[Lowfer] Al Wire as a loop conductor

[Scott Tilley]

Hi Stan

Certified neutral supported (NS) cable is required to be UV resistant to 
meet UL/CSA standards as the conductors in the bundle are in intimate 
contact with each other.  Weather/abrasion is also something that is 
tested and standardized.

Most manufactures ensure that BLACK conductors larger than #6AWG have UV 
resistance jackets, check their catalogs/datasheets...  Coloured 
conductors should be assumed NOT to be UV resistant.

With CSA certified conductors the rating 'SUN RES' may even be printed 
on the conductor insulation itself.

Now, depending on the local regulatory environment cable from the supply 
authority may not be certified.  However, if its a bundled NS drop you 
can bet that it meets the UV and weathering requirements or you'd have 
fires and service outages all the time.

The key to successful use of AL cable as a loop is ensuring the 
terminations are protected from oxidation.  After that enjoy the lower 
price and lighter conductor...  When I bought mine it was 4:1 in both 
price and weight vs CU.

73 Scott
VE7TIL









On 11/4/2011 5:44 PM, Stan, W1LE wrote:
> The 000 gauge aluminum stranded service drop wire, as a single conductor,
>    may not be UV rated for use in the sunlight and weather.
> In other words the insulation may deteriorate in a hurry,
> leak water, and the acid rain will corrode the aluminum strands.
> May even act like LITZ wire after a long time.
> Be sure to treat the end compression terminals with NoAlox.
>
> I say try it ...  before I do.....Let me know the results.....
>
> I would sooner try 2.0" OD aluminum tubing (6061-T6) bent into the shape
> needed....
> Splice the mill lengths with a undersized telescoping piece.
> Maybe use a Harbor Freight tubing bender/roller for a full circle with
> multiple mill lengths...
> 8 each mill lengths of 20' would make a 50' diameter round loop.
> Then all you need is a 60' insulated tower or possibly a tree.
>
> Pondering....
>
> Stan, W1LE     Cape Cod    FN41sr
>
>
>
> On 11/4/2011 8:28 PM, K2ORS wrote:
>> Hi,
>>       I am considering using Aluminum service drop wire (3/0 gauge) as a conductor for an LF transmitting loop. I know that the conductivity is not as good as copper but it weighs so much less that I can use a larger diameter conductor.
>> Has anyone tried this? How would it hold up when flexed by the wind ? Other thoughts?
>>
>> 73 K2ORS
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