Advances in Copper Conductor Manufacturing Technologies in the Cable Industry

Copper conductors remain the core element in determining cable performance, as electrical transmission efficiency depends heavily on the conductivity, purity, and mechanical stability of copper under operational stress. Over the past decade, conductor production has undergone major advancements, especially with the introduction of multi-stage drawing technologies that minimize mechanical strain and preserve the conductor’s true cross-section.

Additionally, computer-controlled annealing processes have significantly improved crystal structure alignment, resulting in increased flexibility and reduced electrical resistance. International standards such as IEC 60228 and IEEE 80 classify conductors by category (Class 1–5), ensuring uniformity and performance.

Industrial research indicates that enhancing surface smoothness by as little as 10% can improve conductor efficiency and reduce thermal losses—particularly in small-section building wires. These advancements