6-6 Duplex Aluminum Overhead Service Drop Cable (Shepherd)

Parent SKU :  SHP-2SDP

SKU :  SHP-2SDP-250

600 VOLT SUNLIGHT RESISTANT XLPE JACKET WITH BARE NEUTRAL MESSENGER.
Wire Size 6 AWG
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Outer Diameter 0.48 in.
Conductor Count 1
Voltage Rating 600
Ampacity Rating 85

Get Product Details

Get Product Details

"The industry standard for 120V overhead utility drops, outdoor lighting, and temporary jobsite power. Engineered for dependable 600V aerial power delivery, this 2-conductor duplex cable features weather-resistant XLP insulation and a heavy-duty steel-reinforced ACSR neutral messenger built to withstand environmental strain."

Key Features & Benefits: 6-6 Duplex Overhead Service Drop Cable

The 6-6 Shepherd Duplex Cable is the go-to choice for overhead single-phase 120V secondary distribution. Built to bridge the gap between utility poles and weatherheads, it provides a stable, sag-resistant solution for overhead power drops, construction site temp power, and street lighting installations.

By utilizing 1350-H19 series aluminum conductors paired with a high-tensile ACSR neutral messenger, Shepherd duplex provides maximum physical strength with lightweight ease of installation. The cross-linked polyethylene (XLP) insulation offers extreme protection against sunlight, freezing temperatures, and environmental wear.

  • 600V Aerial Reliability: Rated for continuous 120V aerial service (up to 600V max) at conductor temperatures up to 90°C with XLP insulation.

  • High-Tensile ACSR Messenger: Features a 6/1 steel-reinforced ACSR neutral messenger delivering 1,190 lbs of breaking strength to prevent sag and withstand ice/wind loads.

  • Sunlight & Weather-Resistant XLP: Heavy-duty black cross-linked polyethylene insulation prevents UV degradation, cracking, and moisture damage in outdoor environments.

  • Cut to Length by the Foot: Order only the exact span length needed for your project, eliminating jobsite waste and unused spools.

Technical Specifications: Shepherd 6-6 Duplex Overhead Service Cable

  • Application: Overhead secondary power drops (120V single-phase), temporary jobsite power feeds, and outdoor/street lighting runs.

  • Code Word: Shepherd.

  • Voltage Rating: 600 Volts Maximum.

  • Phase Conductor Size & Stranding: 6 AWG (7-strand 1350-H19 Series Aluminum).

  • Neutral Messenger Size & Stranding: 6 AWG ACSR (6 Aluminum / 1 Steel Strand).

  • Messenger Breaking Strength: 1,190 lbs.

  • Insulation Material: Black Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLP).

  • Insulation Thickness: 0.045 inches (1.14 mm).

  • Nominal Outer Diameter: 0.48 inches (12.19 mm).

  • Approximate Cable Weight: 78 lbs per 1,000 ft.

  • Ampacity (90°C XLP Conductor): 85 Amps.

  • Ampacity (75°C Poly Conductor): 70 Amps.

  • Compliance & Standards: ASTM B-230, ASTM B-231, ASTM B-232, ICEA S-76-474, RUS Accepted.

Common 6-6 Duplex Overhead Cable Applications

  • Overhead Utility Service Drops: 120V aerial power runs from utility pole transformers to residential weatherheads or outbuildings.

  • Temporary Construction Power: Rugged overhead power delivery for temporary meter main poles and jobsite distribution panels.

  • Outdoor & Street Lighting: Reliable aerial runs for municipal street lamps, parking lot lighting, and security perimeter lights.

 



Technical Note: All values are nominal and subject to industry tolerances and manufacturer corrections. Specifications are subject to change without notice. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify that all materials meet the specific requirements of the project and comply with local electrical codes.

Ampacity Reference: Based on conductor temperature of 90°C for XLP (75°C for Poly), 40°C ambient temperature, 0.9 emissivity, and 2 ft/sec wind in full sun. Reference applicable NEC articles for site-specific installation guidelines.

