[RE-wrenches] AL wire with DC

[Drake Chamberlin]

Aluminum wire got its bad name during the era when it was use in 15 
and 20 amp circuits, with #12 and #10 wire.  That stuff is a 
nightmare.  As an electrician that has cleaned up some of the messes, 
I can supply ample horror stories.

#2 and larger sizes of AL work fine.  It is important to use 
antioxidant on the connections.  Separate copper wire from aluminum 
using a listed splicing device.

Aluminum wire will turn to white powder in an underground cable where 
the insulation has been breached.  This is true for DC or AC.



  At 05:51 PM 7/26/2010, you wrote:
>I have used AL wire in DC circuits for 30 years and have never had a 
>problem. If you carefully follow the protocols for working with AL 
>you should have the same experience. As pointed out the cost 
>difference can be staggering. I'm designing an o-t-g 3kW PV system 
>now that has this array 1300' from the batteries, AL is the only 
>reasonable answer.
>
>
> From the Solar, Wind and Hydro powered office of Jeff 
> Oldham/Regenerative SOLutions
>
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Drake Chamberlin
Athens Electric
OH License 44810
CO License 3773
NABCEP TM  Certified PV Installer
Office - 740-448-7328
Mobile - 740-856-9648  
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