The resistance of a conductor is determined by four main factors, which are critical for designing and selecting the right equipment for overhead and underground power line projects:

• Material: The inherent property of a material, known as its resistivity, determines how much it will resist current. Materials like silver, copper, and aluminum have low resistivity and are excellent conductors. For example, our ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) cables use aluminum for its conductivity and low weight, while the steel core provides mechanical strength.

• Length: Resistance is directly proportional to the length of the conductor. A longer wire provides more opportunities for electrons to collide with atoms, thus increasing resistance. This is why longer transmission lines experience more energy loss.

• Cross-Sectional Area: Resistance is inversely proportional to the conductor's cross-sectional area. A thicker conductor provides more space for electrons to flow, reducing the number of collisions and, therefore, the resistance. This is a key reason why large, thick conductors are used for high-capacity power lines.

• Temperature: For most conductor materials, resistance increases as temperature rises. When a conductor gets hotter, its atoms vibrate more intensely, increasing the likelihood of collisions with flowing electrons.