Aluminum vs. Copper Conductors

As plant facilities become more expensive to construct and maintain, the necessity of looking to alternative materials becomes increasingly critical to cost-conscious builders. One of these alternative materials, aluminum wire, has drawn much attention lately in the construction industry, especially as copper prices increase and the aluminum market remains steady. Price alone is a compelling argument for considering modern aluminum conductors. At the time of this research, one can expect to spend approximately 3.5 to 5 times more on copper wire than aluminum wire. It's no wonder that more engineers are examining the possibilities and functionality of aluminum wiring.

Today, aluminum conductors are already being used efficiently, and their use is widespread within the construction industry. This wire is currently successfully installed in many industrial applications. In utility applications, aluminum has a long-standing track record; it continues to provide substantial performance in commercial and institutional applications. Aluminum is also being used more frequently in heavy commercial facilities. MC cable with aluminum feeders is becoming a staple in many high-rise buildings, stadiums, shopping malls, commercial buildings, wastewater treatment facilities, and manufacturing facilities. Contractors install them in service entrance conductors, large conductors, and power distribution conductors. These various uses demonstrate that choosing aluminum is not a 'novel' concept; instead, it is a useful, high-performing material.