 

See Full Specifications

See Full Specifications

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 6 AWG
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Strand Count 7
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) 0.48 in.
Conductor Count 1
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (XLPE) Cross-Linked Polyethylene

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600
Ampacity Rating 85
Submersible No
Sunlight Resistance Rating Yes
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards ASTM B-230 Aluminum 1350–H19 Wire for Electrical Purposes
ASTM B-231 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum 1350 Conductors
ASTM B-232 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Coated-Steel Reinforced (ACSR)
ASTM B-399 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum-Alloy 6201-T81 Conductors
ICEA S-76-474 Neutral-Supported Power Cable Assemblies with Weather-Resistant Extruded Insulation Rated 600 Volts
RUS Accepted
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction *Designated sizes are ACSR 6/1, diameter, equivalent resistivity per ASTM B399 for 6201. **Conductor temperature of 90ºC for XLP, 75ºC for Poly; ambient temperature of 40ºC, emissivity 0.9; 2ft/sec. wind in sun.

Usage & Installation

Primary ApplicationsOverhead Electrical Service
Common Uses
  • Residential Power Supply
  • Commercial and Industrial Power Supply
  • Temporary Service for Construction Sites
  • Outdoor Lighting
  • Secondary Distribution Between Poles.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 0.078 lb

Shipping and Returns

Shipping and Returns

General Shipping Information

In-stock orders placed before 3pm EST typically ship within 1-2 business days. Our business days are Monday through Friday; we do not process orders on Saturday, Sunday, or major US Holidays.

You will receive an e-mail with a tracking number within 1-2 business days from the time its shipped. You will also be able to view your order status and tracking numbers in your account order history.

Expedited Shipping

Expedited shipments are delivered Monday-Friday except on US Holidays. The order must be placed before 12pm CST to ship same day ( Mon-Fri Only).

Returns

You have 30 days from the day you receive the item to contact us for a return. Returns are subject to a 30% Restocking Fee.

Please contact us at help@wireamerica.com to request a return authorization. Have your order number or name the order was placed with ready and we will email you an RMA (return) number and instructions for return. Currently, we do not offer exchanges. A new order must be placed if you need a different item. If you provide the new order number at the time of your return request, the restocking fee may be lowered.

Orders on any items with a material value of $50 or less are non-returnable.

Aluminum Duplex Service Drop Cable

Wire America | Wire Flexibility Series

This video shows the flexibility, size, jacket detail, conductor material and stranding of the 6 AWG Shepherd Aluminum Duplex Service Drop Cable.

6-6 Duplex Aluminum Overhead Service Drop Cable (Shepherd)

Parent SKU :  SHP-2SDP

SKU :  SHP-2SDP-250

600 VOLT SUNLIGHT RESISTANT XLPE JACKET WITH BARE NEUTRAL MESSENGER.
In Stock
Ships in 1-2 days

Parent SKU :  SHP-2SDP

SKU :  SHP-2SDP-250

$153/ea.
$304/ea.
$605/ea.
$0.62/ft.
Please select an option
Min: 100 ft., Max: 10,000 ft.
Spool (250 ft.)
$153.00
Please select an option
Maximum reached, contact us for custom orders
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  • Competitive Pricing
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Get Product Details

Get Product Details

"The industry standard for 120V overhead utility drops, outdoor lighting, and temporary jobsite power. Engineered for dependable 600V aerial power delivery, this 2-conductor duplex cable features weather-resistant XLP insulation and a heavy-duty steel-reinforced ACSR neutral messenger built to withstand environmental strain."

Key Features & Benefits: 6-6 Duplex Overhead Service Drop Cable

The 6-6 Shepherd Duplex Cable is the go-to choice for overhead single-phase 120V secondary distribution. Built to bridge the gap between utility poles and weatherheads, it provides a stable, sag-resistant solution for overhead power drops, construction site temp power, and street lighting installations.

By utilizing 1350-H19 series aluminum conductors paired with a high-tensile ACSR neutral messenger, Shepherd duplex provides maximum physical strength with lightweight ease of installation. The cross-linked polyethylene (XLP) insulation offers extreme protection against sunlight, freezing temperatures, and environmental wear.

  • 600V Aerial Reliability: Rated for continuous 120V aerial service (up to 600V max) at conductor temperatures up to 90°C with XLP insulation.

  • High-Tensile ACSR Messenger: Features a 6/1 steel-reinforced ACSR neutral messenger delivering 1,190 lbs of breaking strength to prevent sag and withstand ice/wind loads.

