Combine aluminum and copper wiring is correct

It is often necessary to perform a continuation of the old wires (which in most cases aluminum) by a compound of copper and aluminum wire. They just bolt them together categorically it is impossible. So let's learn how to do the job as efficiently and competently.

Why can not I connect aluminum and copper directly?

The first reason why it is impossible to perform such a compound is the difference in the conductivity of metals, it would lead to the compulsory heat conductors in place of their connection.

The second reason is that in the place of contact metal oxide film is formed, which also causes additional heating. A with significant heating wire insulation begins to sag and this may cause a short circuit, and later to fire.

What are the different ways to connect

At the moment, there are only three options for such connections, namely the use of vago- connector, terminal block transition and bolting.

Vago connector

This type of connection, at first glance, it seems the most effective, simple and reliable. After all, you can choose absolutely any connector for conductor cross-section and connects it to the disgrace, simply clean up the insulation, insert the ends into the slots and snap fasteners.

But in all this splendor, there is one major drawback, though the manufacturer and writes that the compound designed for long-term increased load, but experience has shown that they often overheat and just go out of service. Therefore, this compound can be used for maximum illumination.

transient terminal blocks

This type of connection considered above deprived of drawbacks and is fairly reliable connection view. But it is not without its drawbacks. The main drawback is that when a significant difference between the cross section of wires to connect them is simply impossible. The rest is very robust and durable connection.

bolted connection

This type of connection is completely devoid of the shortcomings of their predecessors. Here, I do not care what the diameter of the aluminum or copper conductor. The only drawback is that the resulting compound is quite large and it is not always possible to hide the junction box.

Having studied this material, you learned how to connect copper and aluminum wires. But remember, if you have the opportunity, it is better to completely replace the old aluminum wiring on a copper.