Technology

Do CCS Conductors Really Endure Stress Longer than Copper?

Published

2 years ago

June 5, 2024

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., June 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — For decades, Copperweld Copper-Clad Steel (CCS) conductors have been widely regarded as the paragon of strength and resiliency in the power grid and utility markets. CCS is used in some of the most unforgiving environments and applications — frost-heaving soils in substation ground grids, gale-force winds in pole-top transformer connections, and the unearthly cold and relentless radiation of space.

Copperweld CCS conductors displayed up to 5 times greater flex endurance than the equivalent copper samples.

CCS is trusted because it has proven its reliability and performance for nearly 100 years.

The Challenge
To back up CCS’s century-long reputation for superior strength, Copperweld’s engineering team received several requests from customers to perform lab tests that measure the flex-fatigue endurance of Copperweld CCS products compared to equivalent-ampacity copper conductors. So, they stepped up to the challenge.

Flex Fatigue Testing
In conductor manufacturing, breakload tests are popular for assessing conductor strength. Copperweld performs dozens of breakload batch tests every day to ensure that every foot of our CCS conductors is performing to specification. But while breakload tests are excellent for measuring tensile strength, they only measure mechanical strength across a single, linear event. Real-world abuse involves a wide range of motion and a high level of repetition.

Whether simulating the high-pressure contraction and expansion in buried applications or the repetitive stresses in overhead applications, an accurate way to measure real-world endurance is a flex fatigue test. Flex fatigue testing measures the number of stress cycles (180-degree bends) endured before conductor breakage is observed. A conductor’s breaking point is typically measured when continuity is interrupted. Unfortunately, stranded conductors expose an inherent limitation when simply testing for continuity.

Finding the True Breaking Point
Because a stranded conductor can maintain continuity after one or more strands have broken, a traditional flex-fatigue test that measures continuity disruption is more suited for single-end conductors. This method of testing endurance provides an unfair advantage to stranded conductors like our stranded CCS products. So, we devised a test method to more accurately and fairly measure the comparative flex-fatigue performance of both stranded and solid conductors.

This new test setup utilizes the sound spike created when a single strand of a stranded conductor breaks to identify the cycle at which the conductor is compromised, despite maintaining some conductivity. With this setup, a sound meter and monitoring software are used to cross reference elapsed test time of the sound spike (breaking point) with the number of bend cycles in the flex fatigue test. This provides a reliable method of testing the flex endurance for both conductor construction types.

‍Our Test
To test the flex endurance of products that traditionally receive significant abuse in the field, we focused the study on our most popular transformer riser cables (Stingray 135 and Stingray 195) and their copper equivalents (6 AWG and 4 AWG). Pole-top transformer riser cables are subjected to a high level of shear force trauma in the form of flexing, bending, jerking, and vibration — making them ideal test subjects for this study.

In each test, five samples of each conductor — CCS and copper — were cut into two-foot sections with 1 inch of insulation removed from both ends to connect to the Flex Fatigue Tester. A Reed R8080 Sound Level Meter was then connected to monitoring software to capture single-end strand breakage. To mimic the extreme stressors that many conductors encounter in the field, we performed a standard 180-degree test consisting of a 90-degree bend to the left and a 90-degree bend to the right constituting a full cycle.

Stingray 135 vs 6 AWG Solid Copper Results
When comparing Copperweld CCS samples (Stingray 135) to solid-copper samples (6 AWG), CCS displayed greater flex endurance than copper. The average full-cycle count for the Stingray 135 samples was 224.8 cycles while the average full-cycle count for the 6 AWG copper samples was 36.2 cycles. This indicates that the CCS sample (Stingray 135) has 5.2 times more flex endurance than copper (6 AWG).

Stingray 195 vs 4 AWG Solid Copper Results
When comparing Copperweld CCS samples (Stingray 195) to solid-copper samples (4 AWG), CCS displayed greater flex endurance than copper. The average full-cycle count for the Stingray 135 samples was 87.6 cycles while the average full-cycle count for the 6 AWG copper samples was 30.6 cycles. This indicates that the CCS sample (Stingray 195) has 1.9 times more flex endurance than copper (4 AWG).

‍Conclusion
Using flex fatigue testing and sonic breakage detection, Copperweld CCS conductors displayed up to 5 times greater flex endurance than the equivalent copper samples.

Whether it’s for overhead tap wire or below-grade grounding for a substation, CCS can be the perfect solution for upgrading system design strength and meeting your electrical performance needs. Contact Copperweld to discuss the right CCS products for your application or to locate a Copperweld manufacturer’s rep in your area.

See the full article here.

Copperweld is the world leader in bimetallic wire and cable specializing in power, grounding, and signal conductors for building construction, power grid, utilities, communications, and transportation. For over 100 years, their mission has been to make the most reliable, sustainable, and innovative wire and cable products on the market. Copperweld’s metallurgical expertise and engineered solutions result in bimetallic products that enhance performance, extend service life, conserve copper, improve energy efficiency, and reduce incentives for theft. Their American-made products are manufactured in the heart of the USA, and the culture of excellence and innovation that inspired them over a century ago still drives them today.