  • Sunlight & Weather-Resistant XLP: Heavy-duty black cross-linked polyethylene insulation prevents UV degradation, cracking, and moisture damage in outdoor environments.

  • Cut to Length by the Foot: Order only the exact span length needed for your project, eliminating jobsite waste and unused spools.

Technical Specifications: Shepherd 6-6 Duplex Overhead Service Cable

  • Application: Overhead secondary power drops (120V single-phase), temporary jobsite power feeds, and outdoor/street lighting runs.

  • Code Word: Shepherd.

  • Voltage Rating: 600 Volts Maximum.

  • Phase Conductor Size & Stranding: 6 AWG (7-strand 1350-H19 Series Aluminum).

  • Neutral Messenger Size & Stranding: 6 AWG ACSR (6 Aluminum / 1 Steel Strand).

  • Messenger Breaking Strength: 1,190 lbs.

  • Insulation Material: Black Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLP).

  • Insulation Thickness: 0.045 inches (1.14 mm).

  • Nominal Outer Diameter: 0.48 inches (12.19 mm).

  • Approximate Cable Weight: 78 lbs per 1,000 ft.

  • Ampacity (90°C XLP Conductor): 85 Amps.

  • Ampacity (75°C Poly Conductor): 70 Amps.

  • Compliance & Standards: ASTM B-230, ASTM B-231, ASTM B-232, ICEA S-76-474, RUS Accepted.

Common 6-6 Duplex Overhead Cable Applications

  • Overhead Utility Service Drops: 120V aerial power runs from utility pole transformers to residential weatherheads or outbuildings.

  • Temporary Construction Power: Rugged overhead power delivery for temporary meter main poles and jobsite distribution panels.

  • Outdoor & Street Lighting: Reliable aerial runs for municipal street lamps, parking lot lighting, and security perimeter lights.

 



Technical Note: All values are nominal and subject to industry tolerances and manufacturer corrections. Specifications are subject to change without notice. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify that all materials meet the specific requirements of the project and comply with local electrical codes.

Ampacity Reference: Based on conductor temperature of 90°C for XLP (75°C for Poly), 40°C ambient temperature, 0.9 emissivity, and 2 ft/sec wind in full sun. Reference applicable NEC articles for site-specific installation guidelines.

 

See Full Specifications

See Full Specifications

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 6 AWG
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Strand Count 7
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) 0.48 in.
Conductor Count 1
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (XLPE) Cross-Linked Polyethylene

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600
Ampacity Rating 85
Submersible No
Sunlight Resistance Rating Yes
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards ASTM B-230 Aluminum 1350–H19 Wire for Electrical Purposes
ASTM B-231 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum 1350 Conductors
ASTM B-232 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Coated-Steel Reinforced (ACSR)
ASTM B-399 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum-Alloy 6201-T81 Conductors
ICEA S-76-474 Neutral-Supported Power Cable Assemblies with Weather-Resistant Extruded Insulation Rated 600 Volts
RUS Accepted
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction *Designated sizes are ACSR 6/1, diameter, equivalent resistivity per ASTM B399 for 6201. **Conductor temperature of 90ºC for XLP, 75ºC for Poly; ambient temperature of 40ºC, emissivity 0.9; 2ft/sec. wind in sun.

Usage & Installation

Primary ApplicationsOverhead Electrical Service
Common Uses
  • Residential Power Supply
  • Commercial and Industrial Power Supply
  • Temporary Service for Construction Sites
  • Outdoor Lighting
  • Secondary Distribution Between Poles.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 0.078 lb

Shipping and Returns

Shipping and Returns

General Shipping Information

In-stock orders placed before 3pm EST typically ship within 1-2 business days. Our business days are Monday through Friday; we do not process orders on Saturday, Sunday, or major US Holidays.

You will receive an e-mail with a tracking number within 1-2 business days from the time its shipped. You will also be able to view your order status and tracking numbers in your account order history.

Expedited Shipping

Expedited shipments are delivered Monday-Friday except on US Holidays. The order must be placed before 12pm CST to ship same day ( Mon-Fri Only).

