Aluminum vs. copper in new switchboard

[winslowfam]

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?

 

[winslowfam]

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?

 

[jim dungar]

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,

 

[LarryFine]

Properly made up, aluminum connections are okay in larger sizes. Just follow the directions.

 

[winslowfam]

thank you for your answer. I appreciate it.

 

[winslowfam]

thank you for your help