The NEC did change the alloy of acceptible aluminum wire in the late 70, early
80 time frame but it is still legal if you follow all the rules. The problem is
that devices that are OK for aluminum push the cost up to the point that is is
not as atttractive and there is still the bad reputation. The new alloy is also
harder to work with than copper. Original aluminum was very soft and easily
shoved into a box. That was one reason electricans jumped on it. Outragous
copper prices in the 70s was the other. Copper is still a lot more forgiving of
a sloppy installer.
On 20 Dec 2004 17:44:25 GMT, snipped-for-privacy@aol.com (Greg) wrote:
I have used it, it breaks easily when wrapping around a screw, all the
fixtures cost 5 or more times the price, and it's still not the safest
stuff. I try to get rid of it if at all possible, particularly for
any heavy load circuits such as the kitchen counter outlets and air
conditioner. It usually works ok for simple lighting.
They came out with copper clad AL in the late 70's. I still wonder
how they managed to stop bi-metal corrosion. it still cracks easily,
but is much safer.
Basically, it was a mistake and should never heve been allowed.
Actually I belive it wasn't banned. Service wires are still
alluminium. Although I think every manufacture has eliminated making
small diameter wire, because they expose themselves to lawsuits
everytime a drunk brother-in-law can figure out how to use wire nuts.
later,
tom @ www.FindMeShelter.com
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