Copper vs. Aluminum Lugs: Which One is Better?
Wire lugs or terminators are used to end a wire and to make a proper connection. The material of the lugs depends on the current rating and the type of connection to be made. The two most common lug materials used are copper and aluminum. There are certain factors that need to be verified to understand the specific requirement and understand the difference between copper and aluminum lugs!
Factors to differentiate
1.
Connection
tensile strength
The tensile
strength depends on the weight of the wire and the way a connection is made.
The tensile strength will determine the malleability of the lug material. The
wires should be well-connected to the terminal of an electrical junction. The
use of copper and aluminum is determined by the strength of the connectors required.
2.
Voltage
It is
obvious that electricity passing through a conductor will produce heat. The
heat can increase considerably depending on the voltage requirement of an
electrical connection. This is where the lug material is chosen based on the
melting point of the conductor element. The melting point of aluminum is less
than copper. The conductivity of copper is higher than aluminum too. Despite
the fact, aluminum is used most of the time for strength and prices.
3.
Affordability
The
affordability of the material regarding the project requirement will determine
whether copper or aluminum
lugscan be used for the purpose. Aluminum is more
affordable than copper.
4.
Corrosion
resistance
It also
depends on the atmospheric condition where the electrical connections are done.
Electrical terminals need to be strong and corrosion resistant. Hence, the
surrounding condition of electrical junctions should be considered to find the
most efficient option!
Verdict
These are
the factors that show the difference between aluminum lugsand copper lugs. In
most cases, aluminum is used for better results and affordability!
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