the same time, aluminum foil for cable also has excellent shielding properties, which can block electromagnetic interference, ensure the stable transmission of power signals, avoid interference of external electromagnetic environment on cables and transformer internal signals, and ensure the reliable operation of power systems.
Good flexibility and processing performance
Aluminum foil is soft and has excellent flexibility. It can be easily wound, folded and shaped. In the manufacturing process of transformers, it can tightly wrap the core and winding to achieve precise insulation and shielding; in cable production, it can be flexibly coated according to different cable structures and size requirements, perfectly fitting the shape of the cable, and providing reliable protection and performance guarantee for the cable.
Corrosion and oxidation resistance
A dense aluminum oxide film will naturally form on the surface of aluminum foil. This film is like a solid "armor" that can effectively resist the erosion of moisture, acid, alkali and other corrosive substances in the external environment, extend the service life of transformers and cables, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the long-term stable operation of the power system.
Lightweight and cost-effective
Compared with other metal materials, aluminum has a lower density and the aluminum foil is lightweight. For cables and transformers that require a lot of materials, this not only reduces the overall weight of the equipment, facilitates transportation and installation, but also reduces costs. At the same time, the abundant aluminum resources and mature refining and processing technologies have further enhanced the economic advantages of aluminum foil in the power field.
Commonly used aluminum foil alloy grades
1060 aluminum foil
1060 aluminum foil for transformer has an aluminum content of up to 99.6% and is extremely pure. It has excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, a relatively low price, excellent processing performance, and is easy to form and coat. In cables, it is often used to make ordinary cable shields that do not require particularly strict shielding performance; in transformers, it can be used for winding insulation and simple shielding of some small or cost-sensitive transformers.
3003 aluminum foil
3003 aluminum alloy foil mainly adds manganese elements. Compared with pure aluminum foil, its strength and hardness are improved, while maintaining good corrosion resistance and processing performance. It is widely used in transformers and cables, and can be used to make shielding layers, insulation layers, etc. that have certain requirements for mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. For example, in some cables and large transformers used outdoors, 3003 aluminum alloy foil can better adapt to complex environmental conditions and provide reliable protection.
8011 aluminum foil
8011 aluminum alloy foil is a commonly used aluminum foil alloy that combines good strength, flexibility and corrosion resistance. In cable manufacturing, it is often used to make the outer shielding layer of the cable, which can effectively shield electromagnetic interference and resist erosion from the external environment; in transformers, it can be used for insulation and shielding of windings to ensure the stable operation of the transformer.