Returns

You have 30 days from the day you receive the item to contact us for a return. Returns are subject to a 30% Restocking Fee.

Please contact us at help@wireamerica.com to request a return authorization. Have your order number or name the order was placed with ready and we will email you an RMA (return) number and instructions for return. Currently, we do not offer exchanges. A new order must be placed if you need a different item. If you provide the new order number at the time of your return request, the restocking fee may be lowered.

Orders on any items with a material value of $50 or less are non-returnable.

Video thumbnail
Aluminum Duplex Service Drop Cable

Wire America | Wire Flexibility Series

This video shows the flexibility, size, jacket detail, conductor material and stranding of the 6 AWG Shepherd Aluminum Duplex Service Drop Cable.

Physical Specifications

Wire Size (AWG/MCM) 6 AWG
Conductor Material Aluminum
Conductor Type Stranded
Strand Count 7
Outer Diameter (OD) (in/mm) 0.48 in.
Conductor Count 1
Shield Unshielded
Insulation Type (XLPE) Cross-Linked Polyethylene

Technical Specifications

Voltage Rating 600
Ampacity Rating 85
Submersible No
Sunlight Resistance Rating Yes
Temperature Rating 90ºC
Standards ASTM B-230 Aluminum 1350–H19 Wire for Electrical Purposes
ASTM B-231 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum 1350 Conductors
ASTM B-232 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum Conductors, Coated-Steel Reinforced (ACSR)
ASTM B-399 Concentric-Lay-Stranded Aluminum-Alloy 6201-T81 Conductors
ICEA S-76-474 Neutral-Supported Power Cable Assemblies with Weather-Resistant Extruded Insulation Rated 600 Volts
RUS Accepted
Miscellaneous Information All values are nominal and subject to correction *Designated sizes are ACSR 6/1, diameter, equivalent resistivity per ASTM B399 for 6201. **Conductor temperature of 90ºC for XLP, 75ºC for Poly; ambient temperature of 40ºC, emissivity 0.9; 2ft/sec. wind in sun.

Usage & Installation:

Primary ApplicationsOverhead Electrical Service
Common Uses
  • Residential Power Supply
  • Commercial and Industrial Power Supply
  • Temporary Service for Construction Sites
  • Outdoor Lighting
  • Secondary Distribution Between Poles.

Packaging & Dimensions:

Weight per Foot 0.078 lb

Have Questions?

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Call Us.

(833) 268-8644

Email Us

Shepherd 6-6 Duplex cable is designed for 120V single-phase aerial power supply. It is primarily used to run overhead service drops from utility poles to building weatherheads, power outdoor or street lighting runs, and provide temporary overhead power feeds for construction sites.

No. Duplex cable contains only two conductors (1 insulated phase wire + 1 bare neutral messenger), which powers single 120V circuits. If you need a 120/240V service drop for a main house electrical panel, you will need a 3-conductor Triplex cable (such as 6-6-6 Voluta) that includes two insulated phase wires and a bare neutral.

The bare messenger wire acts as both the neutral conductor and the structural support wire that holds the cable in the air. Shepherd uses an ACSR (Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced) messenger, which features a steel core strand surrounded by aluminum. This steel core provides superior high-tensile breaking strength (1,190 lbs) to prevent line sag over longer span distances and withstand heavy wind or ice accumulation.

No. Duplex service drop wire is engineered strictly for overhead aerial applications. Its XLP insulation is weather- and sunlight-resistant for outdoor exposure, but it is not rated for direct burial or underground conduit installation. For underground service runs, use URD (Underground Residential Distribution) cable or USE-2 wire.

#6 AWG Duplex with XLPE (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) insulation is generally rated for up to 85 Amps in free-air overhead installations at 90°C conductor temperature. Always consult NEC Table 310.17 / local code requirements and equipment terminal ratings to ensure proper sizing for your specific voltage drop and load.

Yes! At Wire America, all overhead service drop cables are custom cut to your exact required length—eliminating extra spools and wasted footage. Simply enter your required footage to order, and we’ll cut, process, and ship your order directly to your shop or job site from our regional distribution centers located throughout the US. Standard orders typically arrive within 2–4 business days, with expedited shipping options available at checkout.

Call Us. Icon

Call Us.

(833) 268-8644

Email Us