12 Jul
2005
12 Jul
'05
6:18 p.m.
>>>> "curt" == curt <@ Atari
Museum" <curt at atarimuseum.com>> writes:
curt> I assume because its such a soft metal. I wonder what the max
curt> load/heat threshold on 12guage Aluminum vs Copper would be
Rule of thumb is that you need the next step up in wire size (2 gauge
numbers down) compared to copper for the same current rating.
Aluminum is used because it's cheaper than copper for a given current
rating. Also (in overhead lines) because it's lighter.
If carefully installed with correct devices, it's supposed to be
fine. If it's just a run from the transformer to the main breaker,
that isn't too tough a requirement, and in any case the splices are in
a steel box. The trouble starts when you run it all over the house,
and have the job done by an incompetent bum with a license.
paul