Aluminum wire was commonplace in residential building construction between the mid-1960s and the late 1970s as copper costs rose. Aluminum is a very good conductor, but its physical properties present specific problems that may result in overheating, connector failure, and even fire hazard if not handled well. The article discusses the unique probl

When joining aluminum and copper conductors in electrical circuits, employing the right kind of lug is important to making a reliable and durable connection. Aluminum and copper differ in their electrical and chemical properties, which may cause galvanic corrosion, overheating, and ultimate failure of the connection if not controlled. Al/Cu (alumin

Galvanic corrosion is a prevalent but usually neglected problem when connectors of different metals are utilized. When two dissimilar metals are in contact with an electrolyte (e.g., water), an electrochemical reaction is initiated, and the less noble metal corrodes. In electrical systems, it can cause connections to become weaker, raise the resist