Quote Originally Posted by 300A
Why anyone would pass aluminum wire as safe is beyond explanation.

When aluminum wire was allowed, many structures used them, with passing inspections, and fire resulted. Spring loaded connectors etc. aren't the long answer as corrosion will eventually cause problems, plus more contact points. Aluminum just isn't that good.

I for one would never use aluminum wire unless Forced to.

Positron
Either you didn't read what I wrote or you just don't want to listen. As for using aluminum today, you aren't allowed to. The risk of someone who is not trained or skilled as an electrician or an electrical engineer making what could eventually become a fatal mistake is too great.

Aluminum was useful because it was a cheaper than copper and in trained hands a satisfactory alternative. I think most or all high voltage feeders in use are aluminum. BTW, they use different alloys today which are much harder and therefore don't have the same shortcomings as those used in the old days. Aluminum is also light and strong, a major consideration for long runs of heavy overhead cables.