Alcan Cable offers Ultra HS(TM) high strength steel core transmission cable
as high temperature, low sag solution in power transmission applications

ATLANTA, GA, June 3 /CNW Telbec/ - Alcan Cable, part of Alcan Engineered Products - a business unit of Rio Tinto - introduces its Ultra HS(TM) steel core wire for use at maximum benefit with Aluminum Conductor Steel Supported (ACSS, ACSS/TW) and Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced Self Damping Conductor (ACSR/SD) products for power transmission line applications.

"We are pleased to introduce this new stronger steel core product, Ultra HS(TM), which offers lower sag on transmission lines and thus saves on tower height," said Howard H. Atkins, Vice-President, Business Development and Marketing, Alcan Cable. "There are cases where standard steel core wire in ACSS will not provide the necessary sag profile. Our new Ultra HS(TM) steel core wire gives our customers another option."

Conductors with Ultra HS(TM) core wires provide the lowest sag possible on steel core transmission lines operating at temperatures up to 250 degrees C. For Self Damping Conductors, the higher strength steel core increases their rated breaking strength and offers lower sag while still providing its usual vibration protection, up to operating temperatures of 100 degrees C. With standard ACSR, Ultra HS(TM) steel core wires will provide a stronger conductor that can be installed within the usual tension limits used to prevent vibration damage.

Alcan Cable's ULTRA HS(TM) steel core wires are manufactured in accordance with ASTM B 958 standards and are available for a wide range of transmission cables.

Alcan Cable has provided its customers with quality products and outstanding customer service for over 100 years. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Alcan Cable is a leading manufacturer of aluminum cable, rod and strip products, and modular wiring systems and has seven manufacturing operations - six in North America and one in China.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK, combining Rio Tinto plc, a London and NYSE listed company, and Rio Tinto Limited, which is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining, and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminium, copper, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc) and iron ore. Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with significant businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and southern Africa.

For further information: Alcan Cable, Atlanta: Rhonda Buckley, [phone], [email protected]; Rio Tinto Alcan, Montreal: Stefano Bertolli, [phone], [email protected]; www.cable.alcan.com; www.riotinto.com