Abstract: A conductor for overhead transmission of electrical energy. The conductor comprises an inner core and an outer conductor layer comprised of a plurality of strands helically wound on and lengthwise of the core. The strands are of trapezoidal shape in cross-section and have outwardly facing surface provided with deformations spaced apart along the length of the strands. The deformations are effective to reduce the drag of the air moving against and across the conductor.

Abstract: An assembly for making a mechanical or electrical connection between a conductor and the like and another element. The assembly comprises a tubular housing having a tapered portion converging toward an open end of the housing, the housing containing a unitary, tubular, conductor gripping member. The conductor gripping member has an outer tapered surface converging toward one of its ends and toward the open end of the housing. At least one coil spring made of relatively large gauge spring material is held in compression within the housing and in a manner that will drive the conductor gripping member toward the open end of the housing with substantial force when the compression of the spring is released. The tapered end of the housing is then effective to collapse the gripping member on a conductor or cable inserted in the housing and into the member.