Followup; why do you use aluminum?

[paul32]

Thanks for the replies on using copper or aluminum in residential. I'm still wondering what the reasons for using aluminum are.

 

[dlhoule]

I wouldn't use aluminum wire anywhere, when given a choice.

 

[eric stromberg]

Last time i used aluminum was connecting Medium voltage switchgear to the secondary of a 10 MVA transformer. The engineer specified 4 2000Kcmil per phase. I would have much rather used copper.

Eric

 

[electricmanscott]

Kind of a non issue these days.

 

[iwire]

Kind of a non issue these days.

BINGO!

Aluminum conductors today are not the same alloy they where when they got the bad rap.

I do not believe there was ever an issue with AL in large sizes.

Also keep in mind that the power companies distribute with AL conductors without issue.

All that said, most of our jobs are specified copper per the engineers.

 

[memyselfandI]

As a preference I would much rather use copper. However, sometimes aluminum is a more practical and cost effective way to distribute power. All the necessary preparations should be taken to ensure that you terminate it correctly. I have had more problems with the smaller size Aluminum than the larger sizes.

 

[George Stolz]

"Some other reason": Option 1, 2, and 3.

 

[izak]

i guess i have been taught to be biased against aluminum..

intellectually i know its not bad wire but..

i donno

i wont use it

 

[electricmanscott]

So nobody can actually say why they won't use aluminum. :?

 

[Minuteman]

I just don't like it. I may use it as TriPlex or URD, but would not consider using it for branch circuits.

A lot of apartments 'round here built in the 70's 7 80's have it. The service entrance conductors are always working themselves loose. Might be the changing temperatures in Spring & Fall. I prefer to change it out. Less headache.