AL Feeder Termination Requirements

[publicgood]

Below is the requirement. Does someone have an example of the product needed to terminate on compression lug or adapter at breakers and MLO panels?

1. Aluminum conductors, sizes #4/0 AWG and larger, with the following conditions:
   1. Feeders only – no aluminum conductors for branch circuits.
   2. Aluminum alloy conductors shall be compact stranded conductors.
   3. Aluminum conductors shall terminate on a compression lug or compression adapter.
   4. Oxide-inhibiting joint compound must be applied on the aluminum conductor during termination.
   5. No copper-to-aluminum transitions permitted.

 

[infinity]

You can something like this pin adapter to terminate the AL on a circuit breaker.

 

[kwired]

Below is the requirement. Does someone have an example of the product needed to terminate on compression lug or adapter at breakers and MLO panels?

1. Aluminum conductors, sizes #4/0 AWG and larger, with the following conditions:
   1. Feeders only – no aluminum conductors for branch circuits.
   2. Aluminum alloy conductors shall be compact stranded conductors.
   3. Aluminum conductors shall terminate on a compression lug or compression adapter.
   4. Oxide-inhibiting joint compound must be applied on the aluminum conductor during termination.
   5. No copper-to-aluminum transitions permitted.

Does #5 by chance mean no direct copper to aluminum transitions, but listed methods of transition is acceptable?

 

[Coppersmith]

Oxide-inhibiting joint compound must be applied on the aluminum conductor during termination.

I suggest applying the compound prior to terminating. Doing it during termination will require precise timing and additional hands.

 

[kwired]

I suggest applying the compound prior to terminating. Doing it during termination will require precise timing and additional hands.

What about connecting devices that are pre-filled with compound?

 

[mjf]

Is there a termination lug that isn't compression?

 

[kwired]

Is there a termination lug that isn't compression?

I think "compression" is what they call crimped on termination and set screw style lugs are called "mechanical"

Other possible options (though maybe more for copper than aluminum) are soldered/welded.

 

[mjf]

I think "compression" is what they call crimped on termination and set screw style lugs are called "mechanical"

Other possible options (though maybe more for copper than aluminum) are soldered/welded.

hahaha.... Thanks.....me brain wasn't working after midnight!!:slaphead: