[RE-wrenches] aluminum wire failure photos

[R Ray Walters]

We don't often get to take picture, as the point of failure is hard to find, and the entire underground line is just abandoned and a new cable is installed.
Most failures I've seen (not actually seen) were on improperly installed runs, done by DIYers.
On the other hand, the majority of underground service in New Mexico is done with direct burial Aluminum, and if done correctly (buried deep enough, bedded in sand, no rocks), it's not so bad. 
My regular suppliers don't even carry big copper, as the Al is so much cheaper, and comes in triplex, and 4 plex cables, but it's dry there.
In Hawaii, you see much more copper, so I think it all depends on the conditions, both above and below the ground.

R. Walters
ray at solarray.com
Solar Engineer




On Aug 21, 2010, at 2:48 AM, bob wrote:

> Does anyone have any photos of aluminum wire that has failed? Failures from nicked insulation and such would help.
> I have a debate going with a customer who does not believe that it could cause a failure.
>  
> If you have any digital pics please send them to my address, reellison at gmail.com instead of to the list.
> I know there are some out there somewhere….
>  
> Thanks,
> Bob Ellison
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