Is aluminum that bad?

[One-eyed Jack]

Here's Southwire's "spin" and it identidies the alloys.
http://www.southwire.com/support/ALBuildingWire30YrsOfReliability.htm

Having been around in the 60's when the aluminum problems became apparent I still don't trust it in sizes smaller than #2. If Southwire gave me the wire I would not use it .

 

[jwjrw]

I always pull copper for branch circuits. I have no problem using AL for feeders. I think new Al is great but copper is a better conductor.

 

[macmikeman]

I use #4 AL ser for range feeders and larger sizes for services. Been using it for over thirty years and so far so good.

 

[dduffee260]

we use the Series 8000 AL for feeders. As long as it is terminated and sized properly I do not see anything wrong with it. We have been using it since the copper crazyiness about 4 years ago. Not a call back yet.

 

[mmenagh]

the new stuff is compact al and you should use pentrox it stops the exposed al from oxidizing prob spell that wrong