CU to AL Feeders

[mstrlucky74]

GC asking for deduct to go from CU to Al feeders. I know lugs for equipment must be dual rated but are there any other concerns to be aware of/factored in when considering this swap? Thanks

 

[augie47]

Sure, for a given amperage feeder, AL will be a larger conductor and might require a larger conduit.

 

[mstrlucky74]

Sure, for a given amperage feeder, AL will be a larger conductor and might require a larger conduit.

Aware of that. Was concerned with issues apart from the conduit and feeders.

 

[augie47]

Aware of that. Was concerned with issues apart from the conduit and feeders.

There are other issues to consider but I will assume you are aware of those

 

[kevin]

GC asking for deduct to go from CU to Al feeders. I know lugs for equipment must be dual rated but are there any other concerns to be aware of/factored in when considering this swap? Thanks

Aluminum conductors are perfectly acceptable in nearly every application. They have even been installed in both fresh and salt water marinas, and have operated safely and successfully for many years. I am unaware of any negative concerns about installing aluminum feeders, if that is the essence of your question.

 

[Joe Villani]

I would also add to make sure the lug kits on breakers and switches can accept the larger sized wire.

From my experience the lugs supplied (for your larger breakers and switches) will go up to 500kcmil. When changing to Aluminum from copper you might be pulling 600s and 750s.

Make sure your breakers and switches accomodate the increased wire size.

Joe Villani

 

[JFletcher]

Job spec. I asked the same thing today. The city wants Cu, they get Cu. No Al feeders, even tho in this case they'd save about 8k in material cost.

 

[Sierrasparky]

Job spec. I asked the same thing today. The city wants Cu, they get Cu. No Al feeders, even tho in this case they'd save about 8k in material cost.

Aluminum will continue to have a bad rap. That is until there is no money to pay for copper.