Utility Profile
The Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) is the primary electricity utility provider in Saudi Arabia and the largest in the Middle East. SEC operates an extensive transmission network exceeding 79,000 kilometers and manages a generation capacity of over 75,000 MW. The Western Region of Saudi Arabia, including cities like Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina, is a critical economic zone requiring continuous grid modernization to meet rapid urbanization and industrial growth.
Product link: https://cable-uni.com/products/bare-conductor/acss-aluminum-conductor-steel-supported.html
Conductor Application Successes
To reinforce the Western Region grid, SEC initiated a major transmission upgrade project focusing on the 380kV and 230kV corridors. The objective was to increase transmission capacity without costly new tower construction, improve thermal performance under high ambient temperatures, and maintain system reliability in harsh desert and coastal environments.
Uni-Cable’s ACSS/TW conductors were selected due to their outstanding high-temperature operation, mechanical strength, and sag control. Key specifications of the conductors supplied include:
Type: ACSS/TW (Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported with trapezoidal wires)
Conductor Size: 570 mm² aluminum alloy with 30% steel core
Rated Temperature: Continuous operation at 210°C, emergency operation up to 240°C
Tensile Strength: Minimum 55 kN
Standards Compliance: IEC 61089, ASTM B857
Project Highlights:
Jeddah–Makkah 380kV Transmission Line: 150 circuit kilometers of ACSS/TW 570 mm² conductor installed on existing lattice towers originally designed for lower capacity lines.
Madinah 230kV Upgrade: 72 circuit kilometers with compact ACSS conductors, optimizing line performance in congested right-of-ways.
Performance Benefits:
Increased ampacity by over 50%, enabling higher power flow without new tower construction
Reduced thermal sag, maintaining safe clearance in high ambient temperatures exceeding 45°C
Excellent corrosion resistance against coastal salt spray and desert dust
Longer service life with minimal maintenance needs
Related Accessories Supplied:
In addition to conductors, Uni-Cable provided a full range of matching overhead line accessories certified to IEC and SEC standards:
Suspension clamps (Model SEC-XG-570) designed for ACSS 570 mm²
Tension clamps (Model SEC-NG-570) with high-strength galvanized steel
Spacer dampers (Model SD-570) to reduce conductor vibration and galloping
Polymer composite insulators rated for 400kV
Armor rods and vibration dampers compatible with ACSS conductors
Corona rings for enhanced electrical field control
Quality Assurance and Testing:
All conductors underwent full mechanical and electrical testing including tensile strength, sag and elongation, and corrosion resistance testing per IEC 61089 and ASTM B857.
Accessories were subjected to mechanical load tests, electrical withstand tests, and weathering simulations.
The production facility is ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certified, ensuring consistent product quality and environmental compliance.
Each shipment included batch-specific test reports and certificates for traceability.
Export Packaging and Logistics:
Conductors were wound on heavy-duty steel drums with anti-corrosion wraps suitable for long-distance sea and land transport.
Accessories were packaged in customized crates with cushioning to prevent damage.
Uni-Cable’s experienced export team coordinated shipments to SEC project sites, ensuring on-time delivery aligned with construction schedules.
Why SEC Chose Uni-Cable:
SEC’s decision to partner with Uni-Cable was based on:
Proven track record of delivering high-performance ACSS conductors in harsh Middle Eastern environments
Competitive factory-direct pricing without compromising quality
Fast production and reliable delivery timelines critical for project milestones
Comprehensive supply including conductors and accessories from a single trusted source
Strong technical support including conductor installation guidance and post-delivery service
The Saudi Electricity Company’s Western Region transmission upgrade project successfully leveraged Uni-Cable’s ACSS conductors and accessories to significantly increase grid capacity while controlling costs and maintaining high reliability. This partnership highlights Uni-Cable’s ability to meet demanding technical requirements and deliver turnkey solutions for major utilities in the Middle East.
