Aluminum wires - why electricians don't like them so much

Almost everyone knows that it is better not to use aluminum in home wiring. Even in the special literature, the use of aluminum conductors is allowed with a cross-section of cores from 16 sq. mm and above. But still, why is aluminum in such disgrace (although all the Soviet wiring was carried out by him), let's figure it out.

Aluminum - what are you

As you know, the electrical conductivity of aluminum, in comparison with copper, is two times lower. But, by and large, there is not so much bad in this, because it is enough to take an aluminum wire of a larger section. And the problem of supplying a unit with a certain capacity will be solved.

Moreover, aluminum is both lighter and cheaper than copper, so the installation of cables with aluminum conductors according to certain structures will be much easier.

Also, aluminum has an extremely high corrosion resistance and it seems that this also has a big plus, but this is not entirely true.

And all because the oxidation of aluminum and the formation of an oxide film (which does not allow aluminum to oxidize further) is formed almost instantly.

What are the problems with aluminum

And the problem lies in the fact that this particular film has extremely low conductivity.

For this reason, electrical contact with aluminum is a place of increased contact resistance. In addition, aluminum is a rather soft material and screw clamps, where the aluminum conductor is clamped, must be pulled periodically.

If the connection of the aluminum wires is not done well enough, the connection point will become very hot, which will lead to the destruction of the insulation and a quick short circuit. And in the most unfavorable outcome, all this will lead to a fire.

In addition, aluminum itself is a rather fragile material and does not tolerate frequent bending and unbending, so there is a rather high probability of breaking the core (especially in modern aluminum).

Due to these two significant disadvantages, aluminum is limited in use both in electrical installations and at home.

And what are the advantages of aluminum

Of course, aluminum has its advantages too. And, perhaps, the main plus is its price. Yes, aluminum is used in power circuits (all wires of high-voltage transmission lines are made of aluminum). That's because it's cheap.

But, perhaps, in the near future, not entirely aluminum, and its new alloy will again be actively used in the home network. Personally, in my opinion, I'd rather overpay and take a good copper wire than use aluminum (even if it is from a miracle of alloy).

Write in the comments, how do you feel about aluminum wires. And if you liked the material, then do not forget to put your thumbs up and share the article on your favorite social networks. Thanks for attention!