Aluminum vs. copper in new switchboard

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winslowfam

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VA
Hi...we have a client who is planning to replace a 480 volt 1200A switchboard. We usually specify copper bus on projects like this one, but the client is able to save about 20% if we specify aluminum bus. I know of some historical reasons for not using aluminum, but I'm not sure they still spply today. Is aluminum in switchboards still a possible source of problems long term?
 
Aluminum vs. copper busbar in new switchboard

Aluminum vs. copper busbar in new switchboard

Hi...we have a client who is planning to replace a 480 volt 1200A switchboard. We usually specify copper bus on projects like this one, but the client is able to save about 20% if we specify aluminum bus. I know of some historical reasons for not using aluminum, but I'm not sure they still spply today. Is aluminum in switchboards still a possible source of problems long term?
 
For the majority of installations, I have not demanded copper bus for several decades.

Unless there are atmospheric reasons or high cyclical loading (i.e. welding), a bolted aluminum connection can be as reliable as a copper one,
 
Properly made up, aluminum connections are okay in larger sizes. Just follow the directions.
 
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