CONTACT: Kris Atwood, katwood@copperweld.com

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SOURCE Copperweld

Technology

Citi Singapore receives dual award recognition from FinanceAsia and Forbes

Published

58 minutes ago

April 27, 2026

Citi named Best International Bank and Best International Investment Bank in Singapore by FinanceAsia for the second year in a rowCiti ranked as #1 in Singapore among Forbes World’s Best Banks 2026

SINGAPORE, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Citi Singapore today announced that it was conferred awards by both FinanceAsia and Forbes, underscoring its leading position in the financial industry.

The bank won multiple accolades from FinanceAsia, including ‘Best International Bank’ and ‘Best International Investment Bank’ in Singapore for the second year running. It was also ranked first in Singapore amongst Forbes World’s Best Banks 2026.

FinanceAsia Awards 2026

FinanceAsia, a leading Hong Kong-based financial publication reporting on Asia Pacific’s financial and capital markets, recognized Citi’s strong financial performance, as well as its commitment to client service and innovation across various segments of its institutional and wealth management businesses in Singapore.

Besides the ‘Best International Bank’ and ‘Best International Investment Bank’ awards, Citi also won ‘Best International ECM House’ and ‘Best International M&A House’ in Singapore.

“We are incredibly honored to receive these significant recognitions from FinanceAsia and Forbes,” said Lee Lung Nien, Citi Country Officer for Singapore. “These awards are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our teams, who consistently strive to deliver exceptional value and service to our clients. Singapore remains a critical hub for Citi, and these accolades reinforce our strategy and commitment to driving growth and innovation in this market.”

Forbes World’s Best Banks 2026

Citi’s #1 ranking in Singapore in the prestigious Forbes World’s Best Banks 2026 list is based on a comprehensive survey conducted by Forbes and Statista. Over 50,000 consumers from 34 countries were engaged for this survey in 17 different languages.

Survey participants evaluated banks where they currently have a checking or savings account (within the last three years), or that they knew through family or friends. They shared how satisfied they were with each bank and whether they would recommend it to others, then rated each on trustworthiness, terms and conditions, digital services, customer service and financial advice.

Yeo Wenxian, Head of Wealth for Asia South, said “We are honored to be recognized by FinanceAsia and Forbes. The accolades are a powerful affirmation of the trust our clients place in us and the unwavering commitment of our teams. The awards fuel our determination to keep raising the bar, serving with excellence, and delivering wealth management experiences centered on our clients’ needs.”

These awards reflect Citi Singapore’s robust performance, strategic initiatives, and client-centric approach, solidifying its reputation as a pre-eminent financial partner in the region.

About Citi
Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | X: @Citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi

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SOURCE Citi

Technology

“Pretty Messy” Completes Jūji’s Debut Album Journey — A Luminous Title Track About Embracing Pain and Moving Forward

Published

58 minutes ago

April 27, 2026

BANGKOK, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Thai indie pop–jazz outfit Jūji gracefully wraps up its debut full-length album with “Pretty Messy,” a beautifully crafted title track that invites listeners to embrace past wounds before stepping into the future.

Based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and currently signed to Melodic Corner, Jūji has steadily captured audiences with its signature blend of indie pop and jazz, weaving deeply personal narratives in both English and Japanese. Its growing international presence includes performances at Bangkok Music City 2026 in Thailand, Music Lane Festival Okinawa 2026 in Japan, and Minrock Festa 2025 in Busan, South Korea.

Following these international appearances, Jūji reaches a defining milestone with the release of its debut full-length project, The 1st Album, culminating in “Pretty Messy” — a reflective and healing composition that encourages listeners to find beauty and meaning within life’s imperfections.

Finding Beauty in Imperfection

“Pretty Messy” explores the process of accepting and embracing sadness. Inspired by real-life experiences, the track reflects on memories, emotional baggage, and the inevitable act of letting go. At its core, it offers a message of quiet optimism: that pain, in hindsight, can reveal its own kind of beauty — especially once we find the strength to move forward.

A Journey Through Love, Longing, and Self-Discovery

As part of The 1st Album, “Pretty Messy” completes a narrative arc centered on love in its many forms — spanning self-discovery, heartbreak, infatuation, and even the longing for something that may never exist.

Over the past year, listeners have followed this journey through standout tracks including “Moon Or Stars,” “You,” “More & More,” “Never This Far Away Gone (All In),” “No Turning Back,” “Forbidden Love,” and “Dreamland,” all leading to the album’s poignant conclusion.

The Sound of Jūji

The 1st Album showcases Jūji’s distinctive indie pop–jazz sensibility, enriched by each member’s unique musical influences. The result is a cohesive body of work that feels both dreamy and sincere — capturing the emotional complexity and quiet vulnerability of the human experience.

