Abstract:Abstract: Taking UHVDC transmission line project in heavy icing area for example,the differences in electrical performance, mechanical characteristic and total life cycle economy between aluminum - alloy conductor medium - strength steel reinforced and aluminum - alloy conductor high - strength steel reinforced are analyzed. It shows that,aluminum - alloy conductor medium - strength steel reinforced has significant advantages in saving electric energy,reducing power loss and annual cost etc, which is suggested to be extended in UHVDC transmission lines in heavy icing area.