Knowing the Risks of Aluminum Wiring Hazards
There are a number of risks involved when employing aluminum wiring for the facility. Therefore, a fully qualified inspector is such a necessity to minimize any incidents, especially when repairs should be done. During such times, there is big chance of exposure to electrical failure.
As much as possible, such hazards must be minimized. Thus, the properties of these aluminum conductors as well as the manufacturing changes should always be taken into consideration. Even the new compounds are quite risky.
Aluminum alloys belong in the 1000 series category. These are about the same as pure aluminum. When copper is added as the major alloying element, it belongs in the 2000 series and when manganese is used, it belongs in the 3000 series. Zinc, magnesium, silicon and a combination of the last two elements have other series designations.
One of the most common issues in the use of aluminum wiring is oxidation. When an oxide layer rapidly forms on the conductor, a high electrical resistance also surfaces. A barrier on the surface of the conductor forms during this phenomenon and with the blockage of any additional oxygen, further oxidation is prevented. However, it is the electrical resistance of the oxide layer that presents trouble when employed in electrical distribution. It is very high and even higher in heated environments. Thus, the aluminum oxide becomes an electrical insulator.
The issue with oxidation worsens when fretting corrosion occurs. The compound formed by the interaction of the aluminum with other metals is affected by corrosion and erosion problems. This results to oxidation and a high electrical resistance.
Like all materials, failure will result soon after the aluminum wiring is used for a long time. Once a splice or termination is made with the conductors, there is a disturbance with the oxidation layer and this permits ample current flow. The electrical resistance of the connection will gradually increase when the layer reforms.
This behavior is affected by the rise in temperature that results to thermal expansion. This occurrence also contributes to fretting corrosion and loosens up the connection. With the elevation of the temperature, the insulation covering the conductors is damaged. Thus, there is a fault to the receptacle box or grounded enclosure as with contact with other conductors.
There are still many industrial facilities that use massive aluminum conductors for the electrical distribution. Even with all the risks involved, the application determines the susceptibility to failure. That is why an informed and thorough inspection of these materials is very important.
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