Pros and Cons of Copper and Aluminum Electrical Conductor

An electrical conductor is anything that can be used as a medium for moving electric charges. In general chemistry, we were taught that metals are good conductors of electricity. This makes them a leading component in the creation of wires and other electrical supplies. However, not all metals have the same characteristics, and hence conduct electricity in different rates. Here is a brief comparison of copper and aluminum electrical conductors.

Copper Conductors- Pros

Less incompatibilities. When two metals are merged and become an alloy, there is a possibility that a galvanic action would commence, leading to corrosion and the subsequent destruction of aluminum. This is the reason why it’s not good for aluminum and steel to interact with each other in very high temperatures. However, copper is essentially compatible with every other kind of metal, which reduces the risk of any corrosion in high temperatures.

No surface oxides. Metals by nature are prone to oxidation. Oxidation is the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen. In layman’s terms, oxidation leads to corrosion and rusting. This is why most metals need to be treated with anti-oxidants to prevent them from corroding. Copper is not prone to corrosion.

More familiar. Because copper is perceived as the “safest” electrical conductor, it is endorsed to be used by more electricians. Because of this particular bias, electricians are more familiar with copper than they are with substitute metals like aluminum. So when it comes to wiring, electricians are better equipped to wire copper conductors than aluminum ones.

Copper Conductors- Cons

Price. The only inhibiting factor of copper is its price. Copper is less abundant that aluminum. If you’re strapped for cash, then best go with aluminum.

Aluminum Conductors -Pros

Inexpensive. Being the most abundant in the earth, there’s a lot of aluminum that can go around for industrial needs. Because there is no problem with the supply, the production of aluminum wires and consequently aluminum conductors is more efficient compared to copper. Because of this, aluminum conductors are sold cheaper in the market. Especially in the 1960’s when the prices of copper became steeper, aluminum conductors were a staple in every household.

Physical properties. Aside from the economic aspect, the reason why aluminum conductors are popular is because aluminum by nature is more flexible and lighter than copper. This means that contractors can work with aluminum more freely than they would with copper.

Aluminum Conductors- Cons

Tendency to expand. Aluminum conductors that are not installed or manufactured properly run the risk of expanding with increased thermal load. This results in loose connections, overheating, and the merging of the aluminum conductor and steel screw terminals to create alloys.

Increased house insurance premiums. Because of the safety hazards that aluminum poses, most insurance companies charge a higher premium for houses that use aluminum wiring. Owners of aluminum houses either have to endure that or upgrade their home to reduce the risk of fire.