Watch & Listen

Experience the beauty of imperfection in Jūji’s “Pretty Messy,” now available as an official music video on YouTube via Melodic Corner. The 1st Album is also available on all major streaming platforms.

Stay connected with Jūji for upcoming projects and uniquely curated content across all official channels.

Follow Jūji
YouTube : https://youtube.com/@jujiband.official?si=Oqz9qvv59XMdlTCY
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/jujiband.official/?hl=en
Tiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@jujiband.official?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

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SOURCE Melodic Corner

Technology

Protiviti Congratulates Brand Ambassador Matt Fitzpatrick as Fitzpatrick Brothers Win Zurich Classic of New Orleans

Published

2 hours ago

April 27, 2026

Alex Fitzpatrick Earns PGA TOUR Card

MENLO PARK, Calif., April 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Protiviti Golf Brand Ambassador and professional golfer Matt Fitzpatrick continued his strong 2026 season with a victory at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans alongside his brother, Alex Fitzpatrick. The Fitzpatrick brothers delivered a composed and cohesive performance throughout the team-format event, completing rounds of 64-65-57-71 (-31). The win secured Alex Fitzpatrick his first PGA TOUR card, marking a significant milestone in his professional career.

This marks Matt Fitzpatrick’s third win of the season, most on the PGA Tour, the 14th professional win of his career, and fifth on the PGA Tour. Fitzpatrick is currently No.1 on the FedEx Cup ranking and No. 3 in the Official World Golf Ranking, the highest ranking of his career.

To commemorate Fitzpatrick’s win, Protiviti donated 25,000 meals through its “Birdies for Meals” campaign. Since its launch in 2021, the Birdies for Meals program has already donated more than 825,000 meals to people in need.

“Congratulations to Matt Fitzpatrick and Alex Fitzpatrick on an outstanding victory—an inspiring showcase of chemistry and consistency. We also applaud Alex on earning his PGA TOUR card, a significant step in his career,” said Joseph Tarantino, Protiviti’s president and CEO. “In celebration of this win, Protiviti will donate 25,000 meals through our Birdies for Meals campaign, extending the impact well beyond the course.”

As Matt Fitzpatrick’s Official Performance Data Partner, Protiviti collaborates closely with Matt and his coaching team to enhance performance through advanced analytics and technology. By leveraging Microsoft technologies, Protiviti has developed a custom analytics platform, tailored dashboards, and a mobile application that streamline data collection and deliver real-time, shot-level insights. These tools enable more informed, data-driven decision-making across practice and competition, helping identify trends, refine preparation, and improve consistency. Learn more at www.protiviti.com/golf-data.

“It has been an incredible opportunity to work with Matt and see Protiviti’s work play a role in his on-course success. Just as we do with many clients, our team has built a bespoke program leveraging emerging technologies, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to provide Matt, his caddie, and coaches with analysis and insights that aid in his preparation and guide strategy for each event he plays,” said Nick Ciafardini, associate director, Innovation for Protiviti.

“This win is surreal for me, especially doing it alongside my brother. I’m incredibly proud of Alex earning his PGA TOUR card—it’s a huge milestone for him and one we’ll always share. I’m also so grateful for the unwavering support from my family, my team, and my partners at Protiviti, whose data-driven approach to performance has become a key part of my preparation and constant pursuit of improvement,” said Matt Fitzpatrick.

After taking control with a historic 15-under in the fourball third round, the Fitzpatrick brothers briefly dropped the lead in the final round. With the tournament on the line at the 18th, they delivered a clutch closing sequence to seal the victory. Matt’s precision tee-to-green and Alex’s timely putting proved decisive, highlighting their chemistry under pressure.

Other notable Fitzpatrick wins include the 2015 British Masters, 2016 Nordea Masters, the 2016, 2020, and 2025 DP World Tour Championships. On the PGA Tour, Fitzpatrick also won the 2022 U.S. Open, RBC Heritage (2023 & 2026) and the 2026 Valspar Championship. He has been a Protiviti brand ambassador since 2020.

For more information about Protiviti’s golf brand ambassador program, please visit www.protiviti.com/golf.

About Protiviti 
Protiviti (www.protiviti.com) is a global consulting firm that helps clients transform and protect their businesses, and respond to planned and unexpected events. Through a network of more than 90 offices in over 25 countries, Protiviti and its independent and locally owned member firms deliver deep expertise and tailored capabilities across technology, artificial intelligence, data, operations, finance, legal, compliance, HR, marketing, digital, risk, and internal audit – enabling organizations to accelerate innovation, navigate risks and safeguard what matters most.

Named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list since 2015, Protiviti Inc. has served more than 80 percent of Fortune 100 and nearly 80 percent of Fortune 500 companies. The firm also works with government agencies and smaller, growing companies, including those looking to go public. Protiviti Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Robert Half (NYSE: RHI).

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SOURCE Protiviti