EMT & AL

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Alwayslearningelec

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NJ
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Estimator
Is there an issue attaching EMT to aluminum wire duct? Not sure as the metals are different. I don't think there should be as I'm sure there's been EMT attached to an aluminum device box before.
 
Are there conditions such as moisture or salt spray which would tend to cause corrosion?

Connecting steel to Aluminum is a no-no if there is moisture which can cause a galvanic cell. But no moisture? No problem. (If there are large temperature swings there might also be an issue; but we are not talking about Aluminum and steel circuit _conductors_.)

-Jon
 
winnie said:
Are there conditions such as moisture or salt spray which would tend to cause corrosion?

Connecting steel to Aluminum is a no-no if there is moisture which can cause a galvanic cell. But no moisture? No problem. (If there are large temperature swings there might also be an issue; but we are not talking about Aluminum and steel circuit _conductors_.)

-Jon
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Unless you're in Arizona, that's not likely to fly. Aluminum oxide is hygroscopic, so it's going to provide a nice source of adsorbed water to power that galvanic reaction.
 
horsegoer said:
Is there an issue attaching EMT to aluminum wire duct? Not sure as the metals are different. I don't think there should be as I'm sure there's been EMT attached to an aluminum device box before.
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Should not be much of an issue since the EMT is zinc plated. The clamps holding the EMT to the wireway are probably zinc plated as well.

About the only issue I could see is the fasteners holding the clamps to the wireway. Use SS and you should be fine.
 
winnie said:
Are there conditions such as moisture or salt spray which would tend to cause corrosion?

Connecting steel to Aluminum is a no-no if there is moisture which can cause a galvanic cell. But no moisture? No problem. (If there are large temperature swings there might also be an issue; but we are not talking about Aluminum and steel circuit _conductors_.)

-Jon
Click to expand...
No it's inside electrical closet.
 
There is no issue with aluminum and steel together under normal conditions. Aluminum conduit is run directly into steel boxes and panel enclosures everyday. Steel straps and strut are use to secure aluminum raceways everyday.
 
Don't forget some couplings and connectors for EMT are made of AL too.
 
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