Power Cables Copper VS. Aluminium

[TheeyaN 10+ year member]

How big is the diffrence between full copper cables and the ones that are mixture of copper and aluminium?

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[gunz4me 10+ year member]

Aluminum wire is cheaper than copper and that is about the only reason for its existence. It also offers a higher resistance level than copper, so you are better off going overkill if you must use copper clad aluminum as your power wire. Lastly, in residential and commercial establishments, aluminum wire has been noted for being a fire hazard //content.invisioncic.com/y282845/emoticons/eek.gif.771b7a90cf45cabdc554ff1121c21c4a.gif

 

[TheeyaN 10+ year member]

It also offers a higher resistance level than copper, so you are better off going overkill if you must use copper clad aluminum as your power wire.

Can u explain this? I dont think i understand?

 

[Plutoman 10+ year member]

The resistance is higher in aluminum wires versus copper wires. Hence, less amps can freely flow through the same sized wires before the wires heat up.

Essentially, you can use less copper wire than you would need aluminum for the same results. Or more aluminum than you would need copper, if you prefer to look at it that way.

 

[gunz4me 10+ year member]

Can u explain this? I dont think i understand?

Or in layman's terms.... If you need 4 gauge copper wire to meet your maximum current draw you would be better off going with 1/0 if you must use copper clad aluminum.

 

[TheeyaN 10+ year member]

Tnx for the answers =) I get it now =))