Company Overview and History
Conex Cable, LLC, originally known as Conex, initiated the production of Aluminum-clad Steel (AS) wire in 1988, leveraging the continuous extrusion process developed in 1956. The company's early operations were based in the San Francisco Bay area. During the 1990s, Conex operated as a joint venture or subsidiary of Hitachi LTD, continuing to utilize Hitachi Cable's technology in AS wire manufacturing. In 2004, the company transitioned to 100% U.S. private ownership, relocating its headquarters and manufacturing facilities to DeKalb, Illinois. A significant $3.5 million expansion in 2015 enabled the addition of a continuous process for producing Galvanized Steel wire, including both Class A and its proprietary CONZINAL brand.
Products and Offerings
Conex Cable, LLC is distinguished as the sole domestic manufacturer of both Aluminum-clad Steel (AS) wire and Galvanized Steel wire, encompassing Class A and CONZINAL varieties. All products undergo 100% in-house cladding or galvanizing, drawing, and stranding processes. AS wire is manufactured by continuously extruding high-purity aluminum onto high-strength steel, resulting in superior corrosion resistance, high electrical conductivity (20.3% standard), and excellent thermal stability. It features a thick aluminum cladding, typically 25% of the cross-sectional area, and is used in diverse applications such as conductors, ground wires, guy wires, and messenger wires.
The Galvanized Steel wire product line includes Class A Galvanized Steel and CONZINAL® Coated Steel Strands. Class A Galvanized Steel is zinc-coated and used for applications like guy and messenger wires, and overhead ground/shield wires. CONZINAL, an alloy of 95% zinc and 5% aluminum plus mischmetal, offers enhanced corrosion resistance, a smoother finish, and reliable performance, particularly in corrosive environments. Both galvanized product types are available in 3-wire, 7-wire, and 19-wire constructions, with various sizes and strengths, supplied in coils or reels.
Commitment to Quality and Domestic Production
Conex Cable, LLC proudly manufactures its products in DeKalb, Illinois, meeting and exceeding the 'Build America, Buy America' (BABA) guidelines set by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The company utilizes USA-made and melted steel strand wire, reinforcing its dedication to American craftsmanship and reliability. This commitment positions Conex Cable as a key supplier for critical infrastructure projects, providing essential components for the electrical grid and other applications requiring durable, high-performance wire products.
