Power transmission using heat-resistant aluminum alloy conductors often involves the transfer of "natural power" (or surge-impedance-loading power). Significant overloads along the line can lead to substantial voltage drops and additional energy losses; the longer the line, the greater these voltage drops, energy losses, and reactive power deficits become-all of which undermine system stability. Consequently, this technology is generally unsuitable for long-distance transmission lines. While reactive power compensation and automatic excitation regulation can enhance system stability, they also increase capital expenditure. Furthermore, even excluding the costs associated with such compensation, when the transmission distance exceeds 500 km, the power-carrying capacity of these lines-even with maximum series compensation-fails to increase proportionally with additional investment, resulting in a conductor utilization rate far lower than that of conventional lines.
Given these characteristics, this transmission technology is best suited for short-distance lines in areas with high population density, substantial electricity demand, and concentrated power flows. It is highly effective for high-capacity, short-to-medium-distance transmission-such as lines originating from substations or power plants, as well as inter-regional grid interconnections.
Moreover, heat-resistant aluminum alloy conductor technology is well-suited for use in ultra-high-voltage (UHV) direct current (DC) transmission. It offers distinct advantages for short-distance, high-capacity transmission and for the capacity expansion of existing lines. For instance, it can be effectively employed for high-current transmission-such as connections at substations or power plants-and for upgrading older lines to increase their capacity, thereby reducing project investment and delivering significant benefits. As my country continues to advance its reactive power compensation equipment and grid stability technologies, the scope of application and the inherent advantages of these transmission technologies are expected to expand further.
